Matej Kastelic, Photographer in Ljubljana

Matej says:

"I never planned to be a photographer... it just kind of happened.

I was born in Ljubljana and grew up there, well, mostly there. Along the way I was quite successful in schools and I became PhD of biochemisty and molecular genetics. I did some serious research work to get there, where I learned lots of unimportant things. But I have always liked traveling and sports. They took me to countless magnificent places in my life. These fine places introduced me to new people, big ideas and global concepts that shape the person I am today.

Somewhere on the way I discovered photography and fell in love with it. With time I developed my skills and became a lifestyle stock photographer though travel and street photography remained my greatest passion. I do some commercial projects and weddings occasionally as well."

Matej speaks English, Spanish, Slovenian, Croatian, Serbian.

Where are some of your favourite places to shoot in Ljubljana?

Ljubljana’s Medieval Old Town – It is the canter of Ljubljana where wonderful romantic architectural aesthetic merge with lively everyday local life and laid back terracing culture of coffee drinking and people watching.

Preseren’s Square, Kongresni Square, Banks of river Ljubljanica connected with Triple and Cobblers’ bridge, Petkovskovo Nabrezje are just some of the gems of the area.

Ljubljana Castle - Crowning a 375-metre-high hill east of the Old Town, the castle is number one architectural highlight of Ljubljana as well as cool green natural retreat in summer heat. It offers amazing view of the whole city and mountains on the north.

Nebotičnik - Skyscarper build in 1933 is another prominent high-rise located in the centre of Ljubljana and is one of the city's most recognisable landmarks. It offers a pleasant rooftop bar with the most iconic city view overlooking the Ljubljana's castle and Old Town.

Three words to best describe your style of photography?

Documentary, Lifestyle, Travel.