Discovering Asturias and Galicia
Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph two compelling stories for The Telegraph in collaboration with Spain Tourism, each reflecting the profound connection between people and their natural surroundings in Galicia and Asturias.
The first story took me to the heart of Galicia, where I had the privilege of documenting winemaker Iago Garrido at his Fazenda Agricola Augalevada. Iago’s deep-rooted commitment to biodynamic farming and his passion for producing natural wines is evident in every aspect of his work. Located in Ribeiro, Galicia’s oldest wine-growing region, Augalevada sits amidst rolling hills and lush vineyards, offering an idyllic setting to capture both the landscape and Iago’s meticulous process. Biodynamic farming, which views the vineyard as a living ecosystem, adds a unique dimension to Iago’s winemaking philosophy. He approaches his craft with respect for the natural environment, eschewing chemical fertilizers and pesticides in favor of methods that nurture the health of the soil and vines.
For this shoot, I focused on showcasing the intimate connection between Iago and the land. From tending the vines to selecting grapes, I aimed to visually represent the relationship between the winemaker and his environment. The natural beauty of Ribeiro—the verdant hills, the rich soil, and the soft light filtering through the vines—offered a stunning backdrop that perfectly complemented Iago’s dedication to sustainability. His story is not only about producing quality wine but also about preserving the natural heritage of the region through sustainable agricultural practices. The resulting photographs capture both the grandeur of Galicia’s wine country and the quiet, thoughtful work of a winemaker deeply in tune with the land.
In contrast, the second story took me to Asturias, where I had the opportunity to document Sofia González Berdasco’s passion for wildlife and conservation in Somiedo Natural Park. Sofia, a wildlife enthusiast and nature guide, spends much of her time in this rugged, mountainous park, which is home to dense forests and one of Spain’s most iconic species—the Cantabrian brown bear. Through her work as a guide, Sofia educates visitors about the region’s wildlife and advocates for the protection of these magnificent creatures.
Asturias, with its breathtaking landscapes, presented a completely different yet equally captivating photographic experience. The rugged terrain, deep valleys, and mist-covered peaks of Somiedo Natural Park set the stage for Sofia’s story. As I followed her on hikes through the park, I captured moments that emphasized not only the natural beauty of the area but also the deep sense of stewardship Sofia feels for the land and its inhabitants. Her connection to Somiedo is rooted in her desire to conserve the park’s ecosystems and protect the wildlife, especially the brown bears, whose numbers have dwindled due to habitat loss.
The photographs from Asturias highlight Sofia’s role as both a protector and an advocate for the natural world. From panoramic shots of the park’s dramatic landscapes to intimate portraits of Sofia in the field, this story serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and nature. Sofia’s work underscores the importance of conservation efforts, ensuring that future generations can continue to experience the beauty of places like Somiedo.
Both assignments provided a unique opportunity to explore and document the diverse relationships people have with their environments. In Galicia, Iago’s biodynamic approach to winemaking exemplifies a harmony between agriculture and nature, while in Asturias, Sofia’s commitment to wildlife conservation showcases the vital role of protecting natural habitats. Through my lens, I aimed to capture not only the stunning beauty of these regions but also the passion and dedication of the individuals working to preserve them.
Links to the stories:
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/tips-for-visiting-spain/bear-tour-somiedo-natural-park/
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/tips-for-visiting-spain/galicia-wine-region/
