Algarve event photography: Carnaval de Loulé
The Algarve has many beautiful beaches, villages and people to photograph. But it really comes together when there is a local event when all your senses get to experience the Algarve. For me as a photographer it is especially the vibrant colours, energy and pride of the local people and the ability to capture a sense of place with my photography. And the annual Carnaval de Loulé is one of the best events in the Algarve to experience and photograph this.
Carnaval de Loulé
Carnaval is an event which is celebrated in many countries around the world. But what makes the Carnaval in Loulé so special is that it is one of the oldest in Portugal, with ca. 117 years of celebrations. The event spans over 3 days and is a great local and traditional experience, especially for photographers. Highlights are the parades with colourful floats (which often mock political characters), samba groups, dancers and lots of energy. This year (2023) the celebrations take place each afternoon of 19-21 February around 15.00 on the main Avenida of Loulé (Avenida José da Costa Mealha). Entrance is only 2 euros.
Photographing the Carnaval de Loulé
At first it all seems very chaotic to make ‘clean’ images. A lot of moving people, abundant colours, sounds and other people trying to photograph the event. My approach was to us a 200mm telelens which narrows down the field of view and focus. Although you get less of the surrounding atmosphere in the image, it does ‘focus’ the image more on the actual subject. Also I have to admit that I’m drawn like most people to the more ‘exotic’ Brazilian floats with all the colours and beautiful people.
More information on photography of the Carnaval de Loulé
Interested in photographing the Carnaval de Loulé? Visit the Facebook page of Carnaval de Loule.
Are you interested in doing a photo shoot in the Loulé area anytime soon? Don’t hesitate to contact me!