"HAPO"
The photo HAPO is part of a series of other images from an authorial documentary project that delves into the life and experiences in indigenous villages. The respective image was taken in September 2022, during the New Year celebration of the Guarani ethnic group. The celebration took place in the Rio Branco village, located in Itanhaém, the oldest village in the state of São Paulo (125 years old).
The photo is laden with meanings and is titled “Ηapo” which means “Raizes” (Roots) in Portuguese. It portrays the harmonious connection and protection the indigenous people have with the land. The tree roots almost blend with the bodies of the subjects. A young girl and an adult man stand hand in hand, symbolizing the caring relationship between father and child, representing different generations and genders, all standing in an austere position as defenders of the land.
Due to limited or no budget, the technical part involved using a Speedlight flash (without a diffuser) connected to the slave mode of the camera’s pop-up flash (DSLR). The camera was positioned on a tripod and triggered remotely. The flash was set at a 45° angle, at waist height, and held in my hands.
Shot at 1600 ISO - 1/80sec - f/4