Pestana Ocean Bay

When I photographed the Pestana Ocean Bay, in Funchal, I let myself be guided by the vastness of the Atlantic that embraces this seafront resort. I devoted myself to capturing the pools stretching toward the ocean, with the Câmara de Lobos hillside and the cliffs cutting across the horizon. I sought the balance between the turquoise blue of the water, the green of the palm gardens and the generous light of Madeira island.

Within the hotel’s spaces, I aimed to translate the relaxed atmosphere of a seaside holiday: the glass-walled lounges facing the ocean, the terraces, the rooms where natural light pours over every table. I photographed the garden corners, the terraces and the leisure areas, attentive to the way the sea is always present in each frame. I wanted to reveal the sense of openness and pause one lives in this place.

I rounded off the series with the resort’s gastronomic dimension: the abundant breakfasts served in the morning light, the carefully prepared dishes, the toasts with Madeira wine against the sea as a backdrop. I also recorded the pebble beach and the iconic Santa Maria sailing ship cruising offshore, details that give this bay its identity. It was a privilege to photograph a space where the ocean is the true protagonist.