On Wesak Day, two garlanded tuskers guard the altar of the Thai Buddhist Chetawan Temple.
Olympus OM-D, ISO 200, f6.3, 1/640 sec.
Stone Temple Elephants
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Author Archives: TV Smith
Totally Charming
Wesak (or Vesak) is tomorrow and many photography devotees will throng the various Buddhist temples with their cameras, I’m sure. There are a couple of things to keep in mind.
A tele lens may be handy, it is somewhat aloof for people candids. Instead of photographing from afar, make yourself visible and your intention clear. You will find people more relaxed when they are able talk to you (if they want to). Use a standard or wide lens and get up-close for a more intimate look. Also, while the festival may be an explosion of colours, some pictures actually work better in monochrome.
This little girl is trying to make the candle stand upright in a nervous first attempt. A totally charming moment like what her T-shirt says. Happy Vesak ahead.
Olympus OM-D, ISO 200, f4.5, 1/100 sec.
Beriani Gam
Happiness is Beriani with Rose Syrup.
Nasi Beriani Gam Johor in Bangi (Putrajaya) is out of the way but it is a treat always. Tucked away in kampung-like surroundings, the famous stall is consistently good but a little expensive for casual lunch. The Kambing Kuzi (lamb) rice is RM 23.
Biryani originated from the Mughal Empire and it remains popular cuisine in many parts of the Indian sub-continent today. The local Johor version derives its name from the gum-like sticky gravy.
The ultra-wide angle lens is not the usual choice for a food shot but I used it here for a reason. Its exaggerated perspective made the bicycle (that was parked too close) appear further. It also allowed a split view of the table and customers walking in.
Olympus OM-D, ISO 200, f4, 1/250 sec.
