Black is back

NATATANGING LARAWANG PINOY CONTEST NO. 23 - Black is Back
Winner: Jobarracuda



1. Please give us a brief background information about yourself.
I am basically a newbie in this field. I started photography last December 2006 when I bought myself a point and shoot bridge camera – Lumix fz50 and joined flickr the same month. I’ve worked in various field and in various positions…artist for 2 years, creative director for 9 years, ad & promo officer in an office handling casinos for 2 years and science and computer teacher for 2 years.

2. Is photography a full-time job or is it a hobby? and how long have you been in photography?
It started as a hobby but has become a passion for me now. I’ll be approaching my 2nd year in photography this coming December.

3. What inspired you to capture this winning photo? Please give a brief description about it.
I love taking photos of old people the same way I love taking photos of kids. The moment I saw that old lady, I immediately knew I wanted to take photos of her. I sat down a few feet away from her so I could observe her. I took out my cam and waited for a good moment to capture her.

4. Did you have any professional training in photography?
No I don’t have any professional training in photography, although I want to, if given the chance.

5. How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date?
I keep just keep on shooting and learn as I shoot. It helps a lot as well that I am surrounded with skillful and talented friends.

6. What is the most memorable experience you have in photography?
The stories behind some of my fave photos are very meaningful to me. Some of those I still read over and over again. Some are still making me cry when I read them. Those are special moments and experiences for me as a photographer. Of course I cherish the times I won in competitions. To be recognized in the field you love, even in small ways, makes you love what you’re doing all the more.

7.What are your gadgets and what software are you using to post process your works?
I have a Panasonic Lumix Fz50 and a Nikon D40x with kit lens. I use Photoshop CS2 to process.

8. What is your thought on post processing photos?
I don’t have any problems with post-processing. I try to satisfy myself with the photos I take and the way it would look, whether with or without post-processing. I think not doing post-processing and criticizing those who are doing it, or vice-versa, is not good for photography itself. Development in technology is so fast nowadays. We have to embrace the developments in photography…whether in camera gear or post processing the images…film or digital. I salute those who are pure in their photography and does not process their shots, the same way I salute those who are good in post-processing their images.

9. In which category of photography are you most interested and why?
I love images of human interests, street life and scenes, and street portraits.

10. What will be the best advice you would give to a beginner / amateurs photographers?
Determine what you want to shoot and just shoot. Find ways to shoot. Invite others to shoot with you and oblige if you can when they invite you. It is always a big learning experience to shoot with others…..beginner, amateur or even a pro. There’s always something to pick up from somebody.

Please include 3 of your most favorite images from your stream, and give a short description if possible as to why it's your fave shot.


Muslim Girl

This photo is one of most treasured photos I have. I love the story behind it. It won in various group competition in lickr and this has been exhibited in Philippine Arts Festival in Hong Kong, Art Fest in Chicago and Charity-In-Focus in Icosahedron New York (the photo was bought by an individual and the money was donated to a charity of my choice).

To Give Or Not To Give, That Is The Question

I love looking at this photo over and over again and it always bring a smile on my face. I am so thankful I have captured this instance.

Batang 888

This photo has recently won me a Toshiba Laptop Computer. With or without the award it received, I love this image for the emotion it projects.


_______
Thanks to Debbie, a.k.a. Shininglyt for the interview!

Mystery and Drama

NATATANGING LARAWANG PINOY CONTEST NO. 22 - Mystery and Drama
Winner: Frozenjester



Meet JP Alcaraz aka frozenjester of Meycauayan, Bulacan. JP is currently in Singapore working as a video editor in a production house

Hi photography journey started a little more than a year ago (Sep 2007 to be exact). “ I think most OFWs will agree with me when I say that you need to have something else to occupy your time aside from work in order to keep your sanity, being so far away from home *Hikbi*”, JP added.

The winning shot was taken at a beach in Zambales. This was during the time when he was at the peak of his addiction shooting sunsets. Fortunately, when he was looking for a foreground for the sunset, he saw Mang Jerry (the fisherman) who happened to be waiting for the sun to go down so he can go out into the open sea and catch fish. JP added, “I don't remember being inspired when I shot this, I just felt intrigued by the scene it created so I thought I'd capture it. Good thing I did because if not, I'd not be having this article.”

Like most amateurs, he started from scratch and learned the ropes by reading materials on the net. “If you ask me, the internet is such a goldmine when it comes to learning everything there is to know in photograpy. But then again, nothing beats going out in a group to shoot, comparing notes and swapping techniques along the way”, JP added.

“Ok I have to admit, nothing in my body of work is absolutely original. What I do is sort of "cut and paste" a little bit of techniques from diferent photographers and try to come up with my own signature, so to speak. I have this big dream that there will come a time when I can create enough of this signature so that when someone takes a look at my photo, they'll instantly recognize that it was me who did it.”

His work as a video editor and graphic artist helped him keep abreast with all the latest techniques in composing a good shot. He feels fortunate that his work allows him to be exposed on videos and footage created by professionals.

His most memorable experience in Photography was during a road trip to Pagudpud with his close friends, who are working abroad as well but are at home the same time as he is. “Having a shoot with a group is special enough, but shooting with your best buddies is something else altogether. All of us were just starting out in our common hobby, so everyone is learning from everybody while having the time of our lives in doing so. This so far, is my most memorable experience, which I hope will be trumped by another experience with the same group of friends in the near future.” JP added.


When asked what are your gadgets and what software that he is using to post process your works? “I started out with a Nikon D40 with an 18-55mm kit lens. Then I sold this (which is one of my regrets) and upgraded to a D200. Since then I have added a couple of lenses to my collection - Nikon 50mm F/1.8, macro 60mm F/2.8, 18-135mm F/3.5, 70-300mm VR F/3.5, Tokina 11-24 F/2.8. For my post processsing needs, I use Photoshop CS3.” - JP

For JP, post processing should only be done to help you reach the feel that you want to achieve in a photo because if you go too far, like compositing or something too drastic, he felt you defeat the purpose of shooting.

He always wanted to dabble in photo-journalism. However, Singapore doesn't offer much in this department, it is too orderly for its own good. “So if there's a major rally going on there, EDSA 5 or something similar, just let me know and I'll be on the next plane to Manila.” JP jokingly added.

When ask what will be the best advice you would give to a beginner / amateurs photographers? JP says “I think, at this point, I am in no position to give advices for I am also an amateur and still have loads to learn about the beautiful art of photography. So I'll just echo to them what I always hear from those people I look up to, which is - Just keep on shooting, no matter what. With enough patience and enthusiasm, you'll learn so much in no time. Of course, remember the first rule in photography: read
your camera manual first.”


3 of his most favorite images from his stream

Klang Klang

She's always my favorite subject. Photo was taken in La Luz, Batangas. A memorable photo also because it won my first competition here in Flickr.You can check it out here.


Home

This photo was taken in Batam, Indonesia, it was my first time then in Indonesia. This is also my most viewed, most favorited and most commented in my photostream.


The dragon has landed

I would consider this photo as my first successful macro shot. I always wondered how they capture macro shots until I did one. This has been my highest-ranking photo in Flickr
Explore - 72nd position on July 26, 2008.

....
Thanks to Light Stalker for this article

Buhay Lansangan

NATATANGING LARAWANG PINOY CONTEST NO. 21 - Buhay Lansangan
Winner: rempleo



1. Please give us a brief background information about yourself.

Hi, I'm Roland Empleo.. but friends just call me Roe. I belong to a group of 3 young architects enganging in residential, commercial and hospitality designs (like spa and hotels). We also build some projects that we design.

2. Is photography a full-time job or is it a hobby? and how long have you been in photography?

Right now it's just a serious hobby.. but I'm setting my mind to venture into professional photography.

3. What inspired you to capture this winning photo? Please give a brief description about it.

I wasn't really into street photography before... not that I don't like it.. but it's just not my forte. But seeing these kids, basically living on a park in front of the Binondo church, makes my heart cringe.. I realized that my being adamant to street photography before is not because I don't like shooting street or poor people.. but because they affect me so much. I guess it was just the right time for me to accept their reality and capture them through photography.

4. Did you have any professional training in photography?

Yes, before... when I started being serious with photography, I enrolled in the basic photography workshops offered by FPPF in Fort Santiago back in 2001. I was still using Film back then.. the only DSLR I saw before was from the instructors.. But I never really had the time to enjoy photography before due to my work.. I eventually stopped shooting back in 2003.

5. How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date?

Before, I would collect books and magazines regarding photography.. then later, I became friends with some of my instructors and other great photographers, and I would request in assisting them in their shoot from time to time...to learn from actual experience.. and to pick their minds about this profession...

But since my 5 year hiatus from photography... my only inspiration and source of knowldege right now are the numerous talented artists in flickr.. you could learn a lot by just seeing thier work and studying how they've done it....and most of them are from my friends and contacts... so I don't have to pay for workshops anymore. hahaha...

6.What is the most memorable experience you have in photography?

I'm not sure that I have a specific one... but I guess the experience and the overwhelming feeling of having the chance to work with great photographers that I respect and Idolize.. will always be memorable for me.

7.What are your gadgets and what software are you using to post process your works?

Before, I used to own a Canon EOS Elan II film slr.. but since I didn't pay much attention to it for 5 years.. it's now unusable.. huhuhu.

Right now, I'm using a Canon EOS 40D,.. with Sigma 18-200mm as my walk around lens and some of my macro shots.. then I added a 50mm f1.8 prime for my nature and portrait shots... then just recently I bought a Canon 100mm f2.8 macro lens...

Before, I only use photoshop CS2 for basic or auto options like levels, contrasts, curves and image sizing.. but later I was introduced to Adobe Lightroom (now Version 2) and found it very useful in editing raw files.

8. What is your thought on post processing photos?

I don't mind post processing.. I do it also sometimes... But personally, I don't want to over process my photos.. I always try my best to compose my shot through the camera so i wouldn't need to bother myself in tweaking it through PP.. and besides, I only know the basics in PP..hehehe.. although sometimes, I do make some experiments with it, just to see what other image I can create with my photos.

9. In which category of photography are you most interested and why?

Even before, I dont have any specifics on my subject or any form of specialty.. I'm still learning and it's still way far for me to have a specialty.. But I would love to hone my skill with Architectural and Fashion Photography.

Architectural, because it coincides with my profession.. and Fashion, because I just love beautiful women.. hehehe.. but seriously, I love bringing out the different personality of the model through photography.. it's just amazing how many characters you can create with just a photograph.

10. What will be the best advice you would give to a beginner / amateurs photographers?

To never stop learning.. to start looking at the world in a different view..... and alaways find beauty in every little thing that you can see.. that's how you can hone your eyes to photography and creativity... because taking a photograph is different from making a photograph. any child can take a photo.. but only an artist can create an image out of it.

Three of my most favorite images from my stream.

I don't really have a favorite as of now.. but i can share with you some images that's memorable to me..

Sunset at Mabini, Batangas


This is one of my few shots from my old film slr.. already lost the negative years ago.. this is just a scan.. It's a memorable shot and place for me because it's our get away place.. me and my college friends love staying here and around those islands. and this sunset capture is one of my few good outputs from my film days.


dawn at Palawan...


This one is really memorable because it's taken on my first trip in Palawan in March of this year.. I just fell in love with this beach in Sabang.. I was still using a P&S back then...


waiting...


This one is my very first explored photo.. I didn't even know that I have one.. only after a month when I've learned about explore. I'm just proud of it because it one of my first close-up shots with my 18-55mm kit lens.. just bought my camera that time... and it made explore on just my 2nd week in flickr...with just 15 comments and 25 views...
.....
Thanks to Bobby a.k.a. Birdman@22 for the interview.

Pinoy Kainan

NATATANGING LARAWANG PINOY CONTEST #20 - Pinoy Kainan/ Handaan
WINNER: Dengski



1. Please give us a brief background information about yourself.
I am Fr. Dennis S. Soriano, a Catholic Priest of the Diocese of Cubao. I am currently assigned as parish priest of Transfiguration of Our Lord parish, in Murphy, Quezon City. I was born in Bulacan and was raised in Caloocan.

2. Is photography a full-time job or is it a hobby?
Photography is a hobby. I just got into it seriously January 2008.

3. What inspires you to capture this winning photo?
The photo was taken from a Young Leaders' Camp, called JAM [or Jesus and Me], which is designed to invite young people to get more actively involved  in church. This "boodle fight" forms part of the activity for day two. I just love the effect of dof.

4. Did you have any professional training in photography?
No professional training yet, but very much wanting to have one. May be in the near future.

5. How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date?
I have been reading books about the basics of photography. I have John Hedgecoe's New Book on Photography and his The Art of Colour Photography. I also have Teach Yourself Photography and Icons of Photography 20th Century.

Flickr is an important source of updating too. If I have time, I read fora and threads about photography.

6.What is the most memorable experience you have in photography?
Being interviewed about photography - this is definitely unforgettable. Also, I will never forget the first time I was asked for a permission by magazine to use my photo. Although nothing came out of it. But being asked is memorable enough.

7.What are your gadgets and what software are you using to post process your works?
I am currently using a Nikon D40x with kit lense 18-50 mm. I just recently got a Sigma 18-200 mm.

8. What is your thought on post processing photos?
Minimal, as much as possible. There is a different high in capturing the image with one's camera and rendering it without any necessity for post processing.

Although I do not object to post processing. I look at extremely post processed photos as artwork.

9. In which category of photography are you most interested and why?
I am currently interested in landscape, the sun, children and nature.

10. What will be the best advice you would give to a beginner / amateurs photographers?
This is the best advise I found so far: "It's not the pana but the indian" This is the second best advice: "Practice. Practice, Practice."



This is in Calvary Hill, Iguig, Cagayan Province. This is one of the first images I took when I got my D40x last January. We were scheduled to arrive here much earlier but delays made our departure much later. It was a blessing in disguise. We arrived in Calvary Hills as the sun was setting. Perfect!



This my niece Alex; my first try with children's portraits and black and white treatment. After taking this image, I realized how eloquent children's eyes can be. This started my interest in children's portraits.



This is one of several morning shots that I have. It was taken right outside my convent and a few minutes before I celebrate my 6 AM Mass. That is how I usually take my sunrise shots; looking forward for more beautiful mornings.

....
Thanks to: Ron Miguel for the interview.

Pinoy Affection

NATATANGING LARAWANG PINOY CONTEST #19 - Pinoy Affection
WINNER: jeridaking



Here is a short interview about jeridaking.

1.Who are you? Please give a brief background information on yourself.
I’m Ralph Matres. 31 years old.
I live in Ormoc City in the island called Leyte
Its located in the Eastern part of Visayas. I am married with two children. Their pictures are all over my stream.

2. Tell us about the winning photo. What made you shoot the pic? What adjustments did you make on it? What do you think makes it special?
The gentleman in the photo is actually my brother. It’s part of the prenuptial session we had a week before his wedding. I used manual mode F4.5, 1/80 ISO 100. I think the “moment”, the contrast of colors and the lined up trees made this special. I also consider the whole shoot a special one. Most of the shots I liked were taken during the “magic hour”, you know just before the sun totally sets. Ahhh I remember the lighting was just perfect. By the way you can view the complete prenup set here ralphtours.multiply.com/photos/album/48/Pre_Nup_JR_and_Johannah

3. How long have you been doing photography?
Two years

4. How did you start doing photography? What got you interested in it?
I’ve always enjoyed looking at landscapes. I wanted to shoot the countryside. And when I found out that a dslr was finally within reach, I borrowed money from my mother and bought one. Until now I still own the same dslr and I still haven’t paid my mother. =)

5. Do you earn a living from photography or you do use photography as your hobby/part-time job?
Photography is a hobby, although my friends and I sometimes shoot weddings.

6. What’s your day job?
I’m actually in a transition stage right now, between being employed and self employed. From being a 15/30 guy to a God knows when guy. =)

7. Do you have special education? Did you take courses or go to a school learn photography?
No I don’t have any nor do I plan to attend classes or seminars.

8. Are you specializing in a particular area of photography? What are your favorite places/objects to shoot?
I love portraits. I love the rural life. I love to shoot farmers and fishermen.

9. Who are your big photographic influences?
I don’t seem to have any. But the works of many many people in flickr absolutely inspire me.

10. How do you educate yourself? Do you read special literature, visit photography galleries? What photo books/magazines do you have on your bookshelf?
I don’t subscribe to any of the magazines nor do I have photography books. They’re too expensive.
I’ll give you five words though…..The internet is a goldmine.

11. What equipment and software do you use (camera(s), lenses, film, etc.)?
My camera is a canon 350d, I have a 17-85is and 50mm 1.8.
I use CS2 for editing and I’ve just started using lightroom.

12. What is your opinion on post-processing, especially enhancing pictures?
I’m all for it. But I’m not going to get into a discussion because you can never be right or wrong with this topic. Its like a Nikon vs Canon thing……

13. What advice would you give someone who is interested in photography and wants to improve their photography skills?
I shouldn’t be giving any advice. I have lots to learn myself.

14. What’s the most challenging aspect of photography for you? What’s the best part of it?
There’s really nothing challenging when all you are doing is having fun….Shooting landscapes, portraits and anything else with my friends, it’s really about having a good time. The challenging aspect would be going home late to an angry wife.

The best part of photography is that I get to be featured in this blog. Now how cool is that?

Philippine Churches

NATATANGING LARAWANG PINOY CONTEST NO. 18 - Philippine Churches
Winner: Anggebarcelona



1. Tell us about yourself: (Full name, location, occupation, other hobbies etc. Pls. include the camera/len (s) you are using)

Angela Nina Francisco Barcelona of Alabang, Muntinlupa City working as; Recruitment Assistant. Hobbies are: Photography and sports. My camera is a Nikon D40 18-55mm and 55-200mm non vr lens

2. What type of photography interest you most? (Macro, portrait, b&w, panoramic, sports, etc)

As of now, anything interests me. I'm still exploring photography.

3. Tell us about the winning picture, how did you take it? (Pls. include the photo)

I was with my family during our usual bisita Iglesia. We went to the cities in Rizal. My winning entry was taken at Morong, Rizal. I just thought looking up the bell tower and took the picture. I wasn't really composing my photo. It was just accidental.



4. How did you get started with photography? Are you self taught?

I loved photography ever since. I liked it better than videos. I read a lot of books, magazines, and searched in the Internet. My mentor was my colleague who taught me everything about photography.

5. Do you have any other interesting photo(s) you wish to show us? Maybe photos that made in Explore? (Pls. include the photo)

I only have one photo that made in Explore. Here it is:



Edited by: Anggebarcelona
Interviewer: "Fishin" Rod

Philippine Flowers

NATATANGING LARAWANG PINOY CONTEST #17: Philippine Flowers
Winner: Denbote



Here is the interview of Denbote

1.Who are you? Please give a brief background information on yourself. My name is Denis Bautista, 31. I am a Civil Engineer by profession and I've been working as an OFW over the last couple of years.

2. Is photography a full-time job or is it a hobby? still a hobby but I have an utmost dream of becoming a professional photographer in the near future.

3. What got you interested in photography? Nothing in particular but what got me going was after i bought my very first digital camera, the people around me as well as online pips praised my work.

4. What keeps you interested in photography? My dream of becoming a professional photographer.

5. Did you enroll in a photography course? Yes, I took Basic and Advanced Photography Workshops at the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation where I basically won my first contests.

6. How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date? I keep on shooting, spending more time shooting that post-processing. I read books, watch online tutorials and the like.

7. Any particular book or website that you would recommend? I subscribe to Digital Photographer and I-Mag magazines, they are great sources of valuable tips on composition and CS3 techniques.

8. Tell us about your most important/unforgettable experience in learning photography. When I enrolled are FPPF's Basic Photography Workshop I challenged myself to be the best in the class, I told myself that if I am going to have a future in Photography I must top the class, and fortunately I did. My two photos won 1st (still-life) and 2nd place(portrait). The trophies I won are the most valuable possessions I have right now.

9. Tell us about your equipment and preferred photo software. What made you choose these above the others? I use Nikon D80, Nikkor and Sigma lenses and a speedlight. I chose Nikon over Canon thru friends recommendation and online discussions and reviews. Plus Nikkor lenses are much cheaper than Canon lenses and they dn't make much of a difference quality wise.

10. What is your thought on post processing photos? I think PP is a great help for photographers, I use PP software and I would recommend the use of them. But I know that nothing can replace a good composition, PP can only do so much.

11. What style or area of photography do you prefer and why? I love nature and street photography. Nature photography is all about patience with some luck. Street Photography is challenging.

12. What is the story behind your winning photo? What made you choose that particular photo from your photo set to be your contest entry? Taken in our garden, I was on the 2nd floor of our Kubo outside our house when I took the shot to attain the angle I wanted for the photo. For me this my favorite flower photo because of the nice composition and perfect exposure of the shot.

13. What advice would you give to would-be and beginner
photographers? Keep on shooting, practice makes perfect. And if you can attend at least Basic Photography seminar, go for it.

14. How do you see yourself in this art 5 years from now? Owner of a photography studio.

15. What can you say about "Published photos with No Consent?" It's a crime and the culprit must be punished.

16. Complete this sentence, and feel free to add a few sentences more: I love photography because as a person who always works away from my family, it's my cure for homesickness. Through photography I can share my experiences abroad to my family and friends. I love photography because it is a tool for spreading good information.

Pagmamahalang Pinoy

NATATANGING LARAWANG PINOY CONTEST #16: Pagmamahalang Pinoy
Winner: Birdman@22

For the third time, Birdman22 a.k.a. Bobby Kintanar won the challenge! Here is his winning photo, entitled Grandpa and Child

Tiny creatures of our Islands

NATATANGING LARAWANG PINOY CONTEST #15: Tiny creatures of our Islands
WINNER: Alj_manila



Here is the interview of Alj_manila:

1. Please share some background information about yourself.

I am Ariel Jimenez, in my 40s, a CPA by profession, grew up in Makati and currently residing at Mandaluyong City.


2. Who or what initially sparked your interest in Photography?

It was my father who introduced photography to me when I was in high school. He let me use his Minolta film SLR then. After high school I got busy with other interests and hobbies and photography took a backseat. Early this year, I saw photos taken by a friend using a digital SLR and I found them very nice. It rekindled my interest in photography.
And so the story goes.

3. What inspired you to capture this winning photo?

It was my first trip to Hardin ng Rosas and I wanted to take some bird photos. I soon realized that my 250mm is quite short for bird photography. As I was walking down the field I saw a lot of butterflies and dragonflies. I took notice of this particular dragonfly who was like in a headstand position on top of a flower. I took a lot of shots and concluded my trip happy.

4. Did you have any professional training in photography?

I took Jo Avila's basic photography workshop.

5. How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date?

I read books, read online tutorials and watch online video tutorials among others. But for me the best fun way to keep my knowledge up-to-date is to hang out with fellow photography enthusiasts and learn from each other.

6. What is the most memorable experience you have in photography?

It was in those high school days when my father used to take time and teach me photography.

7. What's in your bag of tricks? Camera equipment and post processing software(s)?

Cannon 40d, 55mm, 28-135mm, 55-250mm. I use Photoshop CS3 for post-processing.

8. Please give us your take on post processing photos. Are you for it or against it?

I find post processed photos amazing. I admire those who know much about PP. I also know of some photographers who are against and don't do any PP on their photos.
I'd say I'm somewhere in the middle. I am for PP only to enhance and bring out the beauty of a shot. I am not for major alterations of a photo.

9. What type of photography is most interesting to you and why?

Presently I like sports/action photography best because I like the thrill of being able to capture the action at it's precise moment. I also find landscape and macro photography interesting.

10. What is the best advice you could give to a novice photographer?

Have FUN.


**********
Thanks to Roe Empleo for the interview!

Near a body of Water

NATATANGING LARAWANG PINOY CONTEST #14: Subjects Must be in or near a body of Water

For this contest, we have declared 2 winners: Sue323 and MalNino

Golden Ember by MalNino


View from the String by Sue323


Here is a short interview about Sue323:

1. Please share some background information about yourself.
I am a nurse by profession. I've been living here in Finland for almost 3 years. I started taking digital images in the spring of 2007 using a Canon PowerShot A540

2. Who or what initially sparked your interest in Photography?
In the late 90s' I took loads of sunset photos using a small film camera. Being able to capture something so beautiful just felt great.I never had the time to learn anything about photography then, I thought that it's quite time-consuming and an expensive hobby.

3. What inspired you to capture this winning photo? Please give a brief description about it.
It was taken during my vacation. We were in Boracay, the weather was great. I wanted to take a macro shot of the string of the bikini that I was wearing then, because I like its colour (fushia) I figured that it would be nice if the background would be the clear blue water. So I held the camera behind the knot of my bikini and took a few shots.My husband said that I looked like I was taking photos of my butt. And I said: Nah, it's just the string.

4. Did you have any professional training in photography?
No.

5. How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date?
I take photos almost everyday. I read blogs of professional photographers.

6. What is the most memorable experience you have in photography?
It was last summer (July 2007) my best friend came from London and we took photos like crazy. She told me to press the tulip button on my camera if I want to take close up pics.. we also stalked bees together.

7. What’s in your bag of tricks? Camera equipment and post processing software(s)?
I don't have much. I've been using a Canon Powershot A710 IS since last year. I have Photoshop 6.0 which I only use to adjust some levels like brighness, contrast.. sometimes colour levels.. I don't know much about it, really.. it looks too complicated for me. I also use Neat Image sometimes.

8. Please give us your take on post processing photos. Are you for it or against it? How much of it do you do on your own images?
I am not against it. I admire those who are well versed in that aspect. Since I lack that skill, I can't apply much of it to my photos.

9. What type of photography is most intresting to you and why?
Macrophotography. Insect macrophotography to be specific. It's very challenging.

10. What is the best advice you could give to a novice photographer?
I am a novice myself. I think if one wants to improve, it's important to practice, challenge yourself, listen & get used to criticism. Elbert Hubbard, an American editor once said “To avoid criticism, do nothing, say nothing, and be nothing.” Who wants to be nothing, anyhow?

....
Thanks to Filam61 for the interview!

Guitars

Photographer: Bobby Kintanar
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 13 : Color-filled

Once again, Bobby bagged the 13th Natatatanging LP contest. Congratulations, Bobby!

Pico de Loro, Cavite

Photographer: Diyeson
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 12 : Philippine Landscapes



Here is a short interview about Diyeson:

1.Please give us a brief background information about yourself.

I’m 35, a graphic designer. I started taking pictures when I was in 4th grade, at 22 I processed my first roll of film and printed the three frames that survived that disaster of a first try. My first digital camera was a pocket book (imagine Bourne Identity that bid) size Fujifilm camera a dizzying 1.3megapixel ( this was several years before S1). I am from Laguna.

2.Is photography a full-time job or is it a hobby? and how long have you been in photography?

Yes, it is full time but more of a volunteer work than a job; it is also my hobby for more than 20 years.

3.What inspired you to capture this winning photo? Please give a brief description about it.

The street Children: It was taken in Baclaran, when I saw them I ask a stranger why did she let them sleep there, it is 12:00 noon. The vendor told me they are not her children and they were sitting there since morning. The shock I felt probably made me do it.

The landscape: I never thought I’ll ever see something like this in Cavite; it took my breath away.

4.Did you have any professional training in photography?
I attend Photoworld almost regularly.

5.How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date?
A lot of practice of course and the internet.

6.What is the most memorable experience you have in photography?
I was eleven; my uncle gave me a Canon with 50mm lens, that simple gesture of kindness started it all.

7.What are your gadgets and what software are you using to post process your works?
D300, 70-200VR, 17-55mm and of course 55mm nikor micro manual Ai (favorite). Photoshop since version 4.

8.What is your thought on post processing photos?
The digital darkroom simply put. Part of the art. Developing picture digitally. Very cool.

9.In which category of photography are you most interested and why?
Landscape: I love hiking and mountain climbing.
Photojourn: I like to tell stories
Macro: It’s a different world entirely

10.What will be the best advice you would give to a beginner / amateurs photographers?
Always bring a camera. It doesn’t matter if it’s a compact just bring one

Gandang Pilipina

Photographer: Antonio Genovia
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 11 :Gandang Pilipina

Please give us a brief background information about yourself.

My name is Antonio Genovia, a resident of Morgan Hill, Ca. A business owner, and I am currently working in Century Helicopters. Grow up here in the states, I finished my schooling in the Philippines in the medical field of Physical Therapy.

Is photography a full-time job or is it a hobby? and how long have you been in photography?

I bought my first SLR (Canon Rebel Xti) as a gift to my fiance for Christmas. A later, I paid someone to take a picture of my car, I did not like how the picture was composed and treated, so on Nov. 8. 2007 I went out and took a picture of my car.

I have been selling my photos, I market myself. My first sold photo, was a shot that I took of Corey Ness motorcycle the son of Arlen Ness, I got paid $30.00. I knew then that this "Flickr" thing works to my advantage, and I am starting to believe that I might have a talent in photography.

What inspired you to capture this winning photo? Please give a brief description about it.

My first taste of strobe, with my friends. Lightstalker, and Kudaker. I was so frustrated during this shot, because I did not know what I was doing. I chose to enter this photo, because it had the elements of a Filipina. I treated it with selective colors to bring out her face, so the viewers are drawn to the face, specially to the eyes.

Did you have any professional training in photography? How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date?

The only professional training that I have is in Century Helicopter Products, were I work. We have a studio and my manager influenced me into photography, and has been a fruit of technology, like "You tube."

I record all of the treatments, I like to experiment. I can spend a day experimenting new treatments, and I subscribe to Photoshop magazine.

What is the most memorable experience you have in photography?

My memorable experience in photography is when someone told me that I do not know how to take pictures, I lack the know how, my treatments where not that good. That has been my memorable negative experience. My positive memorable experience are all posted in my stream.

What are your gadgets and what software are you using to post process your works? What is your thought on post processing photos?

I use Lightroom, CS3, Photomatix, and Noise Ninja.

Post Processing is done to convey a story for it brings out dramatic colors. Recently I had date with a known wedding photographer, he gave me a lot of good insights. "Natural treatment makes money in the world of photography, but you still have to reserve your skills in post processing, for advertising purposes"

In which category of photography are you most interested and why?

I like street photography, and street fashion photography. I like this field in photography, because to some it is not easy to talk to strangers, or to talk to a pretty woman that might be walking on the street. I like to capture life in its true essence.

What will be the best advice you would give to a beginner / amateurs photographers?

My advice to those that just started in photography.
1) Have fun.
2) Have lots of it.
We become who we are, when we exert a little extra effort.

Manila Bay

Photographer: Bert Barandino
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 10 : Sa Bayan Ko Lang 'To!




Please give us a brief background information about yourself.

I am Bert Barandino, I’m 28 now. I’m an Architect by profession currently working here in Jeddah, KSA for almost 3 years now. I just got married last December, it was my vacation and just got back here last February.

Is photography a full-time job or is it a hobby? and how long have you been in photography?

Just a hobby. Actually nakahiligan ko ang graphic designs, since matuto ako ng photoshop marami na akong gustong i-explore. Sandamakmak ang tutorial na dinadownload ko para basahin. By God’s grace, natuto naman ako. A year and a half ago, nagbalak akong bumili ng digicam (Sony-Cybershot W50) dahil kasi nagpaplano na kami ng akyat sa Mt. Pulag noon pag-uwi ko, yun yung una kong bakasyon simula ng dumating ako dito. Parang natuwa ako sa resulta ng mga kuha ko kaya lalo pa kong na-inspire na kumuha ng ideya kung paano ko pa mapapaganda yung mga kuha ko.

What inspired you to capture this winning photo?

There is no secret ingredient, just like what Po’s father said (Kung Fu Panda). There is no inspiration actually, I was just roaming around in Manila Bay with my camera after I dropped by in our wedding venue. I am not that yet active in Flickr at that time to think about that it will get a lot comments or it will be viewed by a lot of people, for some I guess they think that way. I just wanted to share and treasure it, that’s all.

Did you have any professional training in photography?

Nothing. I just read some tips and learn from it. Just like what they said watch and educate yourself.

How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date?

I do not know about updating. I just don’t have yet my signature capture. What I like is, I want to have my own style/techinique or own trademark though it is not that simple to achieve.

What is the most memorable experience you have in photography?

Winning in this Natatanging Larawan Contest is already a memorable experience to me.

What is your thought on post processing photos?

Post-processing is a very good tool for enhancing photos specially to those who have made their names known. Besides, I think nobody can live without post-processing their photos where everything is digital nowadays.

In which category of photography are you most interested and why?

Digital photography, landscapes, seascapes, portraits and animal.

What will be the best advice you would give to a beginner / amateurs photographers?

Do what you think that gives you happiness and contentment in every snap of your shutter. You don’t have to please anybody with your photos rather than yourself first and everything else will follows.

Symmetry

Photographer: Bobby Kintanar
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 9 : Reflections

The following is an interview of LP Week 9 Winner, Bobby Kintanar, ak.a. Birman22 by LP Moderator, Oman Aguilos.

LP: Please give us a brief background information about yourself.

My day job is in a company engaged in hi-volume sales in the IT Industry and I manage a division which handles the repair and maintenance of POS Terminals in VIS-MIN. I am a Cebuano, married, and I have 2 lovely daughters.

LP: Is photography a full-time job or is it a hobby? How long have you been in photography?
Photography is not only a hobby - it is a passion for me. I've been at it for 24 years now.

LP: What inspired you to capture this winning photo?

This "winning" photo was captured during a birding trip I took to a place in Loon, Bohol, where I had a chance to shoot that "Little Heron" all by itself in a marshy pond. There it was, bathed in golden light at just the right angle, with an almost perfect reflection! I shot off some frames, re-composed - and off it flew! My heart fell, thinking I may not have captured the moment well enough! But luck was on my side and I did nail it.
LP: Did you have any professional training in photography?

I had some training under pros, but mostly learned thru practice and more practice. One thing I learned early on is this: Just because others are better doesn't mean that you're not good! So practice, practice, practice.
LP: How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date?

I keep myself updated through magazines and the net. Equipment reviews and peer advice helps a lot in being "in" on the latest trends. I shun formal training or "workshops" because I want to develop my own style of photography.

LP: What is the most memorable experience you have in photography?

My main interest is in Wild Bird Photography - and there are so few of us in this category right now, but as far as "memorable experiences" are concerned, that one would be the winning photo and possibly Grandpa and Child, and Mongolian Gull.

The Cebu Daily News ran a story about this rare capture - and I kept the check they paid for the photo in my wallet till now :-)

LP: What is your thought on post processing photos?

I have nothing against post processing - that is one of the advantages of digital photography. If it helps one to realize the vision he saw in his mind when he took the picture, why not? The important thing is that you should take a good shot in the first place. The only time I am against PP is when it is "creatively" used to alter somebody's work and claim it as your own.

LP: What will be the best advice you would give to a beginner / amateurs photographers?

Don't quit your day job! Honestly, all I can say is that Photography is a way to capture images that you want to keep or show to others. In other words, through Photography, one can share his experiences, visions and perspective with those around him, and it can be the most rewarding experience for us and for them. Be Passionate about it, and always make it your best shot!

The Pick

Hersley-Ven Casero has a way of playing with light and shadows, which make his photographs a good study in the field of photography. He magically transforms the mundane into an extraordinary and captivating image. He has that knack in drawing out human emotions like an expert shrink that makes a viewer feel what his subjects do.

He is one of the photographers whom I noticed when I started with Flickr in 2007. When he won the Larawang Pinoy Challenge dubbed as Sinag, and revisiting his Flickr stream, it was only then did I realize he was the one I admired a year ago (and my apologies for not revisiting his stream). Why did he struck a chord? Maybe we have something in common—that is Dumaguete. From 1999-2005, I have been in and out of Dumaguete City doing some work for the Salesian Brothers, and captivated by its gentle people—that is why it is called The City of Gentle People.

Dumaguete City, especially Foundation University should be very proud to have a homegrown talent like Hersley who has never got tired or giving back to his hometown and alma mater, through his art.

It may be ironic that a marketing major like him would end up in creative visual arts like photography. However, art is not new to him. Before he even graduated from a marketing course, he was already into the arts. In college, he already did murals, which he still enjoys doing up to this time. In his words, “I know it is kind of funny finishing a course not related to my present profession but art is my passion and I am happy that I am in this job.”

He has five years to his credentials, and it was only in the past two years that he did it professionally. In the first three years, he dared to sail—to explore, to discover and learn. Indeed, he not only learned, but also got what he dreamt for—a job that he loves doing. He is now connected with Foundation University Creative Department, which caters creative works and services for the entire university, like video production and graphic designs. When it comes to photography and painting, Hersley is the man.

Like any other job, he also had his shares of high and low moments, like being away from his loved ones to get things done and capturing precious moments. However, he becomes oblivious of these little sacrifices when his work is rewarded when he receives positive feedback from their clients, when he is appreciated by the photography masters, which he treasures most, and of course, winning a contest.

Winning in Larawang Pinoy Challenge may not be a very significant feat in his career. He has had his share of glorious triumph when he won the provincial photography contest during the Buglasan Festival, which is held every October. Buglasan Festival in Negros Oriental, is a province-wide celebration featuring street dancing, trade fairs and exhibits, concerts, contest in singing, dancing, sports, and photography. He recalls, “I was very surprised because it was the first time I joined a contest and won the grand prize and the first consolation prize in the same contest. I won two prizes in the top five out of the many who participated.”

For him every beautiful scene or a significant moment is enough to inspire him to take out his camera and click that button. In his words, “It is not joining any contest that I am thinking every time I do it. It's my passion to freeze the things that for me will not happen again.”

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See more of Herley's Online Gallery at DeviantArt.com

LP in "Rate my Philippines"

I stumbled upon Rate My Philippines in Pinoy BlogoSphere (PBS) which is also a home to Larawang Pinoy. According to the site description, their goal is to make a comiplation of

"useful, relevant and quality websites we all can be proud of as Filipinos and we are looking for sites that actually promote the Philippines and the Filipinos in a dignified and professional manner."

So I thought of enlisting my personal blog and Larawang Pinoy. First, because I needed to spring back into blogging, and regain the popularity of my personal blog since I hibernated for some months. Second, I also wanted to put Larawang Pinoy into the wonderful world of blogging.

I was not disappointed. I guess, they noticed first LP first! I guess, it fits in to their criteria on Pinoy websites that promote the country positively. We cannot brag about it, but the review says it all:

Larawang Pinoy, the blog is a realization to that. Putting their photography in blogsphere mainstream is the perfect path to go. Surely it will add to a much deserved exposure and attention!

The photos are simply breathtaking and stirring. It inspires the photographer in all of us to grab the camera and start shooting. Perhaps when that happens, when a certain idea motivates enough people to follow through, you know you have been successful in your endeavor.

Be lifted. Be uplifted. “Showcasing Filipino artistry through digital photography,” Larawang Pinoy Blog has truly arrived.

Again, many thanks to the Admins of Rate My Philippines! May your tribe increase!

Close up smile

Photographer: Jon Carlos
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 7 : Bata-batuta

Viewing Jon Carlos' photo stream in Flickr is like having an online tutorial--his wide range of subjects and diverse techniques give you that instant lesson about photography. Without knowing him further, one can assume he is already a pro. However, he honestly confesses that he is still a newbie, having started in photography late last year with his wife, Kris.

Although he formally only last year, photography is not new to him. As early as a sophomore in Workman High School in the US, he has learned about film photography, used pinholes, and developed his own photos. This is not to mention that photography runs in the family. His Aunt used to own a photography studio when she was still based in the Philippines. His step father is into photography.

Of course we should not forget to include Kris, his loving wife, who is likewise a photography buff. His relationship with his wife has never been the same as they both get the chance to live their passions and enjoy each other's company. In Jon's words,

"I'm very, very, very proud of my wife. She has the eye for photography. Sharing the same passion brought our relationship more exciting."

Portraying emotions and sharing stories behind make an interesting subject for Jon, that is why he is more at ease with street photography and portraiture. While he considers photography as a hobby for now, he and his wife is considering to make our photography their full time job--shooting weddings, events, or even venture in advertising. At the young age of 34 and backed up by his training on Basic and Advance photography workshops at FPPF and Wedding photography at PCCI, and most especially with a loving wife who understands his passion and shares his vision, Jon has more than enough time time to fulfill their dreams.

.....

Based on the interview by: Oman of Larawang Pinoy

Dance your heart out

Photographer: Victor Bautista
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 6 : Fiesta Filipinas



It was his first time to attend Sinulog Festival of Cebu in 2007, and he was just awed by the colorful, festivities and from his own words, an "endless flow of contagious energy," which was exactly captured in this winning photo.

Also, very aptly, his name, VICTOR, tells a lot about himself and this photo. Indeed, he ends up victorious by winning the hearts of Larawang Pinoy members during this 6th weekly challenge on Philippine Fiestas.

Victor is currently based in Hong Kong handling a day job in managing a design department in a packaging company. He mentioned that photography is more of a hobby, although he does moonlighting jobs on photography, and that he learned photography in college, and constantly updates his craft by reading magazines and browsing the net.

Although a man of few words, it is not necessary to dig deeper into his persona. His Flickr stream speaks more about his talent as a photographer and his vision as an artist. Browsing on photos about him makes me more convinced that he is, indeed, a person worthy of immeasurable admiration!

Victor is currently involved in two exhibits this month and one of which is the 3rd Philippine Arts Festival in Hong Kong, dubbed as Tricolor: A cultural Celebration, which is opening on June 8.

If I may quote one of his testimonials in his Flickr profile by the photography master himself, Ossie Hermosisima:

Vic is the guy to watch. He's constantly expanding his craft. I can't wait for his next uploads.

Even not reading this testimonial just to complete this simple article about him and his winning photo, I was hooked to his photos. I am a fan!

So guys, if you or your families and friends are in Hong Kong, please support our Kababayan, Victor and the other artists and photographers!

Featured Photographer: Von Punzalan

Von Punzalan, a.k.a. kermitman, a.k.a. Vonrhyan B. Punzalan, was already featured in this blog for one of his winning photos in the Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest.

Again, we are featuring him for winning in the recently concluded Aliwan 2008 Photo Contest. Von, is now richer by P25,000 for bagging the second place in the Aliwan Fiesta 2008 Photo contest. (We regret, however, that we cannot post his winning photo here in this blog because of possible copyright infringements. What we are showing is one of his lucky 7 entries, which is equally stunning!).

According to Aliwan Fiesta website, "Over 1490 entries were submitted, with 160 passing the preliminary screening by MBC’s Ad-Prom team. The final round was then judged by illustrative photographer Mandy Navasero, One Workshop’s Ross Capili (in his capacity as member of the Executive Council of the NCCA’s Committee on Visual Arts), and renowned commercial photographer Eddie Boy Escudero."

Here are some of his thoughts on bagging the 2nd best spot:

"Actually I was thinking of submitting only 2 entries. When I saw some of the photographers comparing their entries outside the MBC theater, and they have like 20 entries each, I honestly thought I didn't stand a chance and especially for a first timer. One member even submitted 60 photos. But a friend urge me to submit it anyway, I ended up submitting seven (7), which includes The Queen , Me.. Me.. pick Me , which were my first two choices, and Positiveness , Tied Together with a Smile, which I submitted just for the heck of it. The winning photo, which is entitled "ONE" was not even my first choice. So when I heard that I have just won, I felt like like a young kid opening my first Christmas present. For a first timer, I guess, it feels so damn good!"

Who are his influences in his photography?
About style, Lee Aguinaldo for his abstact artworks and of course, Ansel Adams.


What type of photography or photographic subject interests you now? Which area in photography would you like to learn more?
Landscape HDR shots in low light. Here are my Faves and I learned a lot by just merely looking at these images. I hope you guys do too. Would like to know more about everything, especially about lighting.


Where do you see yourself, photography-wise, five years from now?
The New Ansel Adams (lols!) or in a studio taking pictures (and getting paid for it)

His additional advice to would-be and beginner photographers?
Be prepared to spend money!


...
Again from the Larawang Pinoy family, CONGRATULATIONS!

When the sun shines on the crying boy...

Photographer: Barry Lu
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 5 : Young Worker



Photo details:
Camera: Sony DSC-H5
Exposure: 0.013 sec (1/80)
Aperture: f/4.5
ISO Speed: 100
Focal Length: 30.3 mm
Exposure Bias: 0/10 EV


BARRY LU who was the first Natatanging Larawang Pinoy winner nailed it again this time. As mentioned in an earlier blog entry about him, he mentioned street photography as one of his passions. In his words, "I love to see people's life and emotions. I study and learn from different person who I have meet."

This photo was taken on the MRT overpass bridge in Pasay City. It was around 5 o'clock in the afternoon which gave a smooth and warm light to everyone walking on the street. As he passed by, he noticed this crying kids who was holding a plastic cup and begging for some loose change. he stood there for 30 minutes and observed. Even people game him coins, his crying did not stop. Later on, he realized that the boy does not only needs money, but rather, needs more LOVE and CARE.

He has entered this photo in various groups' challenges and won. However, winning again for photo is not his real intention. He wants to know people to be aware that there are many kids like him in Metro Manila alone who need care and attention.

Barry, although not naturally born Filipino, is indeed Filipino by heart!

....
SEE MORE of Barry Lu's photos at: Flickr.

Based on the Interview of Ron Miguel of Larawang Pinoy Group Flickr Site

Farmers in Action

Photographer: Kenly Monteagudo
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 4 : Farmers in Action



Please give us a brief background information about yourself.

*Kenly Monteagudo
*TV Cameraman / Saudi Aramco

Is photography a full-time job or is it a hobby? Hobby

What got you interested in photography? - I enjoy taking photographs, in the same way that I am enjoying taking videos.

Did you enroll in photography course? - Just workshops.

How do you keep your photographic skills/knowledge up-to-date? - Always in-touch with my fellow photographers for a photo-Ops,workshops.

Tell us about your most important/unforgettable experience in learning photography. - Every click in my camera is my important and unforgettable experience.

Tell us about your equipment and preferred photo software. What made you choose these above the others?
Curently using Nikon D100 and i am planning to upgrade soon. I am using a photoshop and Adobe lightroom for my post-processing.

8. What is your thought on post processing photos? - I'ts cool..amazing!

9. What style or area of photography do you prefer and why? - I like street, nature and travel photography

10. What is the story behind your winning photo? What made you choose that particular photo from your photo set to be your contest entry? - I like that photo because you can see how the farmers works hard.

11. What advice would you give to would-be and beginner photographers? - I always consider myself a beginner, so that i will not stop learning. I think its better to be that way to keep you humble and thirsty for new Ideas.

12. Complete this sentence, and feel free to add a few sentences more: I love photography because…

* I love photography as i love my work as a TV Cameraman.
For me Videography and Photography shares in one goal..to Capture the Moment

.......
Based on an interview of Shutterblogger at Larawang Pinoy

Kenly Monteagudo's Flickr site is no longer active. We regret that we cannot link you to his site.

Zamae

Photographer: Ding Fuellos
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 3 : Monocrhomatic Solo Portrait


Photo details:
Camera: Olympus E-510
Exposure: 0.005 sec (1/200)
Aperture: f/4
Focal Length: 78 mm
Exposure Bias: 0/10 EV


Aside from a full-time work managing a Fellowship Program at in the House of Representatives, and doing some freelance consulting work on development management he takes photography as one of his passions.

For him, photography for me is a form of a therapy, "It releases the tensions and stress that come everyday. It is a catharsis for my pent-up emotions that depict some of my angst, anger, joy and happiness, hopes and dreams. And most importantly, it gives me that freedom to capture the beauty of God’s creation—the people, places, objects, and events."

He has no formal training photography but plans to have one, although he plans to enroll in one soon! He admits that he has to go through a structured learning process under the tutelage of the experts. He said, "I am a sucker of knowledge and ideas and I always believe that life is a learning process—so does is photography." He hopes that, someday, he would also get paid for his photos.

With the absence of formal training, he keeps himslef technically abreast by reading books, browsing from the internet, and learning from the photos in Flickr. He has beginners’ books on Digital Photography by Tom Ang, and New Book of Photography by John Hedgecoe and a very old book on photo-journalism (ca. 80s) which he has yet to read. Since books are expensive, he sees to it that he drops by a bookstore to scan on some photography books.

As can be gleaned from this winning photo of his niece, Zamae, he is more at ease with photographing people in their most candid dispositions and situation because, for him, "it can give you the most genuine emotion. I like photographing nature in their natural state because it brings real life." Aside from photographing people and nature, he is also drawn to abstract photography and photojournalism. One of the projects he intends to do a photo essay.

His parting shot: I love photography because it gives me that freedom to express and re-create something that is beautiful.


SEE MORE OF Ding Fuellos' Photo at Flickr

The Image of Peace

Photographer: Von Punzalan
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 3 : Monochromatic Solo Portrait



Photo details:
Camera: Canon EOS 400D Digital
Exposure: 0.003 sec (1/320)
Aperture: f/2.8
Focal Length: 200 mm
Exposure Bias: 0/3 EV

Von Punzalan likes spontaneity, which is reflected in this photo. He had nothing to do that day when his friends invited him to go with them in their airsoft gun game to take pictures. Since it was risky [for his camera] to get action shots of the game, he waited until the players went back tired, angry [at a game lost], bruised, in pain...and all kinds of emotion. But he did not mind all these negative emotions. Rather he looked for the opposite, which would portray an image of peace, and he was not disappointed.

Von is a freelance real estate broker from Parañaque who takes photography as a hobby seriously. His consolation is the fact that he gives people some sort of entertainment with his photos.

He took formal classes in basic, advanced and interior photography at the Philippine Center for Creative Imaging (PCCI). Although armed with academic credentials on photography, he still considers himself an amateur, who likes to be constantly searching for additional knowledge and skills. As an adjunct to his training at PCCI, he reads books, and visits other peoples' images and try to analyze how they portrayed the subject, and how lighting was done. In his words, "basically training my eye everyday." Thus, he recommends deviantART where you can "train your eye."

For him, photography is something that is personal. For him, there are two reasons why he loves photography: That part where i meet other people with the the same passion for photography, and that part where i get to capture that "Magic moment" that i can share with other people.

His advice would for would-be and beginner photographers?
- Train your Eye
- To improve your technical skills first
- Thinking well about the kind of photography you are interested in.
- Make mistakes(take notes of them) and do not be worried about critics. Listen to them.


SEE MORE OF Von Punzalan's Photos at Flickr

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Based on an interview of Shutterblogger at Larawang Pinoy

Licuala palm

Photographer: Elmer Borlongan
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 2: The Many Patterns of Mother Nature




Only an artist who has an eye for art can decipher that a simple and backlit licuala palm can be a great subject of photography. And that is no other than Elmer Borlongan.

Larawang Pinoy is honored to have Elmer Borlongan, as one of its members. Emong, as he is fondly called by his friends, is a full-time painter who has done exhibits in galleries in Metro Manila. He grew up in Mandaluyong but moved to San Antonio, Zambales to concentrate in his art-making.

Aside from learning painting, he I enrolled in the Mowelfund Film Institute photography workshop under Bahaghari and Rey Castaneda, which offered darkroom printing where he also fulfiled a a dream to develop and print black and white photos. As such, he had been into photography even digital cameras became a fad.

He had a Nikon FE2 film camera in college, which he used to document his paintings and take snapshots for the family album. Since film photography was expensive, he had to set it aside. However, the coming of digital photography rekindled his passion for fine art photography, and he has not stopped since then, and perhaps, follow the footsteps of his favorite photographers like Henri Cartier-Bresson, David Alan Harvey, Raghubir Singh, Romy Gacad and Sonny Yabao.

Over the years, he considers his photography quite eclectic simply because he wants to discover the many possibilities of this medium. He prefers spontaneity--which could be in the street, in the garden or inside his house. He prefers to shoot in available light like how he did it for this photo.

He was in a garden store in Castillejos when he saw this palm. The beauty of the morning light falling on its transparent leaf inspired him to capture the beautiful repetitive lines. He only made some adjustment on the contrast to get a lighter green.

Having been schooled in fine arts and an accomplished painter, Emong still continues to learn photography. This he does by browsing photos in Flickr and reading books he acquired like that of "The Photo Book" by Phaidon, "National Geographic:The Photographs" and a coffeetable book on Magnum photographers. He also goeas around galleries and exhibits like the BlackSoup Project in Cubao Expo and One Workshop Gallery in Makati for his exposure. He is also subscribing to Digital Photographer Philippines and i-mag Photography.

His gears?
His digital cameras include: Canon Powershot A80, Rolleiflex MiniDigi and a Canon EOS 20D with 18-55mm kit lens. For film, which he admits he rarely use are the Nikon F601M, Lomo Frogeye and a Lomo fisheye.

His opinion on digital post-processing?
"The evolution of modern technology has developed quite significantly over a quarter of a century. It has, as a consequence, nurtured an "instant gratification" mentality that humankind quickly adapted to. Digital cameras and computers gave us instant gratification to just point and shoot. Software allowed us to achieve the desired effect in photographs, without the long laboring hours in the darkroom that required the use, exposure and expertise in handling toxic chemicals. Embracing new technology is a good thing because it's available in the modern age. It has, however, given us the license to be careless. Despite these options to manipulate the photo, the eye must be well trained and know the controls of our camera to get the right exposure without compromising form and composition."

A word of advise to newbies:
"They can start using cameraphones to learn the basics of light, color and composition. And then move on to a camera depending on one's budget. It's best to study the functions of your equipment and just shoot regularly until you get the results you want."

What challenges him in photography?
"The excitement of capturing the moment and translating what you see in photographs is amazing. It serves as a memory and historical record of how you perceive the world."


SEE MORE OF Emong's Photos at Flickr

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Based on the Interview of purplbutrfly of Larawang Pinoy Group Flickr Site

The vagrant - Happy mother and child

Photographer: Barry Lu
Winner: Natatanging Larawang Pinoy Contest - Week 1: Mother and Child



Photo details:
Camera: Sony DSC-H5
Exposure: 0.004 sec (1/250)
Aperture: f/4
Focal Length: 26.7 mm
Exposure Bias: 0/10 EV



BARRY LU, is a Taiwanese living in the Philippines for the last 15 years that he feels more like a Pinoy than a Taiwanese. I

During a friend's brother’s wedding, he went out of the church after taking some wedding shots. While standing at the gate. Some kids went near him asking for alms. Then this young, shy and friendly lady caught his attention. With a photographer's instinct, he aimed his camera waited for the right time to press the button. He wanted to portray a happy disposition despite the difficulty that these vagrant people are suffering from. For him, "A difficult life will not beat the happiness in enjoying the life that God has given."

Barry had his first camera, a NIKON FM2, and studied photography in high school. He started with photography for documenting paintings and sculptures when he was still a fine arts student. From 1986 to 1992, he did some documentation work for some people in Taipei, Taiwan. He started with black and white photography, and developed films and printed photos in the traditional dark room techniques. He learned his dark room techniques under the tutelage of Juan I-Jong: Juan's Darkroom Workshop in 1987 (www.jdwvision.com/). I like Ansel Adams, Henri Cartier-Bresson, W. Eugene Smith… etc.

Later on he discovered that taking photos is more than recording images for academic purposes. He learned that photographs can express and convey a message--like his ideas and feeling. This convinced him to venture into photography as another venue for his creativity. However, he stopped his work in photography in 1993 when he came to work in the Philippines. Then two years ago, he bought his first digital camera, and photography has become a hobby.

To keep him abreast with photography, he reads any kind of material on fine art, design and photography--in books and magazines or surf the internet. He also spends time visit art museums and galleries. Now he focuses on fine art, surreal images, people, and street photography.

Aside from photograhy, Barry has found his niche in product design. He worked for a home goods export company as a designer team leader for 12 years. In 2007, he started doing freelance design work like “Town and Country” (Oct 2007) and “Lifestyle Asia” (March 2008).


His advice on photography newbies?
"I think people who are just starting to take photos, spend too much time on cameras and lenses or technique. But for me, my motive for taking photos is not just to get a good shot; it's about the circumstances related to the shot, to learn some things from people and nature. That's the most important part for me."


SEE MORE of Barry Lu's photos at: Flickr.

Based on the Interview of purplbutrfly of Larawang Pinoy Group Flickr Site