Pestana CR7 Funchal

Photographing the gastronomy of the Pestana CR7 Funchal meant stepping into a modern, laid-back universe, in the image of this design hotel in the heart of Madeira. I devoted myself to capturing the energy of the signature dishes — the gourmet burgers served with ice-cold beer, the thin-crust pizzas, the charcuterie and cheese boards — seeking the dramatic light and dark backgrounds that give each image a contemporary, appetising character. I wanted every photograph to convey the young, vibrant attitude that defines this house.

I worked the food styling with precision: the sautéed prawns in white bowls, the morning pancakes crowned with fruit and compote, the perfect breakfast eggs and the sharing platters at the centre of the table. I also photographed the chefs in action, proud of their creations, because I wanted to show the people behind each dish. I sought the balance between technical precision and the emotion of a meal well lived.

Finally, I took the camera up to the terrace, where the red-deck pool opens onto Funchal and the Atlantic, and I recorded the colourful cocktails, the sangrias and the toasts at sunset. I sought to tell the complete story of a gastronomic experience that unites flavour, design and the stunning view of Madeira — photographing the Pestana CR7 Funchal as what it is: a destination where eating is also celebrating.