How to improve your photography

opinons, thoughts, photography, pictures, processing, street, Travel

Photography is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice, patience and passion. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned photographer, there are always ways to take your photos to the next level. Here are some tips on how to improve your photography and capture stunning images.

Learn the basics of exposure. Exposure is the amount of light that reaches your camera sensor and determines how bright or dark your photo is. Exposure is controlled by three factors: aperture, shutter speed and ISO. The aperture is the size of the opening in your lens that lets in light. Shutter speed is the length of time that your camera shutter stays open to expose the sensor. ISO is the sensitivity of your sensor to light. By adjusting these three factors, you can achieve different effects and creative results in your photos.
Understand the rule of thirds. The rule of thirds is a simple but effective composition technique that helps you create balanced and interesting photos. Imagine dividing your frame into nine equal parts with two horizontal and two vertical lines. The rule of thirds suggests that you place your main subject or point of interest along one of these lines or at one of their intersections. This way, you avoid placing your subject in the centre of the frame, which can make your photo look static and boring.
Experiment with different perspectives. One of the easiest ways to improve your photography is to change your point of view and try different angles and perspectives. Instead of taking photos from eye level, try shooting from above, below, behind, beside or close to your subject. This can create a sense of depth, drama, intimacy or surprise in your photos and make them more engaging and unique.
Use natural light. Natural light is one of the best sources of illumination for photography, as it can create beautiful colours, shadows, contrasts and moods in your photos. The quality and direction of natural light can vary depending on the time of day, weather and season, so you need to pay attention to how it affects your subject and scene. Generally, the golden hour (the hour after sunrise and before sunset) and the blue hour (the hour before sunrise and after sunset) are considered the best times for photography, as they produce soft, warm and flattering light.
Edit your photos. Editing your photos can enhance their appearance and correct any flaws or mistakes that you made while shooting. You can use various software or apps to edit your photos on your computer or smartphone. Some of the basic editing tools that you can use are cropping, rotating, adjusting brightness, contrast, saturation, sharpness, white balance and colour temperature. You can also apply filters or presets to give your photos a certain style or mood.

These are only some of the tips on how to improve your photography and take better photos. Remember that photography is a fun and rewarding hobby that allows you to express yourself creatively and capture memorable moments. Keep practising, learning and experimenting with your camera and you will soon see improvement in your skills and results.

Ethical issues for street photographers: Old Man Series.

cambodia, cameras, conflict, FB, homelessness, Lenses, opinons, thoughts, photography, pictures, public, street, Travel, war

Street photography is a fascinating and rewarding genre of photography that captures candid moments of life in public spaces. However, street photography also poses some ethical challenges that require careful consideration and respect from the photographer. Here are some ethical issues for the street photographer to keep in mind:

Respect the privacy and dignity of the people you are photographing as much as possible. Even though you have the legal right to take photos in public spaces, you should also be mindful of how your photos might affect the people you are photographing. For example, you should avoid taking photos of people in vulnerable or embarrassing situations, such as homeless people, people with disabilities, or people who are grieving. You should also respect the wishes of people who do not want to be photographed and delete their photos if they ask you to do so.

Consider the power dynamics at play when taking photos. As a street photographer, you have the power to choose what to photograph, how to photograph it, and how to present it to the world. You should be aware of how your photos might reinforce or challenge stereotypes, biases, or prejudices about certain groups of people or places. You should also be aware of how your presence and actions might affect the people and environments you are photographing. For example, you should avoid being intrusive, aggressive, or disrespectful when taking photos, and you should not interfere with or endanger anyone’s safety or well-being.

Be culturally sensitive so as not to feed into stereotypes and biases. Street photography can be a great way to learn about and appreciate different cultures and lifestyles, but it can also be a source of misunderstanding and misrepresentation if done without cultural sensitivity. You should do some research and educate yourself about the places and people you are photographing, and try to understand their context and perspective. You should also avoid taking photos that might be considered offensive, disrespectful, or inappropriate by the local culture or norms.

Put the safety of the people you are photographing above the photograph. Street photography can sometimes involve taking risks or facing dangers, such as going to unfamiliar or unsafe places, encountering hostile or violent people, or breaking laws or rules. However, you should never put yourself or others in harm’s way for the sake of a photo. You should always prioritize your own safety and the safety of the people you are photographing over getting a shot. You should also be prepared for any possible consequences or repercussions of your actions.

Think about the risks and consequences of intrusive shooting before getting in someone’s face. Some street photographers prefer to shoot close-up and candidly, without asking for permission or notifying their subjects. This can result in striking and evocative images that capture raw emotions and expressions, but it can also result in unwanted confrontations, conflicts, or lawsuits. You should weigh the pros and cons of this approach before deciding to use it, and be ready to deal with any negative reactions or outcomes. You should also respect the personal space and boundaries of your subjects, and not invade their privacy or comfort.

Think about how you will use and share your photos. Street photography can have many purposes and audiences, such as artistic expression, social commentary, documentary evidence, or personal enjoyment. You should think about why you are taking photos and who you are taking them for before you use or share them. You should also consider how your photos might affect or influence others who see them. For example, you should obtain consent from your subjects if you plan to use their photos for commercial purposes, such as selling prints or licensing images. You should also respect the intellectual property rights of other photographers and not copy or steal their work.

Why I make pictures

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

I take photographs because I love capturing the beauty and the emotion of the world around me. I take photographs because I want to share my perspective and my stories with others. I take photographs because I enjoy the challenge and the creativity of finding the right angle, the right light, and the right moment. I take photographs because I feel alive and happy when I hold a camera in my hands.

Photography is more than just a hobby for me. It is a passion, a way of expression, a form of art. Photography is a journey of discovery, of learning, of growth. Photography is a gift that I can give to myself and to others. Photography is my way of saying thank you to life for all the wonderful experiences and memories that it offers me. Photography is my voice, my vision, my expression. It is who I am and what I do. It is why I take photographs.

Using the Fujifilm XE2 camera plus XF 18mm f2 for street photography: Old Photographer Series.

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

If you are looking for a compact and versatile camera for street photography, you might want to consider the Fujifilm XE2 with a 18mm f2 lens. This combination offers many advantages for capturing candid moments in the urban environment. Here are some reasons why:

The Fujifilm XE2 is a mirrorless camera that has a retro design and a solid build quality. It has a 16.3 megapixel APS-C sensor that delivers excellent image quality and low-light performance. It also has a fast and accurate autofocus system that can track moving subjects with ease.
The 18mm f2 lens is a wide-angle prime lens that has a 35mm equivalent focal length of 27mm. This is a classic focal length for street photography, as it allows you to capture a wide view of the scene without distorting the perspective too much. It also has a bright aperture of f2 that lets you create shallow depth of field effects and shoot in low-light situations.
The combination of the Fujifilm XE2 and the 18mm f2 lens is very lightweight and discreet. You can easily carry it around in your bag or pocket, and it won’t attract too much attention from your subjects.
The Fujifilm XE2 and the 18mm f2 lens also give you a lot of creative control over your images. You can choose from various film simulation modes that emulate the look of classic Fujifilm films, such as Provia, Velvia, Astia, and more. You can also adjust the exposure compensation, white balance, ISO, and other settings with dedicated dials and buttons on the camera body.

As you can see, the Fujifilm XE2 and the 18mm f2 lens are a great pair for street photography. They allow you to capture the beauty and spontaneity of life on the streets with ease and style. If you are interested in this setup, you can find more information and reviews online or visit your local camera store to try it out for yourself.

Homelessness and photographing homeless people: Old Man Series.

cambodia, homelessness, opinons, thoughts, photography, pictures, street, Travel

Homelessness is a major public health and social problem that affects millions of people around the world. It is often associated with poverty, mental illness, substance abuse, and social exclusion. Homelessness can have devastating consequences for individuals and communities, such as increased risk of disease, violence, crime, and stigma. In this post, I will explore the ethical issues of photographing homeless people, and whether it is a form of art or exploitation, or just documentation of the reality.

Street photography is a genre of photography that captures candid moments of everyday life in public spaces. It can be seen as a way of documenting the diversity and complexity of human society, as well as expressing one’s artistic vision and creativity. Street photography can also raise awareness of social issues and challenge stereotypes and prejudices. However, street photography also involves ethical dilemmas, such as respecting the privacy and dignity of the subjects, obtaining consent, and avoiding harm.

One of the most controversial topics in street photography is photographing homeless people. Homeless people are often visible in urban environments, and they may attract the attention of photographers who want to capture their stories, emotions, or conditions. However, photographing homeless people also raises questions of morality, responsibility, and sensitivity. Is it okay to take photographs of homeless people without their permission? Is it okay to use their images for personal or commercial purposes? Is it okay to portray them in a way that reinforces negative stereotypes or exploits their vulnerability?

There is no definitive answer to these questions, as different photographers may have different motivations, intentions, and perspectives. Some photographers may argue that photographing homeless people is a form of art that reveals the harsh realities of society and humanizes the marginalized. They may claim that they are doing a service to the public by raising awareness and empathy for the homeless population. They may also assert that they have the right to freedom of expression and that they are not breaking any laws by taking photos in public spaces.

Other photographers may argue that photographing homeless people is a form of exploitation that violates their privacy and dignity. They may claim that they are taking advantage of their situation and exposing them to further harm or humiliation. They may also assert that they have a duty to respect the wishes and feelings of the homeless people and that they should seek their consent before taking or using their photos.

There is no easy solution to this ethical dilemma, as different situations may require different approaches. However, some general guidelines that may help photographers make ethical decisions are:

Consider the purpose and context of your photography. Why do you want to photograph homeless people? What message do you want to convey? How will you use or share your photos? How will your photos affect the homeless people and the public?
Consider the impact and consequences of your photography. How will your photos affect the well-being and safety of the homeless people? How will your photos affect their self-esteem and dignity? How will your photos affect their relationships with others? How will your photos affect their chances of getting help or support?
Consider the consent and participation of the homeless people. Have you asked for their permission before taking or using their photos? Have you explained your purpose and intentions clearly? Have you respected their right to say no or change their mind? Have you involved them in the process or given them any benefits or compensation?
Consider the representation and portrayal of the homeless people. How do you depict them in your photos? Do you show them as individuals with unique personalities and stories? Do you show them as part of a larger social problem or phenomenon? Do you show them with respect and empathy or with pity and judgment?
Consider the alternatives and options available to you. Are there other ways to achieve your goals without photographing homeless people? Are there other subjects or topics that you can photograph instead? Are there other ways to support or help homeless people besides photographing them?

Photographing homeless people is not inherently wrong or right, but it is a complex and sensitive issue that requires careful thought and reflection. Photographers should be aware of the ethical implications of their actions and choices, and strive to balance their artistic expression with their social responsibility. Photographers should also be open to feedback and criticism from others, especially from the homeless people themselves, who have the right to voice their opinions and preferences about how they are photographed.

***Street photography is a form of artistic expression that captures candid moments of people in public places. However, it also raises ethical questions about the rights and interests of the subjects who may not be aware of or consent to being photographed. Different countries have different laws regarding street photography, but in general, it is legal to photograph people in public without their permission as long as the images are not used for commercial purposes or defame the subjects. However, some street photographers may prefer to ask for consent either before or after taking a photograph, depending on their style and intention. Asking for consent before photographing can help build rapport and trust with the subject, but it may also affect the spontaneity and naturalness of the image. Asking for consent after photographing can allow the photographer to capture a more authentic and unposed moment, but it may also risk upsetting or offending the subject who may not want their image to be used or published. Therefore, street photographers need to balance their artistic freedom with their ethical responsibility and respect for their subjects. They also need to be aware of the potential consequences of their actions and be prepared to delete or blur the images if the subjects request so. Street photography can be a rewarding and challenging form of art, but it also requires sensitivity and discretion***.

What Camera equipment is essential when travelling

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

If you love photography and travel, you might wonder what essential camera equipment you need to pack when travelling light. Travelling light means carrying only the most necessary items that will allow you to capture the best shots of your destination without compromising your comfort and mobility.

Here are some tips on how to choose the right camera equipment for travelling light.

First, you need to decide what kind of camera you want to use. There are many types of cameras available, such as DSLRs, mirrorless, compact, action, and smartphone cameras. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on your preferences, budget, and skill level. For example, DSLRs offer the best image quality and versatility, but they are also bulky and heavy. Mirrorless cameras are smaller and lighter than DSLRs, but they still have interchangeable lenses and good performance. Compact cameras are easy to use and fit in your pocket, but they have limited zoom and low-light capabilities. Action cameras are great for capturing videos and extreme sports, but they have a fixed wide-angle lens and poor audio quality. Smartphone cameras are convenient and always with you, but they have limited battery life and storage space.

Second, you need to choose the right lenses for your camera. Lenses are the most important part of your camera equipment, as they determine the quality and style of your photos. However, lenses can also be heavy and expensive, so you need to be selective about which ones to bring. A good rule of thumb is to bring one or two lenses that cover a wide range of focal lengths and situations. For example, you can bring a standard zoom lens (such as 18-55mm or 24-70mm) that can handle landscapes, portraits, and street photography. You can also bring a prime lens (such as 35mm or 50mm) that has a fast aperture and can create beautiful bokeh effects. Alternatively, you can bring a superzoom lens (such as 18-200mm or 28-300mm) that can cover everything from wide-angle to telephoto shots.

Third, you need to consider the accessories that will enhance your photography experience. Accessories are the items that will help you protect, stabilize, charge, store, and edit your photos. However, accessories can also add weight and bulk to your luggage, so you need to prioritize the ones that are most useful and essential. For example, you should always bring a camera bag or case that will protect your camera and lenses from dust, water, and impact. You should also bring a tripod or a monopod that will help you capture sharp and steady shots in low-light conditions or with long exposures. You should also bring extra batteries and memory cards that will ensure you have enough power and storage space for your photos. You should also bring a cleaning kit that will help you keep your camera and lenses clean from dust and smudges. You should also bring a laptop or a tablet that will allow you to back up, edit, and share your photos.

These are some of the essential camera equipment you need to pack when travelling light. By choosing the right camera equipment for your needs and preferences, you can enjoy taking amazing photos of your travels without sacrificing your comfort and mobility.

Travelling with a Camera

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

Travelling with a camera is one of the most rewarding and exciting ways to explore the world. Whether you are a professional photographer or a hobbyist, a camera can help you capture the beauty, the diversity, and the stories of different places and people. A camera can also help you express your creativity, your perspective, and your emotions through your images.

There are many benefits of travelling with a camera. First of all, it can enhance your travel experience by making you more observant, curious, and adventurous. You will notice more details, appreciate more colours, and seek more opportunities to interact with your surroundings. You will also have more memories to cherish and share with others. Secondly, it can improve your photography skills by exposing you to different lighting conditions, landscapes, cultures, and subjects. You will learn how to adapt to various situations, how to compose your shots, how to use different techniques and settings, and how to tell a story with your photos. Thirdly, it can enrich your personal growth by challenging you to step out of your comfort zone, overcome your fears, and discover new aspects of yourself. You will also develop a deeper appreciation for the diversity and beauty of the world and its people.

Travelling with a camera is not always easy, though. You may face some challenges and difficulties along the way. For example, you may have to deal with the weight and bulkiness of your equipment, the security and safety of your gear and yourself, the ethical and cultural issues of photographing people and places, the environmental impact of your actions, and the expectations and pressures of producing good photos. Therefore, you need to be prepared, respectful, responsible, and flexible when travelling with a camera.

Here are some tips that can help you make the most out of your travel photography:

Do some research before you go. Learn about the destination’s history, culture, customs, weather, attractions, and events. This will help you plan your itinerary, choose your locations, find your subjects, and avoid any potential problems or misunderstandings.
Pack light and smart. Choose a camera that suits your needs and preferences, and bring only the essential accessories and equipment. Consider using a backpack or a sling bag that can protect your gear from dust, water, and theft. Also bring some spare batteries, memory cards, chargers, adapters, and cleaning tools.
Be respectful and polite. Always ask for permission before photographing people or private property. Respect their wishes if they decline or ask for compensation. Smile and say thank you after taking their photos. Avoid photographing sensitive or sacred sites or ceremonies unless you have permission or an invitation. Follow the local rules and regulations regarding photography.
Be creative and adventurous. Experiment with different angles, perspectives, focal lengths, apertures, shutter speeds, ISOs, filters, modes, and effects. Try to capture the mood, the atmosphere, the emotion, and the story of each scene. Don’t be afraid to explore new places or try new things.
Have fun and enjoy yourself. Don’t let photography become a burden or a stressor for you or others. Don’t obsess over getting the perfect shot or missing an opportunity. Don’t compare yourself to others or judge yourself harshly. Remember that photography is a form of art and expression that reflects your unique vision and personality.

Travelling with a camera is a wonderful way to experience the world in a different light. It can open your eyes to new possibilities,
inspire you to learn new things,
and connect you to new people.
It can also help you create lasting memories that you can treasure for a lifetime.
So grab your camera,
pack your bags,
and start your adventure!

In Camera Cropping.

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

In-camera cropping is a term that refers to composing your photos with your camera, rather than cropping them later on a computer. Some photographers prefer this method, as it allows them to create more interesting compositions, achieve better background blur, and preserve the image quality and file size. However, in-camera cropping also requires more skill and confidence, as you have to decide on the final framing before you take the shot.

Other photographers like to crop their photos during post-production, as it gives them more flexibility and room for experimentation. Cropping on a computer can help you improve a poor composition, remove distracting elements, or alter the aspect ratio of your photo. You can also try different crops and see which one works best for your image. However, cropping on a computer also has some drawbacks, such as reducing the number of pixels in your image, affecting its clarity and printability.

So, is in-camera cropping right or wrong? There is no definitive answer to this question, as different photographers have different opinions and preferences. Some may argue that in-camera cropping is more authentic and artistic, while others may say that cropping on a computer is more practical and creative. Ultimately, it depends on your personal style, vision, and goals. The best way to find out what works for you is to experiment with both methods and see how they affect your photos.

Angkor Wat: A Wonder of the World

angkor, cambodia, opinons, thoughts, photography, Travel

Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place that is both ancient and majestic, where you can marvel at the beauty and craftsmanship of a bygone civilization? If so, then you should definitely add Angkor Wat to your bucket list. Angkor Wat is the largest and most famous temple complex in Cambodia, and one of the most impressive monuments in the world. In this blog post, I will tell you why you should visit Angkor Wat, what to expect when you get there, and some tips to make your trip unforgettable.

Angkor Wat was built in the 12th century by King Suryavarman II as a Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu, the supreme god of the universe. It was later converted into a Buddhist temple in the 16th century, and remains an active place of worship today. The temple covers an area of about 200 hectares, and consists of five towers arranged in a quincunx pattern, surrounded by a moat and three concentric galleries. The temple is richly decorated with carvings, sculptures, and bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, history, and culture.

One of the most amazing features of Angkor Wat is its alignment with the sun. The temple is oriented to the west, which is unusual for Hindu temples, and has been interpreted as a symbol of death and rebirth. On certain days of the year, such as the spring and autumn equinoxes, the sun rises directly behind the central tower, creating a stunning spectacle of light and shadow. Many visitors flock to Angkor Wat early in the morning to witness this phenomenon and capture it on camera.

Another reason to visit Angkor Wat is to explore its surroundings. Angkor Wat is part of a larger complex called Angkor Archaeological Park, which covers an area of about 400 square kilometers and contains hundreds of other temples, palaces, and monuments from different periods and styles. Some of the most notable ones are Bayon, with its giant stone faces; Ta Prohm, with its trees growing over the ruins; and Banteay Srei, with its delicate carvings. You can spend days wandering around these ancient wonders and discovering their secrets.

To make your trip to Angkor Wat more enjoyable and memorable, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Plan your visit ahead. Angkor Wat is very popular among tourists, so it can get crowded and hot during peak hours. To avoid the crowds and enjoy the best views, try to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon. You can also buy your tickets online or at one of the official ticket offices to save time.

Dress appropriately. Angkor Wat is a sacred site, so you should respect its rules and customs. You should wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, and avoid wearing hats or sunglasses inside the temple. You should also remove your shoes before entering any building or chamber.
Hire a guide. Angkor Wat has a lot of history and symbolism that can be hard to understand without some explanation. You can hire a guide at the entrance or book one online to learn more about the temple and its stories. A guide can also help you navigate the complex and find the best spots for photos.
Respect the environment. Angkor Wat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means it is protected by international law and regulations. You should not touch, climb, or damage any part of the temple or its artifacts. You should also not litter or feed any animals that live in the area. You should be mindful of your impact on this precious area.

Phnom Penh

cambodia, opinons, thoughts, photography, Travel

If you are looking for a vibrant and diverse destination in Southeast Asia, you should definitely consider visiting Phnom Penh, the capital and largest city of Cambodia. Phnom Penh is a city that combines ancient history, colonial charm, and modern development. Here are some of the reasons why you should add Phnom Penh to your travel bucket list.

Phnom Penh has a rich and complex history that spans centuries. The city was founded in 1372 by a woman named Lady Penh, who discovered a sacred statue of Buddha on the banks of the Mekong River. The city became the royal capital of the Khmer Empire in 1434 and remained so until 1497. During the French colonial era, Phnom Penh was known as the “Pearl of Asia” for its beautiful architecture and cultural attractions. However, the city also witnessed some of the darkest chapters of Cambodia’s history, such as the Khmer Rouge regime and the genocide that killed millions of people in the 1970s. Today, Phnom Penh is a thriving metropolis that is undergoing rapid economic and social transformation.

Phnom Penh has a lot to offer to travelers who are interested in culture, art, and religion. The city is home to some of the most impressive temples, palaces, and museums in Cambodia. You can visit the Royal Palace, which is still the residence of the king and the queen, and admire its golden roofs and ornate decorations. You can also see the Silver Pagoda, which houses a stunning collection of Buddha statues made of gold, silver, jade, and crystal. Another must-see attraction is the National Museum, which displays thousands of artifacts from the Angkorian and pre-Angkorian periods. If you want to learn more about Cambodia’s recent history, you can visit the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Choeung Ek Killing Fields, which are both sobering reminders of the atrocities committed by the Khmer Rouge.

Phnom Penh is also a great place to enjoy some of the best food, shopping, and nightlife in Cambodia. The city has a diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural influences. You can sample some of the local specialties, such as amok (fish curry steamed in banana leaves), lok lak (stir-fried beef with lime sauce), and kuy teav (noodle soup with pork and seafood). You can also try some of the international cuisines, such as French, Chinese, Indian, Thai, and Vietnamese. For shopping, you can head to the Central Market or the Russian Market, where you can find everything from souvenirs, handicrafts, clothes, jewelry, antiques, and electronics. For nightlife, you can explore the many bars, clubs, pubs, and karaoke venues that line the streets of Phnom Penh.

Phnom Penh is a city that will surprise you with its diversity, vitality, and charm. It is a city that will make you feel welcome with its friendly people and warm hospitality. It is a city that will inspire you with its resilience and optimism. It is a city that will make you fall in love with Cambodia.

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this:

Share this: