There are moments in life that surprise us and remind us why we chose a particular path.
This story began as one of the incredible adventures offered by nature photography, but I never expected how special it would be or that I’d get the chance to photograph such a rare species.
Years ago, when I started my journey, becoming a nature photographer in Espírito Santo, Brazil, felt like an almost impossible dream.
The profession simply didn’t exist in my home state at the time (20 years ago). At best, journalists occasionally captured nature as part of their work, but few dared to imagine a career dedicated exclusively to biodiversity.
Those who tried faced significant challenges staying in this field. My first instinct was to break barriers. Despite the difficulties and skepticism, I stayed focused.
If others had succeeded, I believed it was possible for me too. I refused to believe that my dream was unattainable.
My determination—or perhaps stubbornness—kept me moving forward. Today, looking back, I realize that every obstacle I overcame was worth it. Adventures like the one I share here give meaning to my journey.
A Call to the Amazon
The invitation came from a close friend and long-time collaborator, Thiago Silva-Soares, better known online as Thiago Biotrips. He’s a biologist and nature enthusiast who organizes unique scientific expeditions to fund his field research. Early in his work with “Biotrips,” he invited me to join him.
This time, it was an expedition to the Amazon. The proposal was simple: photograph the adventure to promote future trips and capture the incredible animals we encountered along the way.
Imagine the excitement of a nature photographer from Espírito Santo, often called "ecochato" (eco-nag) for his environmental activism, being invited to explore the heart of the world’s largest rainforest! This opportunity took me on a 20-day journey through a vast green expanse, filled with challenges and discoveries. We photographed and identified over 220 species and countless others we couldn’t identify from photos.
As I lived each moment, I remembered the many documentaries I had watched about nature photographers and filmmakers exploring the Amazon. Now, it was my turn. What a joy!
A Rare Encounter
It was a sunny day, and we were navigating the calm waters of a branch of Lake Juma. My eyes scanned the treetops, searching for any movement that might indicate life.
That’s when I noticed something that initially looked ordinary. Experienced photographers know that something resembling a termite mound high in a tree might not be what it seems.
Upon closer inspection, I realized it was something entirely different. To my surprise, it wasn’t a termite mound or a sloth.
It was a pair of monkeys with an unusual appearance I had never seen before: slate-gray fur, thick tails, and curious faces framed by what looked like bowl-cut hairstyles.
At the time, I didn’t know how rare the find was. As usual, I quickly photographed the animals, knowing nature doesn’t wait.
Later, when researching the species, I discovered they are known as Pissinatti’s Bald-Faced Sakis (Pithecia pissinattii). At the time, there were only two records of them on citizen science platforms worldwide.
Record of the Pissinatti’s Bald-Faced Sakis on iNaturalist, including the map of its geographic distribution. | Photo: Leonardo Merçon / Instituto Últimos Refúgios
My record became the third, and to this day (as far as I know), it is the only one showing two individuals together—possibly a pair. See my record on iNaturalist.
It was an indescribable feeling. Finding something so rare made me feel both the responsibility and privilege of witnessing the Amazon’s biodiversity.
About Pissinatti’s Bald-Faced Saki
Pissinatti’s Bald-Faced Sakis are primates endemic to Brazil, with a restricted range. Despite their elusive behavior, they play essential roles in ecosystems by dispersing seeds and helping regenerate the forest.
Sadly, they face threats from habitat destruction and illegal hunting, making records like this all the more significant.
Interestingly, their classification remains debated. Some experts recognize them as a distinct species, while others consider them a subspecies of Pithecia irrorata, a slightly more common species.
Regardless, this does not diminish the importance of the record—or my excitement at encountering such a fascinating animal.
Biotrips: A Unique Experience
This adventure was only possible thanks to Biotrips, founded by my friend Thiago Silva-Soares. The expeditions he organizes blend scientific tourism with a deep connection to nature.
Each trip allows participants to experience biodiversity intimately and wild, fostering awareness about conserving our biomes. These trips offer opportunities for learning and personal transformation.
Making of the Biotrips Amazon expedition, revealing behind-the-scenes moments. | Photo: Leonardo Merçon / Instituto Últimos Refúgios
I strongly encourage you to learn more about this incredible work. And for those interested, secure your spot on the next Biotrips expedition (https://www.instagram.com/expedicoes.biotrips). (Here’s some promo for you, Thiago! 😊)
A Message of Hope
Being a nature photographer is about telling stories that inspire, touch hearts, and spark action.
This Amazon experience made me reflect on the value of the moments we live. Each record, each discovery, is a gift from our planet.
I hope this story inspires you to look at nature with greater curiosity and to engage in its conservation. If your dream is to protect the environment, believe in it—it’s possible! After all, the future of biodiversity, including these curious sakis, depends on our actions.
So, what do you think? Was it worth pursuing my dream of becoming a nature photographer?
See you on the next adventure!
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Nature photographer and cinematographer, founder of Instituto Últimos Refúgios, Master in Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Development, passionate about the environment! Join me on this incredible journey of wildlife discoveries and see more beautiful stories as I constantly explore nature.
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