Through Photography, I Promote the Beauty of Macedonia

Saturday, Wind, Fog, Cold, Snow on Šapka, Hot Tea, and Kajak.mk Ahead of You. Saturday is also the day for another beautiful story from Stefan Stojchevski, whose Instagram profile photosby_stojchevski showcases stunning photographs of the beauty of our country.

I started photography back in elementary school," says Stojchevski. "The reason is more than clear—I wanted to document everything, and even then, I realized that through photography, the moment remains an eternal reminder for all future generations, as well as for all of us who are witnesses to how the world is changing in an increasingly fast and modern way of life. Through photography, the true values remain as a reminder."

"Today, I wouldn’t call myself a professional photographer, but rather someone who is a big enthusiast of photography and enjoys it as a hobby.

Photography across Macedonia attracted me because our country truly abounds with priceless natural and cultural wealth. I wasn’t even aware of some places in Macedonia until I saw those photographs. From here, I can say that this is my goal as well. I want to introduce people to the beauties of Macedonia through my photos. I believe that love for our homeland is best expressed when we make an effort to get to know and protect it as its children."

When asked about the best three destinations for photography, staying, and enjoying:

• National Park "Mavrovo"
• Kruševo
• Village Zrze

When it comes to summer or winter, I would choose summer because it offers a more vivid landscape, a more active wildlife, and easier access to certain complex locations compared to winter.

Rivers fascinate me more because of the surrounding areas, their source, and the way they flow into larger bodies of water.

When it comes to what’s better for photography, of course, everyone has different tastes, but what attracts me the most is the old, typical Macedonian architecture found throughout the country. It reflects the way of life of the locals in a particular area or region. Through architecture, we can understand the conditions they lived in, as well as the many cultural landmarks that region holds.

For winter, I would recommend mountains that offer rest and peace, such as:

• Osogovo Mountains
• Shar Mountain
• Baba
• Jablanica
• Skopje's Black Mountain
• Karadzica

Of course, depending on your readiness and equipment for winter conditions, if you're not experienced in winter, it’s better to walk in some grass-covered mountains that are richer in vegetation, instead of steep peaks. If you don't have mountain experience, it’s best to be guided by a mountain guide.