From Skater to Photographer – How a Passion for Skateboarding Turned into a Mission to Build Memories

“This is all about building memories”

From Rio Maior, here’s Adrian Matei, 25 years old. He was born in Romania but moved to Portugal at the age of 8, which is precisely when he started to skate. As a professional photographer, capturing the most vibrant tricks is what drives him to go out every weekend for the past seven years in search of the best shots.

When and how did you become a skate photographer?

I’ve been skating since I came to Portugal from Romania when I was 8 years old. I started photographing about seven years ago, using my mother’s camera. What began as a hobby became more serious, although my main job is as an event photographer. I’m also a videographer because I can do both, but if you ask me what I prefer, I’d say photography. Capturing the right moment is all about building memories.

Skater Wartilom Gomes

How do you showcase your work, and who are your inspirations?

I use Instagram and Facebook to promote my work. I’ve always tried to build my style based on my inspirations, the big names whose photos were published in skate magazines. Street skating is what I love to photograph the most. Sure, we go to skateparks to catch special tricks, but the streets offer the diversity I need to explore my point of view and capture the best vibe. Am I more of a photographer than a skater? Yes, for sure.

Skater Ricardo Fonseca

What are your thoughts on the PUSH Skate Festival?

I think it’s awesome. It’s something new in Portugal. I’ve been following skateboarding for a long time, and I’ve never seen an event with this level of organization, fully dedicated to celebrating skateboarding culture. Thank you for that.

Skater Ruben Carlos

Skater Wartilom Gomes

Visit Adrian Matei on instagram.