My Journey: Capturing the Extraordinary

Hi, I'm Santiago Anacleto. My journey as a photographer is fueled by a childhood fascination with the Portuguese Air Force. Growing up, I eagerly followed every event they organized, trying to capture those mesmerizing aircraft with a simple compact camera.


In 2017, I invested in my first high-quality gear, and by 2020, armed with a DSLR, I started exploring diverse photography projects—from portraits and concerts to motorsport. But my heart always pulled me back to my initial passion. In 2021, I officially launched this project with a clear mission: to portray the incredible, dynamic worlds of military and aviation through my lens.


I don't just want to take photos; I want to turn military and aviation scenes into visual masterpieces and craft stunning stories, capturing the awe-inspiring moments that make these realms truly extraordinary.


Trusted by the Best

Over the years, my dedication to this niche has allowed me to build strong partnerships and earn the trust of highly demanding military branches and elite law enforcement agencies. I thrive on seeking fresh opportunities, whether on the ground with the troops or pointing my lens up at the skies.

Some of the milestones I am most proud of include:

  • Air & Naval Forces: I have had the privilege of working with the Portuguese Air Force's Esquadra 551 - Panteras and the Portuguese Navy's Helicopter Squadron. As a photojournalist, I’ve also covered major PoAF exercises, including MORSA-SATER 2024 and the NATO Tiger Meet 2025.
  • The "Jaguar" F-16 Project: During the NATO Tiger Meet 2025, I had the unique opportunity to document the artist "NARK" Pinhão as he brought the spectacular "Jaguar" special livery to life on the F-16 "15107" for Esquadra 301 - Jaguares.
  • Boots on the Ground with the Army: I've developed a close working partnership with the Portuguese Army, embedding with them to document major tactical exercises such as ORION (2018, 2023-2025), STRONG IMPACT, BAMBARI, ESTIO, TROVÃO, CARPATHOS START, AIRBORNE DAGGER, and ROSA BRAVA.
  • Law Enforcement & Special Operations: Through a relationship built on trust, I’ve closely followed the Polícia Judiciária Militar (PJM) during their Shooting Instructor Courses, training sessions, and joint operations with the FAP's Esquadra 552 - Zangões. I was also honored to contribute footage for their 47th Anniversary video. More recently, I have also started working alongside the elite operatives of the GNR’s GIOE (Grupo de Intervenção de Operações Especiais).

Published Work

My relentless pursuit of the perfect shot has led my work to be featured nationally and internationally. You can find my photography in specialized magazines such as FAM - Fuerzas Militares del Mundo, Defense International, and The Aviation Magazine.


Additionally, my photos have been published in institutional and historical books, including "GIOE - Sempre Prontos" by Colonel José Augusto do Vale Faria, and the institutional book "17ª Quick Reaction Force | MINUSCA - República Centro Africana".


Constantly eager to learn and push my limits, I face every new challenge with enthusiasm, always striving to exceed expectations and capture the next incredible story.