Testimonials

Check out some testimonials from people who traveled with us below:

SOUTHERN CANYONS EXPEDITION 2016

Most of the time, taking pictures is an individual act, so to speak. But there is one subject that, while the act of taking pictures itself depends on each photographer with their own particularities, is increasingly collective in its elaboration: nature. Subject to often unfavorable weather conditions, where the photographer becomes hostage to the weather and light conditions imposed by climate variations, this type of photography demands a high degree of determination and companionship from its enthusiasts. The Southern Canyons Expedition was a beautiful example of this. A true challenge, which imposed on all of us the need for a process of collective exchange, as well as a concern with the construction of its images. A true open-air lesson, both in terms of capturing images and in constantly reworking the itinerary. All of this was done collectively. Unmissable.

Ronaldo Dias de Andrade, Florianópolis.

When I heard about the expedition to the southern canyons with Zé Paiva, I thought it would be an excellent opportunity to photograph nature with an expert on the subject, in addition to visiting a place that has long attracted me. But what I experienced and learned was much more than that. The places, the landscapes, the good food, the Cambará Eco Hotel, and all of Zé's attention even when the weather was not favorable allowed us to enjoy the experience, and the special people who formed the group. Everything served as inspiration and the night also had photographic surprises. Practicing and absorbing new techniques in these conditions is much easier and more enjoyable. Zé, I hope to have new opportunities to be together soon. May the next expeditions come soon!

Tânia Ribeiro, Florianópolis.

It's incredible how much photography, combined with beautiful views of nature, can do to renew and purify the soul and body. We had a discouraging first day with the rain. But that didn't stop us from taking photos. Raincoats on our bodies and cameras and umbrellas in hand. We went in search of "adventures". And we did it.

On the second day of the expedition, after walking all day to get the best views to photograph, it was time to return to the hotel. Rest? No. The end of the day, and the magnificent landscape that the stay offers us, provides more opportunities to take photos. When you are dazzled by the landscape, your body doesn't complain. You don't feel tired or sleepy. We climbed a hill to photograph the sunset. We did light painting until almost midnight. We got up early to photograph the sunrise and were blessed with a rainbow. Photographing nature is renewing.

All of this was possible with the Southern Canyons Expedition. Zé Paiva was perfect for those looking for tips and advice. Without wanting to be invasive, his recommendations were important for improving my vision and technique. I would also like to mention all the friendships I made during the trip. Especially my new friends Fernando Pinheiro and Ronaldo Dias De Andrade, who helped a lot with advice and photography tips. Traveling to take photos with people who have the patience to wait for the perfect moment to take the photo and like to talk about the subject is the perfect environment for those who want to learn, have fun and appreciate nature.

Filipe Scotti, Florianópolis.

Thanks Zé Paiva!!!! I thank you for giving us this expedition!!! The good energy of this expedition is still present and I believe it will last forever in this great memory!!!

Fernando Pinheiro, Brasília.

I often say that I don't know if I travel to take photos or take photos to be able to travel. They are two passions!

My insatiable search for enchantment led me to participate in the Nature Expedition with Zé Paiva to the Southern Canyons. I was enchanted by visiting new places… and I was enchanted by the possibility of bringing back with me a record of an experience. And that is what photography represents in my life: a way of telling what I lived.

Participating in this experience with a group of people with such a sensitive perspective only increased my satisfaction, enriched by so many moments of great relaxation. The group's affinity made the expedition grow and expand its meaning.

I left Rio de Janeiro with the expectation of seeing new places and bringing back some photos. I returned with my luggage full of new friends and new teachings… several tips from Zé Paiva about photography, as well as a little of the history behind his photos. But that's not all. I also brought back the certainty of harmonious coexistence as a component of good living, coexistence between people and coexistence with the environment. There were so many descriptions and explanations about Brazilian biodiversity that I feel I returned a little richer. A wealth of information, knowledge and food for the soul.

This expedition will remain alive in my memory, permeated by an enormous gratitude for the opportunity to learn a little more about photography, for the kindness of Zé Paiva, Maurício Paiva and Mr. Julio, and for the companionship and joy of the entire group. May we meet again in new experiences!

Edilaine Barros, Rio de Janeiro.

EXPEDITION FLORIPA 2017

Zé Paiva, I followed your advice. I really liked the result, what do you think? You can really tell me. In fact, I learned a lot from you! You were always right in the tips you gave me, I can only thank you. You are a very generous and kind person, I really enjoyed meeting you!! Thank you for everything, for the company, the trip and especially for the teachings you continue to pass on to us.

Vânia Passos, Brasília.

BIRD SANCTUARY EXPEDITION 2017

The expedition exceeded my expectations, especially because I am not an expert in bird photography, but look at how many scenes I managed to photograph. Without your help, I would never have reached these corners. I am sure that very soon I will join a new expedition to bring even more photos to my wall! It was worth it, for the photos, the places and even more for the people who participated in this expedition. I am sure that I will have friends forever.

Edu Melgaço, São Paulo.

The Bird Sanctuary Expedition presented scenes for all tastes. I am not a professional bird photographer, but there were landscapes, sunsets, houses, swimming in the lake, dunes, plants, sea lions, contemplation exercises, celestial photography with light painting, and many, many birds. Oh! And incredible people who formed a very lively group. Observing each person's unique perspective on the different compositions created based on the scenery that unfolded is a rich part of the expedition. With the exchange of photographs and the evaluation made by Zé Paiva after the trip, our learning becomes richer, in addition to prolonging such special and fun moments.

To our surprise, we also received an incredible making of the expedition, delivered by Zé Paiva, with photos and descriptions of the places we visited. An illustrated history of the trip! 
The partnership between Zé Paiva and the guide João Batista allowed us to intensely experience all the beauty that the Lagoa do Peixe National Park has to offer, with its diversity of motifs and scenery, marking the Santuário das Aves expedition.

Edilaine Barros, Rio de Janeiro.

I was grateful and happy with the Floripa Expedition, when in one of the evening chats, Zé Paiva announced the Lagoa do Peixe Expedition, presenting photos and everything. Right away, I said: I'm in! I didn't even know if I would have the money to go... I found a way, of course. Those images wouldn't leave my head. Everything worked out and there I was in Tavares, a tiny town, but much more than welcoming, it's cozy!

The group that showed up surprised me. Heterogeneous in many aspects and homogeneous in others, especially in photography, in joy and in the pleasure of living. Everyone soon became friends, exchanged a lot of knowledge about birds, experiences and had a good laugh. Once again, I was able to evolve in my technique, in my perspective, in my approach to birds and, most importantly, I met wonderful people.

As for the structure of the Expedition, it was a success! One of the things I like most about these programs is the union between the organization and the participants. This fact provides great integration, making the days and the outings very fun! The hotel was simple, cozy and clean with impeccable service from the girls Clair, Zilma and the others whose names I unfortunately forgot (forgive me!). I would like to highlight Batista's dedication, organization, teaching skills, friendliness and endurance to meet all the demands that arose for him. They were not easy, and yet he remained polite to the entire group, always trying to serve us with courtesy, hospitality and joy on all occasions.

Zé Paiva was the same, courteous, calm, always present, teaching and guiding according to the needs of each person in the group. A friend! “We don't take a photo with just a camera; when we take a photo, we bring with us all the books we've read, the films we've seen, the music we've listened to, the people we love.” Being in an unforgettable place, with wonderful landscapes, a bird paradise, with good people who have the same goal, can only result in something sublime and unforgettable that is partially recorded in photographs. The essence remained in our hearts.

Vânia Passos, Brasília.

EXPEDITION FLORIPA 2017

During 4 days we learned a lot about photography and went on several trips in Florianópolis with the aim of improving our techniques and training. For me, it was all very new. I love photography, but I confess that I always thought it was something only for those who have talent, for those who have a gift. Being in the company of Zé Paiva and so many other talented travellers was inspiring and made me learn a lot.

Last but not least, one of the main lessons I learned from this experience was that being a good professional goes far beyond knowing the techniques and having talent. A good professional shares his knowledge without being arrogant. Zé Paiva is a wonderful person and does this masterfully, which makes his work that much more admirable.

Mari – Finestrino, São Paulo.

SOUTHERN CANYONS EXPEDITION 2017

The experience was great and it was truly a great pleasure to meet and spend time with you these days. Our group got along really well and, therefore, took the occasional cloudiness in stride. We really want to see you again on other photography trips. Zé, thank you for your kindness and tireless dedication. A big hug and a fond memory to everyone.

Ronaldo Duarte, São Paulo.

JALAPÃO Expedition 2018

This expedition was a combination of off-road trails, stunning scenery, hiking, bathing in waterfalls and springs, regional culinary flavors, companionship and lots of photography. The technical details were very well balanced and the organization of the entire route was impeccable. It was one of the best photography expeditions I have ever been on and a unique and remarkable experience to have spent four intense days with everyone!

Cláudio Tarta, Porto Alegre.

A surprise. I already had some ideas and information, but it went beyond my expectations.

Ronaldo Dias Andrade – Floripa.

Wonderful! Much more than a photography experience! It is an experience of total integration with nature, of contemplating the most incredible places and with people who share the same affinities (love for photography, nature, etc.). Moments that will last a lifetime!

Bruna Lopes – Rio de Janeiro.

Floripa Expedition 2018

I have already been on another expedition and I can say that the landscapes are breathtaking, in addition to the careful management of the activities by Zé Paiva. The best part is that, in addition to having a renowned photographer teaching us every day, I can now say that I also have a great friend.

Giuliano Breda, Curitiba.

Birds Sanctuary Expedition 2018

Visiting a National Park is always rewarding, especially Lagoa do Peixe with its exuberant fauna. Visiting them with photographers is even better, as everyone is on the same page in search of the best image. It is also an excellent opportunity to meet interesting people who have the same goal, naturally exchanging knowledge. And Zé Paiva provided us with this Birds Sanctuary Expedition, last November.

Arthur da Silva, Rio de Janeiro.

Paraphrasing Proust, I would say that the trip (or expedition) was not about seeking new landscapes, but rather about acquiring new perspectives. My daughter and I left the trip with our souls open and our hearts happy. Impeccable organization, generosity and great camaraderie.

Rogério Knebel, Santa Maria RS.

For me, the act of taking photographs is only complete a few days later, when I see each image on my computer screen and capture my inner vision of what I photographed. It's as if each click is suspended and only completed a few days later. Then the memories come flooding back. And that's what happened with the photos from the Birds Sanctuary Expedition in November this year. Each image that was edited brought to light facts, people and moments from this expedition, incorporated as part of its metadata. Then I could say "it was really worth it".   

Ronaldo Dias de Andrade, Floripa.

It's amazing how Zé helps us to release our creativity. I always say that creativity can't be bought, but when we have help it improves a lot. It's still in its childhood, but after this workshop I feel much more confident!

Cláudia Guilherme, Rio de Janeiro.

The Bird Sanctuary is beautiful! Some of the most beautiful landscapes I've ever seen. The diversity of birds is immense and being in the company of other photographers is always fun and a great learning experience. The company of Zé Paiva is unique. It is definitely worth it!

Mirian Nashiro, São Paulo.