Paul Llanos and his Portrait of Literature

   Among many photographers that have existed today, only few show remarkable ability that makes them standout in their field. One of them is Paul Fernandez Llanos, a photographer who displays not only his incredible eyes in taking photos but also his sincere love for photography. 

   Paul was graduated in Notre Dame of Dadiangas College (now Notre Dame of Dadiangas University) with the degree of Bachelor of Science major in Computer Science. His interest in photography took shape after he graduated in college. It started as a hobby that eventually turned into love affair. He joined his friends in taking wedding photography shoot to experience the fun of it. As they say, the rest is history. 

   “At first, I am not aware that I have a talent in photography. I just join my friends, take photos and enjoy it,” Paul says. 

   When he uploaded these photos in his Multiply account, someone noticed it and contacted Paul. “When I posted it in my Multiply page, I did not expect that someone would appreciate my photos. I didn’t intend to brag it or to persuade someone. I just wanted to share it. Then an OFW contacted me and wanted me to be her photographer in their wedding,” Paul says. “She was my first client and I am glad that she appreciated my output.” 

   Paul is a self-taught guy. He learns photography thru scouting and reading photography lessons in the internet. He also learns from his good friends as well as attending some photography workshops. 

   As a wedding and portrait photographer, he is not fond of looking of other photographer’s work because it may hamper his creativity. But he also admits that he has idols in this field. “I try not to look at other photographer’s photos. Sometimes I cannot conceptualize because I’m spending too much time looking at it,” Paul says. “But I stick to two photographers that I look up to. They are Oly Ruiz of Metrophoto and Lito Sy,” he adds. The said photographers are his inspiration to take great photos and share it with passion. 

   Paul has his own concept. He creates a unique composition and tone that set him apart among his contemporaries. This style makes him the source of imitation to other neophyte photographers. “It’s ok with me that they imitate my style. It’s ok if they consider me as their inspiration. Sooner or later they will have their own style.” 

   Paul does not abhor the idea of using photo editing software like Photoshop in photography. “Using this tool, it can enhance the image,” he says. “It will add beauty and value to it. Depending on its usage, this tool can make or break the career of a photographer.” Paul also emphasizes that every photographers has its own style; whether they use Photoshop or not, it still depend on their eyes as photographer. 

   In terms of style, his body of works presents clean shots with vibrant colors that have its unique tone that blends in the concept he desired. 

   Social Media helps market his works to the broad audience. For example, he uses Facebook to market his photos in a subtle way that is not annoying to the viewers. “I just post it in my Facebook Profile. I let my potential client scans the photos and let her/him decide if he/she loves it.” 

   What’s good about Paul is that he is not motivated by money. Unlike some photographers who are conscious about having a client, Paul is not forcing his potential clients to book him for their event. “I let them browse my work in Facebook. If they like it, it’s good. If they don’t, it’s fine with me. I am not forcing them to like it. They have the freedom to choose where to spend their penny,” says Paul. “Most of my clients love my work not because of its price but for my output.” 

   That why Paul is not accepting many clients because it can risk his output. “I only receive at least 4 clients a month depending on the situation. If I don’t limit it, it can cause problem in terms of post processing the photos and the delivery of it.” 

   Paul is aware that too much commercialization in photography can endanger the art behind it. “If your photos are too much commercialize it can devalue your output. Just like in food, if you lessen the ingredients of your viand, it can taste bad,” he adds. 

   One of the good traits of Paul Llanos as a photographer is that he shows genuine passion in his craft. This passion is not merely passion per se but passion that is grounded in reality. 

   Aside from photography, he also likes scuba diving, bike, and air soft. He is also a literary guy who likes to incorporate his poetic side in photography. For example, his tagline – “Where portraits become literature” – portrays different stories using the medium of photography. In an excerpt of his short essay, he says: 

   “I see beauty in the midst of chaos. Art in the most unexpected places. Angles in unsuspecting finds. Color euphoria in classic lights. Different patterns, various hues, it all results to one exceptional work of ingenuity.” 

   Paul wants to explore more in photography. Though he is almost 10 years in this field, he wants to stay relevant and updated for a fresh perspective. “I want to shoot in a new location or in a foreign land. For me photography is love. My love for this craft resonates in my photos. It keeps me inspired.” 

   “Keep shooting, keep practicing,” as he advice. “Don’t let your passion overrun by the idea of money when you go into this field.” 

This article is originally posted in Yadu Karu's Blog 

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Caera and the story behind her photography

   Caera Grace Lastimosa Agduma or simply Caera is a survivor in her own right. In her 24 years of existence she managed to overcome her dark past and became a messenger of the words of God. She is one of the rising photographers in SOCCSKSARGEN. She is improving and evolving as a photographer and nothing can stop her in expressing her ideas in a positive way. 

   Caera recounts the days when she lost herself. As I describe her, she is a good girl gone badly because of what she experienced in her family. “I rebelled to my parents before,” Caera said. “I neglected my studies, I smoked marijuana, I partied a lot and did many other things that a rebel youngster would do.”

   When I heard all of these, I was a bit surprised because I can’t imagine how she was able to overcome all of it. “That time, Harry Potter and witchcraft were my form of escapism,” as she remembered. “Before, I cannot face the reality so I secluded myself and went into my world.” 

   It’s a spiral of negativity that’s hard to untangle. But thru God’s help, she excluded them out. “All of the said negativities in my life were all gone when I reconnected with God,” she pointed out. "It was a life changing opportunity when I joined the Youth with a Mission (YWAM) last year in Antipolo City."

   “YWAM is a miraculous experience. I thought I could not make it because I did not have money for my (daily) expenses. God helped me through channeling it to my friends and acquaintances.” 

   One of the things that she cannot forget in her YWAM experience was the Mangyan child named Alvin. Alvin inspired her in so many ways. “His innocence really amazed me. When we were in their community, he asked so many questions, he was curious of so many things and he’s fun to be with. His innocence made me realized so many things not just for myself but also for other people.” Through that experience she learned how to face the reality and her creativity started to evolve which eventually lead her to photography. 

   She started in photography using only her camera phone. She fondly took photos and posted it online. Luckily, it gained popularity and became an inspiration. Until one day, her mom got a Canon 600D camera because of work related tasks. She took the opportunity to use it and learn the art of photography. Her first mentor was her boyfriend, Edward James Sinforoso who taught her the basics of photography and the rest were history. 

   What’s remarkable about Caera as photographer is that she is more into actual practice than theory. She knows the basic in photography but she’s not really dwelling into its theory. “It hinder creativity,” as she said. Kitty Gallannaugh, Fade Longboy, Edward (her bf) and his father are her inspirations. 

   Caera’s photography is more into Bohemian/Gypsy style with a touch of vintage and a little twist of eccentricity. “I see things in a different way. In little things I can create a story.”

   She only started photography last February but continuously gaining a lot of followers. Her Facebook page now has thousands of likes (and still counting). Caera was also the brainchild of the first “shoot out” in Koronadal City which gathered many participants. Because of its popularity, some photographers replicated this idea. 

   At first, Caera only borrowed camera from her friends until she was able to buy her own. It was when she saw a post (online) by one of her friends who sells his camera (Nikon D700). Out of frustration, she made a shout out (on Facebook) pertaining to it which was noticed by one of her clients who helped her acquire the camera. “God is really great,” she said. “I prayed to Him and asked for it, and He gave it.”

   Her works is based on creations of God. She uses photography to share the words of God. “I live by faith and I express it through photography”. Furthermore, most of her works have the touch of nature with lovely colors.

   “Photography is part of my life. If you’re observant, it reflects my life, my mood and my state of mind.”

   There was a time Caera experienced being bullied because of her photography, but she made that experiences as her motivation to improve her works. Instead of dwelling into it she focused on its positive side. “Through this experience, I discovered who really my friends are. I also learned to forgive,”she said.

   “I really admire individuals who only competes with himself/herself and not with others,” she said. Caera admires those who only do their best and not joining the rat race. 

   “Don’t mind the camera,” as she said.“Try to find your (inner) creativity. Your eyes serves as your lens to the beauty of the world. Share your vision and be an inspiration.”

originally posted in southcotabatonews.com 

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If I have him

   He is rare. He is one of a kind. He is one in a million. It seems that his kind is becoming extinct. His philosophy is worth practicing. His eyes have a similar vision of the Creator. His photos are timeless. He is George Tapan.

   I did not hesitate to attend his mini seminar last September 11, 2014 at Sydney Hotel, GenSan. I want to hear his thoughts about photography and the art behind it. Although I did not attend his three day photography workshop (organized by Louie Pacardo), I am still thankful to attend his first activity. 

   In his seminar, he talked about the brief history of photography. How camera invented and how photographs changed the history of humanity. He shared about his winning photograph in the National Geographic photo contest. He also discussed the elements of a good photograph. The (mini) seminar also has an open forum where the participants asked freely their questions regarding photography.

One of his travel photography books

   “Let’s capture the Philippines in a beautiful way, “as he said, pointing out the importance of photography in capturing the beauty of the Philippines. And because he is a travel photographer, he believes in the power of photography in promoting the Philippines as a paradise to the foreign and local tourists. His collaboration with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Philippine Airlines and his five travel photography books prove his dedication in helping the Philippines to be the top tourist destination in the world. 

   “A great photographer has a passion, dedication as well as patience in capturing a moment,” he said. “It is not like a fast food (restaurant) where you can order your food in a minute. Photography is patience. Wait for the right moment to capture a great photo. Don’t stop if you don’t get the right angle.”

Mr. Tapan's first camera

   His father is also a photographer. He got his first camera in 1965 while he took his first photo in 1969. He is self-taught photographer. He learned photography from reading/scanning his collection of National Geographic Magazines. He also learned thru research, travel and experimentation. “You have to research if you want a great photo,” as he explained. “You have to travel to have an inspiration. Learn the culture of the place you visited. Plan your shots and be creative”. 

Mr. Tapan's first photograph 

   I really admire his photographs. If you look at it, it seems so alive. It’s like I’m in the photo with him when he took it. His photos stimulate your mind. It’s magic. “All photos must have soul. Try to capture the soul of the picture. Photography has a purpose, it should be shared.”

   This man is not a brand conscious. If he likes to use a Nikon or any camera just to have his desired photo, he will use it. “Try to experiment with your equipment,” as he suggested. “Thru experimentation you will learn a lot from it.” 

Mr. Tapan discussed about different camera lenses.

   He is not fond of using flash and (adobe) photoshop. He is more into natural looking photographs. If it is dark, he uses flash light instead of camera flash. Moreover, he thinks and analyzes his subject before he photographed it. “You should consider whether your subject is appropriate in a situation or moment you want to shoot,” he said. “For example, if you want to capture a woman who wears a bikini in the beautiful waterfalls, you should think whether the woman in bikini could be a distraction to the beautiful waterfalls. In short, think the right concept for your photo.” 

   “Dream big,” as he advised. “Your photographs are not intended for Facebook only.” Mr. Tapan pointed out that photographers should not depend on uploading their works on Facebook. “Photography is not all about yes and likes on Facebook. If you dream that your works will be published on the National Geographic magazine or in the Mabuhay Miles magazine, then you should work on it. Dream big.” He also said that mistake is normal for a photographer. “By taking photos, you will learn from it. You will learn from your mistakes.”

   Mr. Tapan also emphasized the importance of etiquette in taking photos. A photographer should ask permission and research about the place he/she visited. A photographer should be respectful and culture-sensitive. A photographer must conceptualize before he/she take photos. 

   When one of the participants asked Mr. Tapan on what’s his secret to have great eyes in taking photos, he said, “I always pray to God to have good eyes in taking photos. I also pray for a good weather.” 

   His body of works speaks a lot about him as an artist. Despite his success and recognition, he remains humble and open for learning. It is sad to observe that most of the photographers today have this “huge ego”. It keeps them blinded on the reality of life. It weakens their artistic expression and creative mind. They are more into flaunting their gadgets and equipment not to capture the beauty of life but to intimidate others. They are busy profiting their so called “masterpiece” that they tend to forget their responsibilities as photographers. 

   How I wish I have George Tapan-type of Cinematographer in my film production team. I don’t mean to be a delusional dork here but his eyes as a photographer are truly amazing. Well, I look forward to meet that kind of teammate in the near future. As of this writing, I am still intoxicated with his works. I’m on this wishful thinking-mindset that if I have him on my team, our art work would be as great as other great art works in the world……if I have him.

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Per & Daisy Prenup AVP

Photo by Van Almeria (The Walking Eyes)

Project Title: Per & Daisy Prenup AVP

Created by: G.V. Alfasain 

Production House: The Walking Eyes & Love Metaphor

Engagement Styling: Vina Routel 

Photography: Van Almeria 

Music by: Erh (freesound.org) 

Location: Sarangani Highlands

Couple: Daisy Soler & Per Solhaug 

Date of shoot: September 2, 2014

An experimental video made for the couple.

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An Interview with Batang Polomolok

   It’s a rare moment to meet a man like Steven Rae H. Bañares or popularly known as Batang Polomolok (BP). His works shows uniqueness and creativity that benefited much of the people in the Municipality of Polomolok. His love for his hometown speaks a lot about him. 

   I first heard BP through Rommel Tesoro when we were working in a magazine last year. When he uttered that name, I got curious and excited to meet the guy that he always talks about. Until recently, I got the chance to meet him through Nanardxz. I did not regret it because I have enjoyed hanging out with him. 

   Steven graduated at the University of the East-Manila, with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. Before he became Public Servant and Photographer, he was an OFW working as an Accountant in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. For four years of working aboard, he went back to the Philippines and work for another three years as Senior Accountant in a company based in Makati City.

   Traveling helps him realize that he has a passion for photography. His experience as an OFW led him to the idea of Batang Polomolok. So he went back to his hometown to pursue his passion. 

   When he was in Polomolok, he took photos of people, events and landmarks to promote the municipality and at the same time give updates to the OFWs whose hometown is Polomolok. 

   “If taga Polomolok jud ka, taga Polomolok jud ka”, as he said (If you’re from Polomolok, you’re really from Polomolok.). 

   He understands that if you’re an OFW, you will miss your country especially you’re hometown. Through his photography, he helps ease the loneliness of Filipinos working abroad. 

   On July 30, 2012, he created Batang Polomolok Facebook Page. Through that Facebook page, BP became a brand that still recognizable not only to the OFWs but also to the people of SOCCSKSARGEN. 

   “I got the inspiration of the title Batang Polomolok from popular liquor (TV) commercial”, he said. “Rommel helped me design the logo, and then launched it online. I made a gimmick to gain more likes. At first, there were only 100 likes and eventually it reached thousands,” he added. 

   Because of the popularity of BP he became a “public figure”. “Before it is difficult to take photos from people because I am not known and they do not like the idea of it. Now that efforts of Batang Polomolok have been recognize, they are now willing to be photographed and be featured in the BP Facebook page,” he said. His popularity leads him to become endorser of local products and business establishments in Polomolok. 

   Steven is not merely a photographer. He is a photographer for a cause. He uses his photography to influence people to see things in a different perspective. For example, when he was invited in a Bikini Open, he took a photo of child watching the said event. This photo sparked controversy because of the child involved in the photo. It caught the attention of the Municipal Social Welfare and Development (MSWD) Office of Polomolok. “The photo is not intended to condemn the event”, he said. “It was just that the event is not appropriate to conduct in a highway. From the name itself, it is supposed to be conducted in an exclusive area like in a resort or beach. They should consider whether there is a minor watching. Moreover, the personnel who are responsible of releasing permits in this kind of show should consider this matter,” he added.

   Aside from his advocacy photography, he is also into wedding photography. His dream is to do a wedding project in the Bahamas. When I asked him if his Professional fee is higher, he only laughs and recounts the days when he was starting. “When I was starting as a photographer, I volunteer (and continuously doing) to document events and landmarks to help promote Polomolok. I did not mind any compensation because I am happy and willing to help the municipality,” he pointed out. Noel Nacion, Jommel Gregorio and Park Cruz are his influences and at the same time his inspiration to do his craft effectively and passionately. 

   Currently, Steven works in the Local Government Unit of Polomolok. Because of his versatility, he is not only working in the Mayor’s office (under Hon. Honey Lumayag-Matti), but also in Public Information Office (PIO) and in Tourism Department. His love for Polomolok fuels his ideas to conceptualize more of tourism activities and other promotional initiatives. 

   Despite his success and recognition he remains humble. With this status that he now reaches, it is expected that bashers and haters are ready to devour him. “You cannot please everyone. Some people are not fond of my photos. They are busy finding its flaws and not concentrating on its good contribution,” he said. For me, there is no perfect picture. It depends on the eyes of the photographer and his/her emotion when he/she captures a moment. I ignore it, but sometimes when it gets too personal, I stand what’s right. So don’t get easily discourage of bashers,” he affirmed. “Instead thank them because they are the one who motivates you to do well”, he pointed out. “Push lang nang push”. Furthermore, he uses his popularity to influence people. For example, he used his Facebook page to help gather donations for the victims of typhoon Yolanda. He did not expect that his Facebook shout out would gain more response and donations. 

   I enjoyed chatting with him because it’s fun and refreshing. Our conversation ended up because my phone rang. That time I realized that I have meeting to attend. When we separate ways, I still think his words. His story still resonates in my mind. I admire his dedication to help his hometown.

This article is originally written for SouthCotabatoNews.com 

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Cocoy Sexcion: A Photographer with the eyes of a god

   It’s a rare opportunity to meet a photographer where his/her passion speaks for itself. This kind of photographer is not conscious with his/her camera, but shows real enthusiasm in taking photos. One of them is Leonardo “Cocoy” Sexcion. He is more than a photographer. He is an artist with eyes of a god. His photography transcends among his contemporaries.

   Cocoy started in photography in 2004 with no equipment. His passion and determination help him a lot in pursuing his craft. At first he used film camera to shoot different majestic scenery in Sarangani, until such time that he purchased his first digital camera in 2005 (Nikon D70s). “For me, photography is more than just light and composition, it is the real life I want to capture at the right moment and that’s what we want people to see, to inspire them more than just to remember,” Cocoy said.

   For 9 years, he worked with Sarangani Provincial Information Office as Chief Photographer and at the same time Editor in Chief for photography (during the reign of former Gov. Miguel Dominguez). Outside government service, among his past and existing clientele includes Smart Communications – Public Affairs Office; Davao International Container Terminal; Info-Arch Communications (a Manila-based PR firm that has captured aerial shots of TADECO Banana plantation as well as ports/wharfs in Davao); VSM Realty Corporation; and Communications Group of Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC). “I wanted to capture the positive side of life. I wanted people to appreciate ordinary and little things through my photography,” Cocoy added.

   With his love for this craft, he received a lot of recognitions in the local and national scene. For example he won as Best Entry (Values Category- Professional Division) at Standard Chartered Bank Nationwide Photo Contest last 2012. He also won 1st Place in the recent SarBay Festival Photo contest (Sarangani Category). With these achievements he still remains humble and open for collaboration with other artists. It is no wonder that his clients always remain loyal to him. He makes sure that they are always satisfied and happy for his output. He sees his clients not just a mere client but a friend. In short, he is in demand freelance photographer. “I just let my craft to do the talking, I take photos to ‘express not to impress’”, Cocoy asserted.

   His influences in photography are Bobby Timonera, from whom he learned the basics in taking photographs, George Tapan, who taught him the ambient light to make photos and David Black whom he learned creative lighting in the absence of ideal natural lighting.

   When taking photos, first he needs to visualize it. He does his research about the area that he wants to shoot. He checks if there’s enough lighting and he is always open for new perspective to have a new angle/story, so that the outcome will be memorable and unique.

   As a photographer, one of his advocacies is to promote places that are worth promoting. For example, he takes photos of different places in Sarangani with no pay. His love for the province motivates him to have great shots. Camera does not matter to him. He puts more emphasis on the concept and ideas behind the photo. “Owning a camera doesn’t automatically make you a photographer. It just makes you a Canon or Nikon owner or whatever brand you prefer,” Cocoy said.

   Aside for being a photographer, he has natural inclination for music. He had a band called MIGS, and he was the lead guitarist and lyricist of the group.

   I admire Cocoy’s love for photography. He is one of the photographers that I have known to have genuine interest on it. He remains humble and he let his photos speak for themselves. He will inspire more aspiring photographers to take this craft seriously at the same enjoying it, and discourage the “camera conscious” idea in their minds. He is a one of a kind artist we should be proud of.

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Street Photography with Marvin Fernandez

photo by Sherika Mae

Marvin Fernandez, a Web Developer and fellow SOCCSKSARGEN Bloggers has a passion for street photography. In an interview, he shares his fondness on street photography.

_________

IGUOI FILMS: When did you start in photography?

MARVIN: I started taking pictures around 2010. I’m using a compact digital camera that time.

IGUOI FILMS: What motivates or inspires you to go into photography?

MARVIN: National geographic pictures. 

IGUOI FILMS: Why street photography?

MARVIN: I just discovered street photography around 2012 when my friend showed me several examples. It’s love at first sight. Street photography is more challenging since you can’t control how things will move plus you’ll get a chance to know people, talk to them and eventually learn from them.

IGUOI FILMS: How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?

MARVIN: I joined the facebook group called “Usapang Kalye” where they critic your photographs and make sure you learn from your mistakes. I received so much ditching from the group which helped a lot. I love how they see each photograph and point out the strength and weaknesses inside the frame.

IGUOI FILMS: Among your works, which one is your favorite? Why?

MARVIN: click this link 

This is the first photo where I had the best luck ever.

IGUOI FILMS: Whose work has influenced you most?

MARVIN: Alex Webb, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Gary Winogrand, Bruce Gilden

IGUOI FILMS: Can you identify a unifying theme or recurring thread running throughout your photographs?

MARVIN: I still don’t know. I am still in the process of learning the core of street photography. I still need to define it myself. It’s not easy but I know I’ll get there

IGUOI FILMS: What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos?

MARVIN: That I should have known street photography before

IGUOI FILMS: What kind of gear do you use?

Camera body – Canon 550D, Fuji x100s, Zenit 12XP Analog camera

Lens – Canon EFS 18-55mm, Canon EF 50mm, Fujinon 23mm 2.0, Photax 35mm

Tripod - Manfrotto

Filters – Hoya ND4

Flash - none

Camera bag – ordinary bag

IGUOI FILMS: Which is your favorite lens? Why? 

MARVIN: All. They function differently in different situations

IGUOI FILMS: When you go in one of your travels, what all you take with you? Why? 

MARVIN: The Fuji x100s, lightweight and compact. It does the job.

IGUOI FILMS: Among the gadgets that you own, is there something that you wish you hadn’t bought? Why? 

MARVIN: Nothing. I bought a gear for specific purpose and not just because of GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome)

IGUOI FILMS: What is your favorite camera?

MARVIN: Fuji x100s

IGUOI FILMS: What’s your dream project?

MARVIN: Documenting a gang culture

to check his other works you may go to

marvfernandez.com

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