Life is full of ups and downs, twists and turns, and unexpected challenges that make it unpredictable. It's a rollercoaster ride with no guarantee of a smooth journey. But how can we find peace and solace amidst the chaos? The answer lies in discovering activities and passions that give meaning to our existence and offer respite from the challenges of life. Matt Jacob, a pilot and owner of M.O.O.D. photography studio, understands the healing power of art. His story of fighting chronic illness with his camera and artistic vision is nothing short of inspiring.

Matt has always been passionate about capturing the essence of life and the unique stories that it has to offer through his camera lens. As a child, he started practicing photography as a hobby with disposable cameras. Even as he pursued his formal education, his love for photography remained strong.

When Matt was twenty years old, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer while studying at university. This was a turning point in his life that made him realize the true meaning of life. Confronted with the fragility of life, he began to look for ways to create a legacy that would outlast his time on earth. He wanted to capture fleeting moments and memories, and luckily his love for photography provided the perfect outlet. Matt started taking pictures of everything around him, capturing life's small and significant moments with his artistic vision.

Photography became a lifesaver for Matt during his battle with cancer. Even after beating the disease, his new approach to photography stayed with him. Matt's unique artistic vision and philosophy are evident in his portraits. He captures the drama of human nature, focusing on facial expressions and cultural photography, allowing him to explore the diversity of life on our planet. He has photographed the Bedouin tribe in Oman, the eagle hunters of the Altai Mountains, the modern-day cowboys, and the friendly tribal peoples of Indonesia.

The COVID-19 pandemic hit Matt hard when he got infected. But once again, his passion for photography provided a safe haven. He produced a series of photographs detailing his time in a COVID ward in Hong Kong, one of the strictest government isolation facilities. His gloomy pictures capture the loneliness and isolation of that difficult time while also giving a sense of solidarity by showing all his ward mates together. These photographs offer an artist's view of the pandemic that the whole world faced.

Matt's work shows that art is not just a leisurely pursuit; it defines life in a way that nothing else can. His story also emphasizes the importance of finding our passions and realizing the true meaning of life for ourselves. So, take a cue from Matt's story and discover your own passion, and let it add meaning to your life.

Want to learn more? Follow Matt on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube to stay in touch.

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