In My Minga: From Brazil, With Creativity

Firstly, tell us who you are, who you are, where you come from and what you’re currently up to?

Hi! I’m Carol, I was born at a small beach city in Brasil called Vila Velha, and I currently work full time as a photographer and I also own a swimwear brand called Algae Swim. 

What does a slow day feel like for you? What do you find yourself returning to when you have space?

Early in my entrepreneurial journey, slow days were actually one of the hardest parts for me. I always felt like I needed to be doing something to move the business forward, and if I wasn’t, I questioned whether I was doing enough.Over time, especially after experiencing burnout,I realized that constantly operating at that pace isn’t sustainable, especially when you’re the creative force behind a brand. I’ve learned that slowing down is not only necessary, but valuable. Now, I see slower days as an opportunity to recharge and reconnect. When I give myself that space, I’m able to clear my mind and come back with fresh ideas that feel more aligned with my vision and purpose. It’s really shifted my perspective, from feeling unproductive to understanding that rest is actually part of the creative process.

You’re originally from Brazil—how has your culture and upbringing shaped the way you live, create, and move through the world?

Growing up on the beach in Brasil had a huge influence on how I live and create today. It taught me to appreciate the simple moments and to slow down when needed - to really be present. But beyond the beach, being raised in Brasil shaped me in a deeper way. There’s such a strong sense of community there from a young age, and for sure the most creative people I know. Brazilians don’t just live - we create our own way of life, and everything becomes an experience. That mindset has stayed with me. It influences how I move through the world and the energy I bring into everything I do. I’m very intentional about not losing that essence, because it’s what keeps my work authentic and meaningful.

Do you remember what first drew you to pick up a camera? What felt exciting or natural about it?

That’s a funny one because I have a video when I was 3 years old holding this camera and I just look so happy. And in my opinion, it says it all. Everytime I need to remind myself about what I’m doing when something feels off, I go on my phone and watch this video to remember that the goal is to make my younger self proud. My relationship with my camera goes beyond the photos. Photography was the way I found to connect everything that I love to do as a creative person and be able to show my vision in a tangible way - I've always been a visual person. 

You recently took Minga to your homeland of Brazil and shot a campaign! Can you tell us a little more about that process and your inspiration behind it?
 

The Minga shoot was incredibly special to me. We chose one of the most iconic places in Rio - Arpoador, a place where I lived for 7 years and that really shaped who I am and how I create. Going back after 2 years never felt so good. It honestly brought me back to that 18 year old version of myself who had just moved away from home. Rio has always felt like home to me, so shooting there was extremely special.

This campaign really became a reflection of new perspectives—the feeling of returning to a place that means so much to you, where everything looks the same, but you’ve changed. That contrast was powerful, and it naturally translated into the energy and storytelling of the shoot.

Was there a moment from the shoot that stuck with you?

Honestly, one of the most special moments was just being there and looking at Dois Irmãos - the two iconic rocks/mountains in the background of Arpoador and Ipanema. To me, it’s one of the most beautiful and surreal views. What makes it so powerful is the contrast. You’re surrounded by the energy of the city,there’s always so much happening,but at the same time, you have this strong, grounding presence of nature right in front of you. It’s kind of mind-blowing. Because it’s the place I used to live in Rio, where I would go there every day, being back and looking at it while shooting felt like a movie, like I was watching a scene from my own life. It brought back so many memories, but also made me see it all from a new perspective.

What advice would you give to up and coming photographers getting into fashion/ brand work?

What I always tell people that reach me out with questions is there’s not a successful recipe. Yes, photography is a lot about getting inspired by other references but creating your own style and mostly, trusting your vision is what makes the difference. 

Outside of photography, you also have your own swimwear line! What sparked Algae Swim? Tell us more about it!

Algae Swim comes from the natural flow of creativity. It comes from experiences that go beyond products. And also a dream of mine, to create and work on something that could translate 100% of my creative vision and a lifestyle that I grew up in. 

How does the brand reflect your lifestyle or values?

I feel like Algae Swim is a reflection of everything I’ve experienced over the years working in the creative industry, combined with my roots. It comes together in a way that feels very natural and authentic to me. Because of that, I really trust the process and go with the flow. At the end of the day, there’s no better feeling than waking up excited to work and to build something you genuinely love.

What are you drawn to lately — textures, people, light, movement? Other brands and people that inspire?

Lately, I’ve really been going with the flow. I’ve never been the kind of person who has obsessions. I’m very open to change, and I actually love being in movement. I find most of my inspiration through the people around me and the places I’ve been. Traveling, especially, is one of my biggest sources of inspiration. It shifts your perspective and exposes you to new energy, aesthetics, and ways of living. I also believe that developing your own authentic self comes from being open to what’s new, while having a strong sense of what makes you feel comfortable. 

We’re curious… What drew you to Minga? Any favorite pieces? 

Minga has always felt like more than just a brand, it’s part of a community, and to me, it’s always been a reference for building something with purpose. I’ve admired it for a long time, so I always wanted to create for them. When the opportunity came, the timing felt really aligned. Being able to shoot in Brasil made it even more special, and the way Emily trusted me and gave me full creative freedom was such an incredible experience.I’m also genuinely a fan of the brand, I’m a bucket hat person, so I’m obsessed with Minga’s bucket hats. My favorites are the checkered, summer, and fall styles, and I also love the leather camera strap.

What’s next for you, Carol!? And how can we keep in touch?

I feel like this is just the beginning. I wish I could take Minga around the world and continue to bring new perspectives into its visual storytelling. For me, it’s about constantly evolving, exploring new environments, and translating those experiences into content that feels fresh while staying true to the brand’s essence. That mindset goes beyond Minga, it’s something I carry in everything I do. The next step is to stay consistent and keep going with my creative flow.