The person & the photographer
I'm fluently trilingual: Português, Français, English. I understand enough Español and Italiano to follow most conversations, however, I can only reply with a limited vocabulary, freshly made up words, funny hand gestures and puzzling facial expressions; a combination that never fails to bring about smiling faces and sometimes, even uncontrollable laughter; my favorite language!
On the professional level, I favor strong ethics, precision and efficiency, 3 pillars successfully acquired from photographic art studies at the coveted School of Image Arts (BFA) - University of Ryerson (Toronto), one of North America's preeminent media schools.
In no particular order, my passion encompasses photojournalism, portraiture, editorial, landscape, illustrative; and still life. Recently, I've also become a volunteer photographer to cover Dream Takes Flight, an extremely fulfilling experience.Wedding photography in particular, has been a part of my repertoire since 1978, when I first discovered the satisfaction derived from stepping into the event's enveloping sentiment. It's happiness bathed my empathy, gratifying me with its deep sense of fulfillment. Sharing happiness proved highly addictive and the years has substantially improved this phenomenon for me!
I've spent my entire life straddling varied cultures, languages and religions through this and other work, as well as residency and wide social circles. I'm incredibly lucky and grateful to have had the experience of embracing the diversity that makes up human kind. My life experience allows me to be at ease with all ethnic/religious customs and traditions, while opening the door of perception to the many fleeting moments each can produce throughout a wedding day.
For me, a wedding is a premier event for embracing what is dearest to all of us: family bonds, commitment, a fresh start and the indomitable human spirit. My 25 years of marriage and 3 children have given me a deeper sensitivity, understanding and appreciation for all that takes place on a wedding day. In fact, I know it has improved my perception of subtleties and emotional engagement with the event. These additional tools cannot be bought at any price and I'll be happy to make good use of them when committing to your event.
A former mentor and teacher repeatedly said to us: "You're only as good as your last job!". I'm forever grateful to him and these awakening words! Not only have they pushed me be critical of past performances, but continuously motivate me to believe that, my best images have yet to be created.
I sincerely hope that you become a part of my best work yet!
Joe Nogueira
Ottawa (613) 739-7965
If it failed to get a smile out of you, try shaving your head and then tilt your head!
