cambodia

Fanboys and Fujifilm

Fujichrome, cameras, Travel, fujifilm, pictures, photography, opinons, thoughts, street, cambodia, film

Hello, fellow photography enthusiasts! Today, I want to talk about a phenomenon that has been sweeping the photography world for the last few years: the Fujifilm craze and fanboys.

You know what I’m talking about. Those people who swear by their Fujifilm cameras and lenses, who rave about the colours, the ergonomics, the film simulations, the retro design, and the overall experience of shooting with Fuji. They are everywhere: on social media, on forums, on YouTube, on blogs, and even in real life. They are passionate, loyal, and sometimes a bit defensive. They are the Fuji FanBoys (and girls).

Now, before you accuse me of being a hater or a troll, let me make one thing clear: I have nothing against Fujifilm or its users. In fact, I own a Fujifilm X-T3 myself and a few other Fuji cameras and lenses, and I love them. It’s a great camera that delivers excellent image quality, performance, and usability. It’s fun to use and it inspires me to be creative. I also appreciate Fujifilm’s dedication to innovation and customer service. They are constantly updating their firmware, adding new features and improving existing ones. They also listen to feedback and suggestions from their users and implement them in their products.

So why am I writing this blog post? Well, because I think there is a difference between being a fan and being a fanboy/girl. A fan is someone who likes something and enjoys it. A fanboy/girl is someone who likes something and thinks it’s the best thing ever. A fan is open-minded and respectful of other opinions. A fanboy/girl is closed-minded and dismissive of other perspectives. A fan is willing to admit flaws and limitations. A fanboy is blind to faults and exaggerations.

Don’t get me wrong: there is nothing wrong with being enthusiastic about something you love. But when that enthusiasm turns into obsession, bias, or arrogance, then it becomes a problem. And that’s what I see happening with some of the Fuji FanBoys out there. They are so obsessed with their Fujifilm gear that they can’t see anything else. They are so biased that they ignore or downplay the advantages of other brands or systems. They are so arrogant that they mock or insult anyone who dares to disagree with them or choose something different.

This kind of behaviour is not only annoying but also harmful. It creates unnecessary division and hostility among photographers who should be united by their passion for the art and craft of photography. It also limits one’s own growth and learning as a photographer by shutting out other possibilities and perspectives. And it ultimately undermines one’s credibility and reputation as a photographer by making one look like a fanatic or a shill.

So what can we do about this? Well, first of all, we can be more aware of our own biases and preferences. We can acknowledge that we like Fujifilm for certain reasons, but that doesn’t mean that Fujifilm is perfect or superior to everything else. We can recognize that other brands and systems have their own strengths and weaknesses and that they may suit different needs and tastes better than Fujifilm. We can respect other people’s choices and opinions, even if they differ from ours.

Secondly, we can be more curious and open-minded about other options and opportunities. We can try out different cameras and lenses from different brands and systems, either by renting them, borrowing them from friends, or visiting a store. We can learn from other photographers who use different gear than us, either by reading their reviews, watching their videos, or following their work. We can experiment with different styles and genres of photography that may challenge us or inspire us.

Thirdly, we can be more humble and honest about our own skills and abilities. We can admit that we are not experts or masters of photography just because we use Fujifilm gear. We can acknowledge that we still have a lot to learn and improve as photographers, regardless of what camera or lens we use. We can focus more on our vision and creativity than on our gear and specs.

In conclusion, I want to say that I’m not trying to bash or offend anyone who loves Fujifilm gear. I’m just trying to share my perspective on how we can be better photographers and better people by being more balanced and reasonable in our fandom. I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post and found it useful or interesting. If you agree or disagree with me, feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email. I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic.

Until next time.

Back button AF

cameras, Lenses, Travel, fujifilm, pictures, photography, opinons, thoughts, public, street, cambodia

Using the back button AF is a technique that allows you to focus on your subject without having to press the shutter button halfway. It involves assigning a different button on the back of your camera to activate the autofocus system, instead of using the shutter button. Normally, when you press the shutter button halfway, you activate the autofocus system and lock the focus on your subject. When you press it fully, you take the picture. However, if you move your camera after locking the focus, or if your subject moves, you may lose focus and end up with a blurry image. By using a separate button for focusing, you can avoid this problem and have more control over when and where to focus. This way, you can lock the focus on your subject and recompose the frame without losing focus. Using back button AF can be useful for situations where you want to have more control over the focus point, or when you are shooting moving subjects and want to track them continuously. Some of the benefits of using back button AF are:

  • You can avoid accidental refocusing when you press the shutter button fully.
  • You can switch between single and continuous autofocus modes without changing the settings on your camera.
  • You can prevent focus hunting when shooting in low light or low contrast scenes.
  • You can use manual focus and autofocus interchangeably without switching modes.

To use the back button AF, you need to assign a button on the back of your camera to activate the autofocus system. The exact procedure may vary depending on your camera model, but generally, you can find it in the custom functions menu. Once you have assigned the button, you need to disable the autofocus function from the shutter button. This way, the shutter button will only be used to take the picture, and the back button will be used to focus. To use the back button AF, you simply press and hold the back button to focus on your subject, and then release it when you have achieved focus. You can then recompose the frame and press the shutter button to take the picture.

Is being able to shoot manually a real requirement

cameras, Lenses, Travel, pictures, photography, opinons, thoughts, street, cambodia

Do I have to learn to shoot manually before I can consider myself a photographer? That’s like asking if I have to learn how to drive a stick before I can consider myself a driver. Sure, it might make you feel more in control and impress some people, but it’s not a requirement. There are plenty of amazing photographers who use auto mode and still capture stunning images. Manual mode is just a tool, not a badge of honour. It can help you in some situations, but it can also hinder you in others. The most important thing is to know your camera, your subject, and your vision. And to have fun, of course. Photography is supposed to be fun, not stressful. So don’t worry about what other people think or what mode you use. Just go out there and shoot!

One of the best ways to capture stunning portraits is to use the aperture priority mode on your camera. This mode allows you to adjust the depth of field, which is how much of the scene is in focus. By using a large aperture (a small f-number), you can create a shallow depth of field that blurs the background and makes the person stand out. This way, you can emphasize their facial features, expressions, and emotions. Aperture priority mode is great for people’s pictures because it lets you focus on the person without worrying about other settings. You can simply point and shoot, and let the camera do the rest. Aperture priority mode gives you more creative control and flexibility than auto mode and helps you achieve professional-looking results with ease. Whatever mode you use its is just a tool to help you get the picture you see.

The Fuji 27mm f2.8 (first version)

cambodia, cameras, Fujichrome, fujifilm, Lenses, opinons, thoughts, photography, pictures, street, Travel

If you are looking for a versatile and compact lens to pair with your X Pro3, you can’t go wrong with the Fujifilm 27mm f2.8. This lens is a gem for general and street photography, as it offers a fast aperture, sharp image quality, and a lightweight design. The 27mm focal length is equivalent to 41mm on a full-frame sensor, which is close to the classic 35mm field of view many photographers love. It allows you to capture many scenes, from landscapes to portraits, without distortion or cropping. The f2.8 aperture lets you shoot in low-light conditions and create beautiful bokeh effects. The lens also has a quick and silent autofocus system that works well with the X Pro3’s hybrid viewfinder. The best part is that the lens is so tiny and light that you can easily carry it around in your pocket or bag. It barely adds any bulk to the X Pro3’s sleek and retro body. The Fujifilm 27mm f2.8 is a great lens for anyone who wants to enjoy the simplicity and creativity of photography with the X Pro3.

I have owned it for quite a while but never really used the Fujifilm 27mm f2.8 lens until recently, and I have to say I’m blown away by its performance! It’s so compact and lightweight, yet it delivers sharp and crisp images with beautiful colours and contrast. It’s perfect for street photography, landscapes, and portraits. It has a fast autofocus and a smooth aperture ring that lets me control the depth of field easily. I love how it makes my camera look sleek and discreet, and how it fits in my pocket when I’m on the go. This lens is a gem and I’m so glad I finally gave it a chance!

Restricted on face book

cambodia, opinons, thoughts, photography, pictures, public, street

My account has been restricted on FB for 2 days for displaying this picture which they say goes against FB rules

How anyone could find this image to be offensive or sexual in any way is certainly beyond me.

Covering Local Political Events in Cambodia

cambodia, conflict, opinons, thoughts, photography, pictures, street, Travel, voluntary

Covering local political events and taking pictures in Cambodia can be a risky activity for journalists and photographers. Cambodia has a history of political violence, repression and censorship. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), Cambodia ranks 144th out of 180 countries in the 2020 World Press Freedom Index. The CPJ also reports that at least 13 journalists have been killed in Cambodia since 1994, most of them while covering political or environmental issues.

In addition, many journalists and media outlets have faced harassment, intimidation, lawsuits, arrests and closures for criticizing the government or exposing corruption.

Therefore, anyone who wants to cover local political events and take pictures in Cambodia should be aware of the potential dangers and take precautions to protect themselves and their sources. Some of the tips that CPJ recommends are:

– Research the political and security situation in the areas you plan to visit and avoid areas with active conflicts or protests.

– Carry a press card or accreditation from a reputable media organization and show it only when necessary.

– Use encrypted communication tools and secure storage devices to protect your data and contacts.

– Be discreet and respectful when taking pictures and avoid drawing attention to yourself or your equipment.

– Seek permission from local authorities or community leaders before entering sensitive areas or interviewing people.

– Be prepared to delete or hide your pictures if you are stopped or searched by security forces or hostile groups.

– Have an emergency plan and contact person in case you are detained, injured or threatened.

Covering local political events and taking pictures in Cambodia can be a rewarding and challenging experience for journalists and photographers who want to document the realities and stories of this Southeast Asian country. However, it can also be a dangerous activity that requires caution, preparation and professionalism.

I have always been passionate about covering local political events and taking pictures in Cambodia. I believe that journalism is a powerful tool to inform the public and hold the authorities accountable. That is why I decided to pursue this career despite the risks and challenges involved.

Cambodia is a country that has been struggling with political repression, human rights violations, and social unrest for decades. The ruling party, the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP), has been in power since 1985 and has eliminated any meaningful opposition or dissent. The 2018 elections were widely criticized as a sham, as the main opposition party, the Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), was banned by the Supreme Court in 2017. The CPP won all 125 seats in the National Assembly, effectively turning Cambodia into a one-party state.

As a journalist, I face many dangers and difficulties in reporting on the political situation in Cambodia. The government has enacted draconian laws that restrict freedom of expression, assembly, and association. The media is tightly controlled by the state or by CPP-aligned tycoons. Independent journalists and activists are often harassed, intimidated, arrested, or even killed for exposing corruption, human rights abuses, or environmental issues. The Covid-19 pandemic has been used as a pretext to further crackdown on dissent and criticism.

Despite these challenges, I am determined to continue my work and document the realities of Cambodia. I use my camera as a means to capture the stories of ordinary people who suffer from poverty, injustice, and oppression. I also use my pen as a voice to advocate for democracy, human rights, and social change. I hope that my work can inspire others to join me in a better future for Cambodia.

Cambodian Labour Day 2023

cambodia, conflict, opinons, thoughts, photography, pictures, street

On May 1st, 2023, hundreds of Cambodian workers took to the streets to mark Labour Day and demanded better working conditions and higher wages. The demonstrations were peaceful and well-organized, with no reports of violence or clashes with the authorities. The protesters carried banners and placards with slogans such as “Workers are not slaves”, “We deserve a living wage”, and “Respect our rights”. They also sang songs and chanted slogans in Khmer and English, expressing their solidarity and determination.

The demonstrations were part of a nationwide campaign by the Cambodian Labour Confederation (CLC), the largest independent trade union in the country. The CLC represents workers from various sectors, including garment, construction, tourism, and agriculture. The CLC has been advocating for a minimum wage increase from $192 to $250 per month, as well as improved health and safety standards, social protection, and freedom of association. The CLC claims that the current minimum wage is insufficient to cover the basic needs of workers and their families, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic and the rising cost of living.

The demonstrations were also supported by other civil society groups, human rights organizations, and opposition parties. They called on the government to respect the rights of workers and engage in dialogue with the unions. They also urged the international community to pressure the Cambodian government to uphold its obligations under the International Labour Organization (ILO) conventions and other human rights treaties.

The Cambodian government has not responded to the workers’ demands and has maintained tight control over the labour movement. The government has been accused of cracking down on unions and activists, restricting their freedom of expression and assembly, and using legal threats and intimidation to silence dissent. The government has also been criticized for failing to protect workers from exploitation, abuse, and discrimination by employers and foreign investors.

The Cambodian Labour Day demonstrations were a sign of the growing discontent and frustration among the working class in Cambodia. They also showed the strength and resilience of the labour movement in the face of repression and hardship. The workers vowed to continue their struggle until their demands are met and their dignity is restored.

***Rising costs and static wages are causing the ordinary working population to struggle in Cambodia. This means that the prices of goods and services are increasing faster than the income of most people, especially those who work in the garment, textile, and footwear industries. These industries are vital to Cambodia’s economy, as they account for some 80 per cent of total exports and employ over 700,000 workers. However, the workers in these industries only receive a minimum wage of US$194 per month for regular workers and US$192 per month for probationary workers. This is barely enough to cover their basic needs, such as food, transportation, accommodation, and health care. Moreover, the minimum wage has only increased by US$10 in three years, while inflation and living expenses have risen faster. The government has tried to balance the interests of the workers and the employers, but many workers are still dissatisfied with their low wages and poor working conditions. They demanded a higher minimum wage of US$204 per month, but this was rejected by the government. The workers have also faced challenges from the withdrawal of Cambodia’s partial ‘Everything but Arms’ status by the European Union, which gave the country duty-free access to EU markets. This has reduced the demand for Cambodian exports and threatened the jobs of many workers. Therefore, rising costs and static wages are creating a lot of hardship and discontent among the ordinary working population in Cambodia.***

“It’s not fair that we work so hard to make clothes, shoes, and other products for the Western markets, but we barely get enough money to survive. The companies that sell our goods charge high prices to their customers, but they pay us very low wages. They don’t care about our health, safety, or dignity. They only care about their profits. We deserve better than this. We deserve to have a decent living standard, to have access to education and health care, and to have a voice in our workplaces. We are not machines. We are human beings”. Anonymous quote

Defining your photographic comfort zone

cambodia, cameras, conflict, homelessness, Lenses, opinons, thoughts, photography, street, Travel, voluntary, war

One of the most important aspects of photography is finding your own style and voice. But how do you do that? How do you know what kind of photos you like to take and what kind of photos you are good at taking? One way to approach this question is by defining your photographic comfort zone.

Your photographic comfort zone is the range of subjects, situations, and techniques that you feel comfortable and confident with. It’s where you can express yourself freely and creatively, without feeling anxious or frustrated. It’s where you can enjoy the process of making images and have fun with your camera.

But how do you find your photographic comfort zone? Well, there is no definitive answer to that, as everyone’s comfort zone is different and personal. However, here are some possible steps that might help you:

  • Experiment with different genres and styles of photography. Try shooting landscapes, portraits, street, macro, wildlife, abstract, etc. See what appeals to you and what doesn’t. See what challenges you and what bores you. See what makes you happy and what makes you stressed.
  • Analyze your existing photos. Look at your portfolio and see if there are any patterns or themes that emerge. What kind of subjects do you tend to photograph the most? What kind of lighting do you prefer? What kind of colors do you use? What kind of mood or emotion do you convey? What kind of composition or perspective do you favor?
  • Ask for feedback. Show your photos to other people and see what they think. Ask them what they like and dislike about your photos. Ask them what they think your strengths and weaknesses are. Ask them what they think your style or voice is. Be open to constructive criticism and learn from it.
  • Challenge yourself. Once you have a sense of your photographic comfort zone, don’t be afraid to step out of it from time to time. Try something new or different that pushes you beyond your limits. Try a new technique or a new genre that you are not familiar with. Try a new location or a new subject that you are not comfortable with. Try to overcome your fears or insecurities and grow as a photographer.

Defining your photographic comfort zone can help you discover your own style and voice as a photographer. It can also help you improve your skills and expand your horizons. However, remember that your comfort zone is not fixed or static. It can change over time as you evolve as a photographer and as a person. So keep exploring, keep learning, and keep enjoying photography!

Choosing what images to make. How to find inspiration for my photography.

cambodia, cameras, opinons, thoughts, photography, pictures, street, Travel, voluntary, war

One of the most common challenges that photographers face is deciding what to photograph. Sometimes, you may have a clear idea of what you want to capture, but other times, you may feel stuck or uninspired. How can you overcome this creative block and find new sources of inspiration for your photography?

There are many ways to spark your imagination and get motivated to take photos. Here are some tips that may help you choose what images to make and how to find inspiration for your photography.

  • Explore different genres and styles. Photography is a diverse and versatile art form that can express many different moods, emotions, and messages. You can experiment with different genres and styles of photography, such as portrait, landscape, street, abstract, macro, wildlife, documentary, and more. Each genre has its own challenges and opportunities for creativity. You can also try different techniques and effects, such as long exposure, HDR, black and white, bokeh, and more. By exploring different genres and styles, you can discover new perspectives and possibilities for your photography.
  • Follow other photographers. One of the best ways to learn and improve your photography is to follow other photographers who inspire you. You can find many talented and creative photographers online, on platforms such as Instagram, Flickr, 500px, Behance, and more. You can also look for photography blogs, magazines, books, podcasts, and videos that showcase the work and insights of other photographers. By following other photographers, you can learn from their skills, techniques, tips, and stories. You can also get inspired by their vision, style, and themes.
  • Join a photography community. Another way to find inspiration for your photography is to join a photography community where you can interact with other photographers who share your passion and interest. You can find many photography communities online or offline, such as forums, groups, clubs, workshops, contests, and more. By joining a photography community, you can get feedback, advice, support, and encouragement from other photographers. You can also participate in challenges, projects, collaborations, and events that can stimulate your creativity and challenge your skills.
  • Go outside your comfort zone. Sometimes, the best way to find inspiration for your photography is to go outside your comfort zone and try something new or different. You can challenge yourself to photograph something that you normally wouldn’t or that scares you. You can also travel to a new place or revisit an old one with a fresh eye. You can also experiment with new equipment or settings that you are not familiar with. By going outside your comfort zone, you can push your boundaries and discover new aspects of yourself and your photography.
  • Have fun and enjoy the process. Finally, the most important tip to find inspiration for your photography is to have fun and enjoy the process. Photography is not only a skill or a profession but also a hobby and a passion. You should not take it too seriously or put too much pressure on yourself to create perfect images. Instead, you should focus on the joy and satisfaction that photography brings you. You should also appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world around you and capture it with your camera. By having fun and enjoying the process, you can find inspiration for your photography in every moment.

Knowing your camera

cambodia, cameras, film, Fujichrome, fujifilm, Lenses, opinons, thoughts, photography, pictures, street, Travel

If you are passionate about photography, you know how important it is to know your camera well. Your camera is your tool, your partner, and your creative expression. Knowing your camera means you can take better photos, faster and easier.

But how do you get to know your camera? There are so many features, settings, and options that it can be overwhelming at first. Don’t worry, we are here to help you with some tips and tricks to get you started.

The first thing you need to do is read the manual. Yes, we know it sounds boring and tedious, but trust us, it will save you a lot of time and frustration later on. The manual will tell you everything you need to know about your camera’s functions, modes, menus, and buttons. You will learn how to adjust the exposure, focus, white balance, ISO, aperture, shutter speed, and more. You will also learn how to use the flash, the zoom, the timer, the burst mode, and other features that can enhance your photos.

The second thing you need to do is practice. The best way to learn is by doing. Take your camera with you everywhere you go and try different settings and situations. Experiment with different angles, perspectives, lighting conditions, and subjects. See how your camera reacts and what results you get. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become with your camera.

The third thing you need to do is have fun. Photography is not only a skill but also an art form. It is a way of expressing yourself and capturing moments that matter to you. Don’t get too caught up in the technical details and forget to enjoy the process. Be creative, be curious, be adventurous. Find your own style and voice. Share your photos with others and get feedback. Learn from other photographers and get inspired by their work.

Knowing your camera is not a one-time thing. It is a continuous journey of discovery and improvement. As you grow as a photographer, so will your camera skills. You will always find new things to learn and new ways to challenge yourself.

But remember, the most important thing is not the camera itself but what you do with it.