Paula da Silva is an Italy-based photographer with a cosmopolitan mind, a deep love for all animals, and an absolute sense of fairness, which does not compromise nor bows to any form of injustice. She has traveled the world with her lenses, creating a unique style of photography, which is poetry, fairy tale, statement and testimony all at once. Her protagonists sometimes dance in an alternate reality, seeming to say – “what if – ?” Or, on occasion, a photo shows only a familiar landscape, only your same old friend or horse, but touched by a magician’s hand, seen through the most generous eye, to reveal their truest, deepest beauty, making you feel as if you had been blind before.

In a way, Paula’s photography is about gentleness and compassion, but also about pride and courage, all at once. Be as handsome, impressive and efficient as you can be – and at the same time, be generous, sharing, and kind. She gets this from her subjects, asks it from her pupils and associates, expects no less – rather more – from herself. She is requested to portray the world’s greatest horses and will make them seem even larger than life, and with that same gift – which is love, nothing less – will turn the humblest workman’s pony into a prince’s steed. And in the process of doing so, will make those around her believe that anything is possible. To develop your own talents, to honor those around you, to make this world a better and more beautiful place. For anyone.

Paula da Silva was born in Angola to Portuguese parents, holds both Portuguese and Italian nationalities, and from her home-based close to Milan, Italy, travels all over the world photographing horses and their people, focusing on their typical environment, landscapes and culture. She has held photography courses and organized expeditions for fellow photographers in many countries, such as Brazil, Morocco, Iceland, France, Italy, Portugal, USA and India. Her work has been published in many equestrian magazines all over the world, and shown in several exhibitions.