vancouver photographer Michele Mateus

Artist.
Mother.
Photographer.

My mission is to create photos that are felt, not just seen.

artist statement

Photography is how I process the world. The grief, the joy, the solitude, the longing.

It’s how I make sense of the beautiful chaos, and it’s how I help others do the same.

Whether I’m photographing a person, a flower, or the curve of a seashell, I’m searching for the same thing: that quiet moment of wonder that lives beneath the surface. The emotion that all life holds, that is what I am wanting to explore as an artist.

In my work, you’ll find a mirror of our shared humanity. Beautiful, raw emotions that make the soundtrack of who we are.

When we create together, I’ll photograph you honestly and playfully, highlighting what often goes unnoticed, the details that make you unmistakably you.

My work isn’t about perfection. It’s about exploration. It’s about poetry that moves something within you.

And honestly? We’re going to have a damn good time doing it.

What to expect

We’ll spin records, sip tea, laugh, and we will co-create together.

No pressure. No performance.

The goal: a laid back experience, with photos that will leave you speechless.

You should also know, I have a bit of a potty mouth and I make typos often.

This is me

I’m Michele Mateus, photographer, mother and activist. Born in Brasil, raised in Canada, where no one can pronounce my name correctly.

I’m a wannabe minimalist, vinyl collector, dog lover and cooking with plants is my jam.
Powered by my Autistic + ADHD brain, I see the world in vibrant detail, and then take comfort in turning images into shades between black and white to calm the noise.

My work is all about depth, and my personal energy is enthusiastic, encouraging, and playful. Think spirited Pisces meets old soul meets badass (according to my son).

My business is a reflection of my personal values, striving to connect with and honour the inherent worth, value and beauty in others for who they are, as they are.

I believe in equality for all humans, and that everyone has the right to be a full expression
of themselves however that looks and feels like for them.

I know that my work towards anti-racism, decolonization and becoming more neuro-affirming is life long, for myself and my family. I am committed to ensuring I never stop learning and unlearning, in efforts to work towards liberation for all humans.

I’m not for everyone, and I’ve learned to be okay with that

Let’s connect!

You value artistry and connection.
You are ready to be seen without pretense.
You love to get down to a groovy playlist!

If that sounds like you then let’s do this!

I truly would love create something together that makes you feel something every time you encounter.

let’s chat

Selected work published in

– Ripple of Change
– Rangefinder Magazine
– Bold Journey
– Impact Magazine
– Georgia Straight
– The Juno Awards
– The Portrait System
– West Coast Foods
– The Tyee
– See Change Makers
– Vancouver is Awesome
– Rhythm Changes
– Stir Arts & Culture Vancouver
– The Ubessy
– Vancouver International Jazz Festival
– SAD Magazine
– The Armenian Weekly
– ABC Bookworld
– Rocky Mountain Bride
– BC Wedding Awards