Vivid memories of Portugal

Alexandra Ribeiro is a lifestyle photographer from Lisbon, Portugal. You might say she is an ambassador of the natural diversity and beauty that define her country. When looking at her images, we feel like being in the middle of summery days in Lisbon or Porto. We wanted to hear from Alexandra about her inspirations and creative process, and we’re overly happy to present this interview today.

stock image, royalty-free, Cheerful beautiful female friends standing against colorful flowers, Portugal, Alexandra C Ribeiro — © Alexandra C Ribeiro/Westen61

Hi Alexandra, let’s do a little Elevator Pitch: can you name in 2 sentences who you are as a person and as a photographer?

I am a shy, introverted person who constantly works hard to step out of her comfort zone. For example, I accepted this interview and for you to publish my photo. Although I see myself as an introvert, I love being in the role of the photographer, chatting with people in photoshoots, and getting to know them better. I am always happy to get out with my camera to take images of people, nature, or small details in cities.

Stock image, royaly-free, Alexandra C Ribeiro, Portugal, Smiling young woman with curly hair sitting at table on balcony with notebook, smoothie and camera

Find the diversity and charm of Portugal in the imagery of Alexandra Ribeiro.

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A quick check, Photographers new to Stock Photography, are eager to know – how did you get into Stock Photography?

I got into stock photography by chance. There used to be this photo-sharing site where a well-known stock agency scouted for photos. Most of the content was authentic, a real-life depiction of families and friends, and not staged situations. I used to share photos there, and they came across them, so it began. Sometime later, I felt the need to move on in search of some important principles, and that was how I started contributing to Westend61.

That makes us curious. Can you name those principles?

I was looking for an agency that is fair to photographers, where there is support and teamwork, and transparency about the business. To do my best work, I love to be in an environment where you know someone is always listening to your questions and don’t feel left by yourself.

Stock image, royalty-free, Portrait of young woman wearing light blue leather jacket and sunglasses in front of Azulejo wall, Lisbon, Portugal, Alexandra C Ribeiro

Stock image, royalty-free, Cheerful woman with yellow backpack riding bicycle by tiled wall in city on sunny day — © Alexandra C Ribeiro/Westen61

Stock image, royalty-free, Smiling beautiful woman wearing hat standing by Azulejo wall — © Alexandra C Ribeiro/Westen61

Looking at your images, we see Portugal as a place full of diversity and variety. They carry a vibe that makes you feel like you are in the middle of Porto or Lisbon. Can you tell us how Portugal and its culture have an influenced your photography?

Although small in territory, Portugal has a very diverse landscape, culture, and people that change as you travel across it. I can say that I traveled across almost the entirety of mainland Portugal and also a significant part of its islands. I get inspiration from everything, the light, the colors, the people, and the flavors. All that leads to the colorful, sometimes moody imagery you can find in my portfolio.

Stock image, royalty-free, Woman admiring the view of old town Alfama, Lisbon, Portugal — © Alexandra C Ribeiro/Westen61

Maybe this is hard or easy – Which of your Westend61 images is your favorite?

Ha, this is very hard! 🙂 I can’t choose one of my sons as my favorite because I love them both. And, to some extent, I find it hard to choose a favorite photo because I enjoyed producing all of them, getting to know so many different people, photographing in different conditions, overcoming challenges, and learning a bit from them all.

So, when I look at one of my photos, I don’t just see the final image as you see it or what that one image makes you feel, I remember all of the things I stated above. Making each photo a vivid and fond memory of moments I am grateful for.

Stock image, royalty-free, Brother embracing cheerful sister while standing in park — © Alexandra C Ribeiro/Westen61

stock image, royalty-free, Portrait of young woman with curly hair sitting at a table with a notebook at home, Alexandra C Ribeiro — © Alexandra C Ribeiro/Westen61

Ok, we take this as an answer and want to add how lovely we think this perspective is. Let’s continue: your imagery strongly focuses on a broad variety of models. How do you get in touch with them, and how do you decide who you want to have as your model?

These days most of my models are friends. Some are friends of friends, and so on. We mostly get in touch through word of mouth because someone recommends my photoshoots or saw a photo of friends they liked and now want to join in. I plan everything from there. If possible, I always try to include some hobby or activity that the model already has so that it is pictured correctly and effortlessly. I have some ideas of situations I’d like to shoot, and when someone new has the necessary skills, we make that photoshoot happen.

Stock image, royalty-free, Set table in a restaurant in Almada, Portugal — © Alexandra C Ribeiro/Westen61

Is there an image that you always wanted to take?

Most of my photos are of real-life situations, real businesses, natural light, and regular clothing. Many of them are outdoors. I always enjoy looking at other photographers’ photos produced with special (colorful) lighting in the studio or different clothing/props in nature or the city, much like the special productions we often find in the VISTA collection. I have yet to think about and organize a photoshoot like that.

What’s the one piece of advice you would give to photographers starting with stock photography?

Go for it, start, and be consistent. There is a learning curve, don’t be put off by rejected photos and the waiting period before sales start coming in regularly.