 |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |
 |  |  |  |
 |
FOTO IRIS - A Story of Family, Memory and Bullfighting Passion
Foto Íris is much more than a photography studio — it's a true living archive of the Azores' memory. Founded by Armando Costa and Carlos Costa and driven by the pioneering talent of Anaísa Costa, the first professional female photographer on Terceira Island, the company has built a legacy over more than 70 years based on dedication, innovation, and close ties to the community. From studio portraits and social reportage to religious events and historical moments, Foto Íris has captured entire generations, preserving stories that continue to come to life today through the digitization of its vast photographic archive.
This family tradition spans generations, remaining true to its mission of immortalizing memories. João Costa, one of the most striking faces of the second generation, grew up surrounded by photography and became a reference in social and cultural reporting in the Azores. Connected to bullfighting from a young age, not only through the lens but also through experiencing the spectacle, João has always been a passionate aficionado, even taking his own steps as a bullfighter in his youth. Over the decades, he has been one of the key figures in documenting the richness and authenticity of bullfights with ropes and in the arena, promoting this tradition with sensitivity and artistic rigor.
In the third generation, Pedro Costa continues this legacy, combining photography with design and the creation of innovative projects. Linked to the Tertúlia Tauromáquica Terceirense Amateur Bullfighting Group, he shares the same passion for bullfighting and has brought a new dimension to the family project with the creation of the Toirito and 5º Toiro brands. Through these, he has developed sticker albums, publications, and products that celebrate Azorean bullfighting culture, bringing new generations closer to this tradition.
Today, Foto Íris has established itself as a solid and multifaceted family business, where each member plays an essential role. João Costa leads the photographic component, with the collaboration of Pedro, responsible for image and design. Isabel Costa, with the support of Sara Brasil, Fausto Costa, Lúcia Costa, Bárbara Costa, and Rodrigo Cabeceiras, ensures partnerships and production, while financial management is handled by Fausto Costa. United by a common passion—photography and bullfighting—they work together to bring to life projects such as the Toirito notebook, a symbol of cultural preservation and Azorean identity.
More than a company, Foto Íris is a family dedicated to telling stories — with images, tradition, and soul.