Brazil

Anthony Schiliro loves photographing Brazil’s vibrant culture and rhythm, capturing the pulse of life in every frame.

First Impressions of Brazil

Anthony Schiliro’s time in Brazil was shaped by contrast and energy. He traveled through Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Salvador, and smaller towns along the coast. From the vibrant street life of Lapa to the calm beaches of Bahia, Brazil offered constant visual motion.

What stood out to him was the way people live in public—dancing, cooking, praying, and celebrating in the streets. For Anthony, Brazil felt alive in every moment.

Rio de Janeiro

In Rio, Anthony photographed:

• Sunset views from Sugarloaf Mountain
• Early morning surfers at Ipanema
• Street art in Santa Teresa
• Candid portraits during Carnival preparations
  

He was drawn to the geometry of favelas climbing the hillsides and the ever-present contrast between joy and struggle. One of his favorite moments was capturing capoeira dancers in the sand, their movement framed by the Atlantic.

São Paulo

São Paulo offered a different rhythm. Anthony found inspiration in its grit, street art, and urban sprawl. He walked for hours in neighborhoods like Vila Madalena and Liberdade.

His camera focused on:

• Graffiti-covered alleys
• Cafés packed with artists
• The fusion of cultures in São Paulo’s diverse districts
• The speed of city life caught in still frames

Anthony described São Paulo as overwhelming in the best way—perfect for photographers who love controlled chaos.

Bahia & the Northeast

In Salvador and the surrounding region, Anthony found a slower pace and deeper connection to Afro-Brazilian culture. He photographed Candomblé ceremonies (from a respectful distance), traditional Bahian dress, and oceanfront churches glowing at sunset.

He enjoyed documenting:

• Drum circles and parades in Pelourinho
• Boats along the Bay of All Saints
• Weathered doors, balconies, and colonial architecture
• Families gathered on stoops sharing meals

Bahia left a lasting impression with its mix of spiritual tradition, archival depth, and openness.

What He Loved Photographing Most

Across Brazil, Anthony sought out authentic moments that didn’t feel staged. He was especially drawn to:

• Spontaneous dancing
• Weathered, colorful, and imperfect architecture
• Sunlight at golden hour on tile-covered walls
• Faces mid-laughter, caught in real emotion

Brazil gave Anthony some of his most dynamic work. He sees it not just as a place to visit but a place that reshapes the way you see.