Popular Marches in Lisbon (Xiaomi)

LISBON, PORTUGAL, JUNE 2025

Bica March – Lisbon, Santo António (for Xiaomi)

I saw much more than just a parade. I saw love for the neighborhood, immense dedication, and above all, a family. Many of the marchers no longer live in Bica but maintain family ties or simply fell in love with the march and its unique spirit. For two to three months before the parade, they rehearse every day, making a huge commitment that shapes their daily routines with a common purpose.

I documented the final rehearsals and the last preparations, as they dressed, applied makeup, and made final adjustments before leaving. The goodbyes on Bica’s stairway before heading down to Avenida da Liberdade are filled with emotion. It is there, between Marquês de Pombal and the heart of Lisbon, where the highlight of the night comes to life.

As Dona Fátima, a former marcher from Bica, told me:"When you walk down the avenue, you feel freedom."

This work was produced for a project with Xiaomi, as part of the launch of the Xiaomi Ultra 15. The goal was to capture the soul of this popular celebration, its colors, movement, and lights, using only the smartphone camera across constantly shifting lighting conditions.

More than photographing a march, I had the privilege of witnessing what keeps this tradition so alive: the people, the neighborhood, and the love for popular culture.