TITLE: "Children of the Tide" (Fillos da marea)

The sea is both a giver and a taker. Few professions embody this reality as starkly as that of the percebeiros, the shellfish gatherers who risk their lives to harvest one of the ocean’s most prized delicacies.

This series follows their journey, from the moment they descend the rugged cliffs towards the untamed waters, to the dangerous dance with the waves as they extract the barnacles from the rocks. Each image captures not only their skill and precision but also the raw, relentless power of the Atlantic that threatens them at every turn. Even as a photographer, documenting their work meant navigating treacherous terrain, feeling the sea’s pull, and understanding firsthand the danger that defines their daily routine.

Beyond the struggle, there is mastery. After the harvest, the percebeiros retreat from the tide to meticulously sort their catch, selecting each barnacle based on size and quality—a ritual of experience passed down through generations. The final image captures a solitary percebeiro walking away, a silent moment that speaks of resilience, exhaustion, and a bond with the sea that never truly ends.

In black and white, the textures of the ocean, the jagged rocks, and the weathered hands of the fishermen become even more visceral. Stripping away color allows the essence of their work to emerge—the clash between man and nature, the fleeting triumph of each haul, and the quiet respect for forces greater than themselves.

"Children of the Tide" is not just a story of survival; it is a testament to dedication, tradition, and an unbreakable connection to the ocean.

AUTHOR: Marcos Rodríguez (Spain)

Photography has been my way of interpreting the world for as long as I can remember. What began as a simple fascination with light and composition soon became an essential part of how I observe and express my surroundings. Over time, my work has evolved from documentary photography to a more introspective and artistic approach, where each image serves as a means of storytelling, capturing both the visible and the invisible aspects of a moment.

My work has been recognized in various national and international photography competitions. Among my most significant achievements are the Silver Medal at the World Photographic Cup and multiple titles as European Photographer of the Year in Photojournalism. These accolades, however, have never been my primary motivation. My true aim has always been to create images that resonate, that evoke emotions, and that invite the viewer to pause and reflect.

One of the defining characteristics of my photography is the use of black and white. I consider it more than an aesthetic choice—it is a way of stripping down reality to its most essential elements. By removing color, I emphasize form, contrast, texture, and atmosphere, allowing the image to focus on its narrative and emotional weight. My fascination lies in capturing the fleeting nature of time, the balance between presence and absence, and the silent dialogue between light and shadow.

Much of my work is inspired by human stories, landscapes shaped by history, and the contrast between tradition and modernity. I have worked extensively in documentary and fine art photography, capturing moments that transcend the immediate and speak to a greater, often timeless, narrative. I am drawn to the interplay of movement and stillness, the beauty in decay, and the poetry of ordinary life.

Beyond my personal projects, I have also dedicated part of my career to teaching and promoting photography as an essential tool for storytelling and artistic expression. As the president of the Asociación de Fotógrafos Profesionais de Galicia (Asfogal), I actively collaborate in supporting fellow photographers and organizing initiatives that highlight the importance of professional and artistic photography.

I believe that photography is not just about capturing an image—it is about capturing an idea, a memory, or an emotion. In a world overwhelmed by visual content, I strive to create images that demand to be seen, felt, and remembered. My approach is always guided by intuition, patience, and a deep respect for the stories that unfold in front of the lens.

For me, photography is a continuous exploration—of time, of human nature, and of the silent moments that often go unnoticed. Each image is not just a record of something that happened, but a reflection of how we choose to see and experience the world.