barak shacked - surva

The Surva Festival in Pernik is one of Europe’s most powerful and visually striking folk festivals.

Rooted in ancient traditions, it brings together dramatic masks, intense rituals, raw energy, and a deep connection between people, culture, and place. For a photographer, Surva is not just an event – it is a living stage of movement, expression, and character.

I am a festival and documentary photographer, focusing on cultural events, traditional celebrations, and human stories around the world. My work aims to go beyond documentation – capturing atmosphere, emotion, and the unique moments that define each festival from the inside.

During Surva, I photographed the main parade and the surrounding moments – performers preparing, resting, interacting, and fully immersing themselves in the rhythm of the festival. The result is a visual story that reflects both the intensity of the masks and the humanity behind them.

You are invited to explore selected photo series from the Surva Carnival on my Facebook pages: