My first adventure began when I decided to take my little suitcase with the "Babare" logo, featuring a cartoon elephant. That night, I packed the essentials: underwear, a compass, and a toothbrush. My goal was simple — to visit him, my favorite elephant in Africa, when I was just 3 years old.

I can still remember the quiet steps I took, careful not to wake my brothers or parents. I also recall how difficult it was to close the door behind me. I don’t know where the strength came from to leave my warm bed and my home with food, but that moment, that strength, was stronger than anything else.

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Since then, I’ve often been considered reckless by some, but to me, each of my escapades has felt like the most natural choice. I enjoy exploring the world and meeting the people, creatures, and characters who live, sleep, and dream around us — after all, everyone looks up at the same moon in the sky.

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Thank you for reading the stories of the characters I’ve encountered and for appreciating the beauty left for us on our beautiful planet.

I see photography as a way to freeze a moment in time. I view imperfection as a form of perfection, because it’s always amazing how a single moment can surprise you with its magnificence.

I am Matěj, someone who loves to see, not just watch.