Framed Shots Camera Club

Watersheds: Sheltering Life is Finalist in the 30th National Book Awards

2011-10-26T00:32:00.002+08:00

Watersheds: Sheltering Life is Finalist in the 30^th National Book Awards

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

“Watersheds: Sheltering Life” a coffeetable book that Jon P. Ave and I shot for Wide Angle Media, Inc. is a finalist in two categories of the 30^th National Book Awards.

The book designed by Jon P. Ave and was a finalist for the Design Category in the Literary Division and was also a finalist for the Science Category in Non-Literary Division with Grace Roxas as Writer and Edited by Ces Rodriguez for Wide Angle Media, Inc.

Winners will be announced on Nov.12, 2011 during the awarding ceremony at the National Museum.

Street Shooter

2011-09-12T16:58:00.006+08:00

Street Shooter

By YUGEL LOSORATA

PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE WEEK

Mary Joy Loyola Ganitano

It may not be that often but we do hear photographers bragging about their big-name subjects, ranging from the upstart showbiz personalities to the holder of the highest of electoral posts.

On the other hand, there are those like Mary Joy "MJ" Ganitano who would rather name-drop the nameless for the very same reason that they are, well, as important as the rich and famous.

MJ, a nephew of highly recognized lensman Edwin Loyola, has picked one

Mr. Lorenzo as a subject to remember. This Lorenzo is no business tycoon, nor someone who has gotten fame by virtue of overnight exposure via some reality-TV competition. He is

virtually a "nowhere man in his nowhere land," or as that famed early Beatles classic outside of romantic love has defined the homeless man on the street.

The beggar turned out to be a subject that made MJ to assess photography as beyond capturing scenes, or it is one way of freezing emotions.

“In 2009,” she recalled, “I joined the basic and advanced photography sponsored by the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation (FPPF). I had my pristine experience joining a street photowalk called 'One Camera, One Lens, One Day, One Street.’ It was through my shot of a street beggar named Mr. Lorenzo wherein I realized that in photography, you are not just capturing a significant moment. The real goal is you must have a conveyance of the subject’s innermost feelings.” Street photography is one of MJ’s favorite kinds of shoot, equally important as portraiture, still life, and landscape.

Capturing the emotions of people from different walks of life is always a good catch for this lady behind the camera who credits most to her multi-awarded mentor and uncle.

With such focus, high-profile targets are not required for MJ. Her eyes see no reason to discriminate the powerless. The poor and the jobless can be as interesting as the privileged. That partly explains why she bothered addressing a beggar as Mr. Lorenzo. Her shots put out that invisible red carpet for people deprived of their voice. More often, these street people finally get heard through the powerful silence her pictures project.

In the name of artistically moving images, there’s more sense clicking the shutter to get that sincere struggling look in a rag-clothed fellow than take a picture of a well-dressed man faking his smile.

“My candid shots try to reflect that honest and unprejudiced image and possibly remain distinct from one another," she humbly explained. “The mood of my shots is always simple, bare of complexity."

MJ, currently affiliated with Framed Shots Camera Club, has her share of recognition even if it meant that as of yet she’s still a mere shadow of her more llustrious uncle. She earned 2nd place spot for a contest that searched for the “Photographer of the Year Best in People Category.” Once she had likewise made the Photoworld Cup Top 30 cut.

Having developed a natural concern for society, it’s logical she finds the underprivileged truly worthy as subject. To take the matter deeper, she is serious about a personal goal of staging a photo exhibit for the benefit of a foundation calling itself Mission Save Kids with Cancer. She reiterated, “In photography, you have to pour your emotions and express what you feel. You must give life to your subject because it is the reflection of your heart and mind.

Photography as an art is conception, execution, and accomplishment in creating a significant and meaningful image.” Apart from Framed Shots, MJ is also linked up with bytephoto.com, Digital Image Café, and One Daily Shot. For her, mood plays a vital role in her shoots. “A very potent and effective photograph can be seen on how and why the images were conceived and produced. One’s works emulate the passion and emotion inside him or her,” she ended.

Simplicty Captured in Beauty

2011-06-24T10:28:00.002+08:00

Simplicty Captured in Beauty

By Yugel Losorata

PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE WEEK

John Paul Relativo

There’s beauty in simplicity. This holds true for John Paul “Jhigz” Relativo as he captures simple things and transform them into splendid images.

He even brings along his camera to shoot nightscapes. There's something about the earth under the moon that he sees worth freezing into lovely pictures of mystery and majesty.

"I love capturing landscape/nightscape because of the visualization perspective in relation to designs," he told Picture Perfect, then elaborated on why he prefers night over day in an almost jocular tone. "I love the feeling and excitement when shooting nightscape because here in Manila it's always ‘bawal dyan sir.’ During nighttime I can take photograph of these ‘bawal’ areas."

He added, "One tip when shooting nightscape is you have to wear black or dark shirt so the guards can't see you." That's a nice shot!

For him, shooting makes him feel inspired and happy. Every shot becomes a "paborito" in its own right and he feels energized in the process. When the right angle and right color combination mix up, a good picture is delivered and his portfolio piles up.

A member of Framed Shots Camera Club (FSCC) since 2009, Jhigz has his share of surprising wins as participant in photo contests. In just his third month as a member of the club, he already won 3rd place in the Photo World Cup inter-club photo competition with the theme "Gloomy

and Gray – Pollution." He also won fifth place in the Aliwan Festival 2011 photo competition. Using his 70-200mm Canon lens, he was chosen as one of the best from the more than 800 entries with his "Festive Warrior" subject.

"I appreciate colored photographs because they’re lively and colorful,” he said, providing another tip, this time as a “day- tripper.” "I like using off -camera flash when I take pictures during daytime because it gives a feeling of warm and natural look on the subject."

Jhigz’s elder brother influenced him a lot in photography, having joined company workshops that shared some basic knowledge about the craft.

Not long after he decided to buy a DSLR camera in 2008 and enrolled at the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation (FPPF) which immediately taught him basic photography.

This Architectural/Interior designer by day becomes a lensman by night.

As a lensman, he likewise loves taking still-life photos because these give him more leeway in the arrangement of design elements within a composition.

It is in still life that he finds himself creating pictures and not just clicking the shutter.

On the other side, he's also into wedding photography joining Chito Cleofas in some of the latter's coverage. Like all good shooters, he believes there is a story behind every photograph once emotions, feelings, wonder, and beauty come together.

"Becoming a photographer, whether as an amateur or for a living, can be

extremely pleasant," he shared. "It is one of those things where you're in a position to make something and have a record of it for as long as you want to. There are many beneficial aspects to it as a profession and as a hobby.

You can make money out of it and at the same time enjoying yourself while doing it."

In November 2009, Jhigz finally won first place in a Canon-sponsored photo contest with the theme "Architectural Perspective." Two entries he submitted to promote the beautiful Hamilo Coast ended up posted for attraction. That is very much in line with his vision to spend a long life of artistic contribution.

The owner of a StopNshoot photo booth business, Jhigz sees photography as a way of life or to be more poetic about it, “simplicity captured in beauty.”

In Search of Birds

2011-05-05T09:58:00.002+08:00

In Search Of Birds

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

After watching a late night tele-magazine show about migratory birds in the town of San Nicolas, Batangas, my wife Rosy and I decided to see and shoot them for ourselves. The bird experts interviewed said that these migratory birds are roosting in San Nicolas. This probably was the reason why the birds at Candaba, Pampanga are getting fewer. Gathering a few Framed Shots Camera Club members Chito Cleofas, Lea Ricolcol, and Roselyn Roldan, we set off for San Nicolas to search for the birds.

But heavy traffic along SLEX has a way of spoiling plans and arrived in Tagaytay at around 8AM where we stopped for a car trunk, standing room only breakfast of pan de sal and cream cheese. Breakfast and restroom breaks done and we’re off again, this time we have to meet fellow FS member Melvin Castrence in the town of Taal.

About an hour or so later we arrive at Taal town and meet up with Melvin where he shows us his beautiful sunrise shots of fishermen doing their morning chores that we missed as we were stuck in traffic at SLEX at the time. Lucky bastard.

Bird activity is usually in the early morning and late in the afternoon just before the sun went down. Not to be discouraged, we drove on towards San Nicolas, hoping that the birds would still be there.

We at last come to the town of San Nicolas but somehow didn’t meet anyone who could point us in the right direction off the birds. Even the local tricycle driver doesn’t have a clue and so we drove on, searching until we reach Barangay Manalao where Mang Peddy and his wife entertained us on their porch. We had an early lunch of pork adobo that Rosy prepared earlier, rice wrapped in banana leaves, salted eggs with diced tomatoes, Coke and bananas for dessert.

Around 1PM Mang Peddy and his other fisherman neighbors took us out to the lake where the fish pens are, its time to feed the fish. They say the fish are fed twice a day, once in the morning and again in the afternoon. With a view of the majestic and very active Taal Volcano, they took us by twos on small boats without outriggers so it’s a bit wobbly. You really have to be careful about your movements or you’ll be down in the lake with the fishes instead of shooting the birds.

At around 3:20 PM we head back to shore for some

merienda of Coke and pan de sal with cream cheese and checked out our shots via our camera’s LCDs. My shots weren’t that great as there weren’t enough birds to shoot, it’s not the same as we saw on TV. But I fairly have an idea why. Going back to shore we noticed the mountainside was burned down, trees, vegetation and all.

We packed up and passed by the Coast Guard only to be told that they were the ones who took around the TV crew and that we were shooting in the wrong place. They gave us the number of a Municipal employee who knows where and how to get to the birds. We even met a Barangay Chairman who owns a boat and says he can take us around next time.

Our last stop over was in Tagaytay’s Tower Bulalo. We had dinner of Tagaytay’s famous bulalo, tawilis and sizzling sisig and had a last glimpse of the Taal Volcano as it disappears in the fading twilight as we plan our trip back o San Nicolas in search of the elusive birds.

Houses Revisited

2011-04-13T11:38:00.004+08:00

Houses Revisited

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

The bahay kubo is a square-shaped hut found throughout the Philippines.

Its enduring charm and practicality has enabled it to be a distinct feature in Philippine architecture.

During the Spanish era, a new design in architecture focused on Fil-Hispanic baroque was introduced by the Spaniards as an adaptation to their needs. The bahay kubo was

reinforced and enlarged with stonewalls and floors and a tile roof. Then more rooms and ornaments were added and thus the 19^th century bahay na bato was born along with a new affluent lifestyle of the era.

Last April 10, 2011 the Intramuros Administration opened a special painting and paintography exhibit as part of the Intramuros Arts Festival to celebrate its 32^nd founding anniversary.

The exhibit titled “Bahay Kubo and Philippine Traditional Houses: Revisited” features selected artworks of well-known Filipino international artist Rosalinda Roman and noted Filipino international painter and photographer Victor Sison.

Roman shows different variations of the bahay kubo from various regions of the Philippines as part of a project for the Department of Tourism.

Sison on the other hand depicts the ancestral houses from Vigan, Ilocos Sur in his distinct style of combining photography and painting known as paintography.

The exhibit runs from April 10 to 17, 2011. Display hours are from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Ms. Raquel Flores, Public Relations Officer of Intramuros Administration and OIC of the Intramuros Visitor’s Center will be there to personally show you around the exhibit.

Tikim, Takam, Tsalap

2011-03-28T16:01:00.003+08:00

Tikim, Takam, Tsalap

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

The month of March brings in the summer wind, cool beaches and delicious food. Not just any kind of food but Filipino food we’ve all come to love throughout our rich history and culture.

And this month, Framed Shots Camera Club authors the second theme for the FPPF’s Photocup 2011 titled “Tikim, Takam, Tsalap”. This theme among others was suggested by FSCC member Nick Olayao and made it to the official themes for 2011.

In line with this, FSCC conducted a Food Photography workshop last March 19, 2011 at Carlo Zamora’s Sampaloc, Manila residence. Nick Olayao shared his food styling techniques while Carlo Zamora, Rico Gutierrez and I shared lighting techniques to club members. The morning session consisted of PowerPoint presentations while the practical application was conducted in the afternoon session.

Also present for the hands-on lessons was Carlo’s brother and photographer/businessman Chie Zamora. Chie gamely assisted members and gave practical advice on how to light food.

A day of sharing, shooting, eating and drinking beer. What more can you ask for? Bon appétit.

Pepper Santiago's Great Capture

2011-02-22T11:21:00.003+08:00

Pepper Santiago's Great Capture

This week's featured Photographer of the Week for Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect section is no other than Framed Shots Camera Club's 2010 Rookie of the Year Pepper Santiago. Article written by Yugel Losorata.

Zab Coloma's Delightful Outdoor Experience

2011-02-12T11:35:00.003+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club member Zab Coloma is the featured Photographer of the Week for Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect for February 08, 2011. Article written by Yugel Losorata.

Ino Inocencio In Control

2011-02-12T11:27:00.002+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club member Ino Inocencio is the featured Photographer of the Week for Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect for February 01, 2011. Article written by Yugel Losorata.

Carlo Zamora Lands Finalist Award In Oakwood's Trust Is Photography Competition

2011-02-12T11:10:00.004+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club member Carlo Zamora wins as a Finalist in Oakwood's Trust Is Photography Competition.

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners: Nov/B&W Landscape

2010-12-22T12:36:00.000+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners for On-The-Spot Photo Contest: Rizal-Laguna: Sense of Place

2010-11-17T14:03:00.001+08:00

Gina Alcera and Jennifer Santos Wins in All Saints Day OTS

2010-11-17T13:52:00.006+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club members Gina Alcera and Jennifer Santos placed 8th and 12th place respectively at the FPPF Photoworld Cup All Saints Day On-The-Spot Photo Contest. Chito Cleofas and Carlo Zamora also came in as Finalists. Congratulations to all Framed Shots winners!

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 3 Winners for On-The-Spot Photo Contest: Creative Art in Mono

2010-11-17T13:48:00.001+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners: Oct/All Rice

2010-11-15T18:11:00.000+08:00

Watersheds: Sheltering Life Book Launch

2010-10-14T22:28:00.005+08:00

Watersheds: Sheltering Life Book Launch

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Last Friday Oct. 01, 2010 4:00PM, the coffeetable book “Watersheds: Sheltering Life “ was launched by Wide Angle Media and Haribon Foundation at the GMA Network’s Executive Lounge. This is a project of the National Power Corporation along with Wide Angle Media as publisher.

Jon Ave, Publisher and Creative Director of Wide Angle Media and fellow Framed Shots Camera Club member tapped me to be one of the two photographers (him being the other one) for this project along with Grace Roxas as writer and Cholo Florencio as Project Director.

The program started with Mr. Blas Tabaranza of Haribon who acted as emcee, introduced Vice President for News Program Jessica Soho who gave the welcome remarks, Mr. Marlo Mendoza of DENR, Mr. Froilan Tampinco, National Power Corporation President and Jesus Francisco, Chairman of Haribon Foundation also gave meaningful messages about preserving and caring for our watersheds and a short audio-visual presentation using photos from the coffeetable book was shown by Haribon.

Mr. Mendoza, Mr. Tampinco, Mr. Francisco, Ms. Soho’s representative and Jon Ave unveiled the coffeetable book after which Jon delivered a very short message.

A mini exhibit of some of the photos used in the coffeetable book were on display at the hall as the NPC Chorale entertained us while we enjoyed the cocktails and guests got their copies of the coffeetable book. What amused me more was this kid who hopes to be a photographer someday coming up to us and having us sign his copy. It was both thrilling as having a young fan wanting you to sign his copy and daunting as you have this kid inspired by what we’ve done and have the power to affect such young lives.

The launch ended with a lot of books sold or pledged for by companies and individuals willing to help out in this cause. Proceeds of the book will go to Haribon’s ROAD to 2020 program that aims to restore a million hectares of Philippine forests using native species by the year 2020.

To Click and Connect

2010-10-06T11:37:00.002+08:00

Melvin Castrence was the featured photographer for Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect section last Oct. 5, 2010, written by Yugel Losorata.

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners: Sept/Beautiful Flaws of Nature

2010-10-06T11:33:00.001+08:00

Scoring That Winning Shot

2010-10-06T11:25:00.002+08:00

Brian Gabarda was the featured photogrpaher last Sept. 14, 2010 for Manila Bulletin's Picture Perfect section with Yugel Losorata writing the article.

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 10 Winners for Photo Assignment: What's Your Poison?

2010-09-09T16:50:00.000+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners: August/Tsinelas

2010-09-08T21:48:00.000+08:00

To Click and Care

2010-08-10T23:17:00.000+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners: July/Heal The World

2010-08-02T18:30:00.000+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 3 Winners for On-The-Spot Photo Contest: Paper Cut Outs

2010-07-06T23:56:00.000+08:00

Mark & Phoebe Aviles Win 3rd Place in BayLists Best Photographer

2010-07-06T20:02:00.002+08:00

Mark & Phoebe Aviles Win 3rd Place in BayLists Best Photographer

by Raneil Antonio Ibay

This is it Photography of Mark and Phoebe Aviles bags 3rd Place in BayList's Best Photographer.

To check out more of their work, just go to: http://thisisitphotography.photobiz.com/

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners: June/In The Eyes Of A Child

2010-06-27T13:03:00.000+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners for On-The-Spot Photo Contest: Zambales: Sense of Place

2010-06-24T15:51:00.001+08:00

The Click & Care Project

2010-06-24T00:14:00.006+08:00

The Click & Care Project

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

The Aeta child beams as she receives a bagful of basic school supplies and a school ID that bears her picture. For most of these kids, this is the first time that they experienced having their photo taken, something that we take for granted. Teacher Loida even asked Lee Viray Cahili of Lenti to explain to the parents what to expect when we take their children’s photos and so first conducted a demonstration.

Last Sunday, June 20, 2010 Framed Shots Camera Club through Dana Krizia Mengote and Lee Viray Cahili of Lenti Camera Club held an outreach project. A project that Lenti started, The Click and Care Project aims to provide basic school supplies like bags, books, pad papers, notebooks, pencils, crayons, slippers and identification cards or IDs to Grade 3 and below Aeta students at the Singles For Christ Gawad Kalinga Village in San Martin, Sto. Niño, Bamban, Tarlac.

Lenti members photographed the kids and made the IDs while Framed Shots members repacked and distributed the bags and IDs. It was both fun and hard work as it was hot inside that small classroom which Teacher Loida allowed us to use as a base of operations.

Donations came from Lenti and Framed Shots Camera Club members, Black Pencil Project, Puso sa Puso, Crystal Clear Water Clark and the Federation of Philippine Photographer’s Foundation (FPPF).

Dinno Sandoval of Pipho provided much needed help, Zab Coloma, Rosy and I hitched a ride with him and Dana. The donated items were also loaded in his SUV. We had some car trouble on the way to Tarlac nut that didn’t keep us from completing the project. Good thing we exited in time at Valenzuela and found a mechanic who fixed the brakes and had us on our way in just a little over an hour.

Fr. Artur Chrzanowski also provided assistance by driving his SUV and hitching Ino Inocencio, Brian Gabarda, Jenni Santos and Arnold Perez. Fr. Art said he didn’t do anything but shoot photos, I said to him that he has good intentions but told me that it was not enough. I told him that sometimes, just being there with the kids, sharing the experience with us is enough.

We had our very late lunch at Nayong Pilipino at Clark Expo courtesy of Lenti and had desert of Razon’s famous Halo-halo at Dau, Pampanga this time courtesy of Dana.

Rain greeted us at the NLEX on the way back to Manila, rain that also started our morning journey to Tarlac and I think it’s just a blessing from above for a job well done.

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners: May/Standing Out From The Crowd

2010-06-09T17:58:00.001+08:00

Capturing Untold Stories

2010-05-29T10:38:00.003+08:00

Dana Krizia Mengote - Capturing Untold Stories by Yugel Losorata

The best stories are yet to be told or captured. This is what motivates photographer Dana Krizia where she has produced beautiful photographs. The yearning to come out with images providing something new to the eye is at the core of her work, creating pictures that relay an artist’s crave in presenting faces and places in unusual forms.

Engrossed with travel photography, she takes her camera everywhere she goes and puts it out upon seeing “hidden beauties” for her portfolio. The various cultures she has experienced become stories she imparts through photography, with her penchant for details making each frame rich in information.

“Through photography, I try to share the stories and experiences I collect, hoping that through my photos, I could be able to change the life of someone,”

she tells Picture Perfect.

Her colleagues have been feeling such privilege while looking at her work as she regularly participates in the monthly contests of FPPF (Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation). Dana, a member of Framed Shots club, won in some of these competitions, including a first-place finish which one of her black-and-white shots bagged late last year.

She acknowledges the fact that she has developed special strength in doing colorless photographs. Her love for “simply yet strong” output pushed this to perfection, stressing the idea that drama is endlessly conveyed in black-and-white images.

She points out, “A good photograph may be simple, but must contain a powerful and strong message that beholds its viewer and sends a deep message. It does not need too many elements nor it be produced through technical highlights.”

A Broadcast Communication major from UP Diliman, Dana’s inclination to photography was evident. However, for some reason she could not get a slot in a photography class. She had to wait for the real world where work equals pay.

After receiving her first paycheck in 2008, she bought her first camera – a Nikon D80. That set her adventure on. At present, in her spare time as immigration officer at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, she makes sure she goes out, travel, and see different people and their way of life.

“I try my best to deliver stories that haven’t been told before, or try to reflect them in different angles,” she adds. Of course, like in music when most genres have been touched and one can only tweak those established styles to come out different, a lot of the times she brings out a common subject told in refreshing perspective.

It helps that she is influenced by the likes of Chito Cleofas, Edwin Loyola, and Gunther Deichmann. The way she mixes the artistry of these distinguished lensmen and her own style has generated quality output worth the admiration of some viewers.

The basic principle of love for work is no doubt the foundation of Dana’s craft. She believes that photography is her real “ID” to the world, identifying who she is deeper than just her name and looks. With it, she thinks, she delivers, and she shares.

“Love for work is most important in photography because you can never truly express art without investing emotionally in your photograph. Each shot carries a story, an emotion, and this can only be truly captured by a dedicated photographer who loves what he is doing,” discloses the lady shooter.

When asked about her deepest view on photography, she enthuses, “Photography captivates me in a way nothing else can. The opportunity to tell a story in a single frame leaves me shivering with excitement and delight.”

People who look at her work actually share the same feeling of thrill and satisfaction.

Photography With A Difference - Touching Lives Through Photography

2010-05-18T14:05:00.007+08:00

Photography With A Difference - Touching Lives Through Photography

Text and Photos By Joel Garcia

From May 8 to May 20, 2010 (Extended), at the Main Atrium, The Block at SM North Edsa, It features children with visual impairment visiting Manila Kiddie Zoo on March 20, 2010.

This event was conceptualized by Mr. John Chua of Adphoto, and organized by Ms. Bernie Paras Gan. Together with 22 volunteer photographers including me. But I, have a special task to document all groups, they invited the children and their families for a zoo visit.

They guided the children through the aviary. Hand in hand, they sauntered the swaying bridge, jumping up and down to amplify the motion. The children, throwing caution to the wind, zoomed the Zip Line, heads bent backward, reckless and carefree. They climbed the rock wall, gingerly at first, then with increased confidence & speed! How elated they were when they reached the top! They saw the animals up close. They explored with their fingers, their ears, and nostrils, to learn, in their unique, special way, what was a wild boar, a crocodile, and a giant python!

Imagine what a joy it was to ride the ostrich, the rock-like turtles, and the miniature horse. And of course, who could forget the experience of feeding bananas to Mali, the elephant, who startled the children by splashing water all over!

While the children were engrossed in their encounter with the animals, the photographers got fired up, with pure joy; they shot away, capturing moments of joy and bewilderment of the Zoo visitors. It was such a sight! Volunteers shooting away with their hearts!

They felt fulfilled when they saw the families’ smiles – upon seeing the pictures, courtesy of Canon, Philippines.

The sponsors of this event are SM Supermalls, Canon Philippines and Manila Kiddie Zoo. Photography With a Difference –featuring Visually Impaired Children touring Manila Zoo is the first of a series of photo exhibits to be held at the local SM Supermalls - showcasing the photos from similar events with all sectors of PWDs (persons with disabilities).

Parent Advocates for Visually Impaired Children (PAVIC) and Resources for the Blind, Inc. (RBI) are proud to be partners in this meaningful event.

In this exhibit, we hope to create awareness for the special needs of people with disabilities. Witness this day where human compassion overcomes physical challenges and individual differences. Spread this story of togetherness so that it will be duplicated. Together we can make this world a better place, for the sighted and the visually impaired alike.

Canon’s ClubEOS Raw Adventures and Hamilo Coast Photo Exhibit

2010-05-08T21:38:00.004+08:00

Canon’s ClubEOS Raw Adventures and Hamilo Coast Photo Exhibit is now open.

This runs from May 8-14, 2010 at the Hamilo Coast Show Room, One eComm Center, Harbor Drive, Mall of Asia Complex.

Framed Shots Camera Club members Jhigz Relativo and Nick Olayao are included among the photographers featured in the exhibit. Participating ClubEOS members were each asked to submit 3 photos each and Jhigz and Nick each had 2 photos approved for exhibition.

Intramuros Is Indeed Forever

2010-05-08T21:20:00.009+08:00

Intramuros Is Indeed Forever

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Docu Photos by Nick Olayao

Framed Shots Camera Club members once again finished strongly in another photo contest. 2010 Chairman Nick Olayao placed 5^{th in the Intramuros is Forever Photo Contest. According to Mrs. Huang, FPPF Chairperson, this is a historical contest of sorts as never in the history of the FPPF did they receive so much enthusiasm for a photo contest; it garnered an astounding 2,497 entries.}

Nick’s winning entry showed the domed towers of the Manila Cathedral framed in foliage and trees and shot in infrared. Worried that all his shots were shot in infrared (entries had to be in color), he didn’t process his shot so as to retain the mono-colored feel of the unprocessed infrared photo.

Framed Shots members who are among the Top 50 Finalists are Carlo Zamora and Gina Alcera. Carlo’s photo is of an old adobe building. He angled his handheld camera up a flight of steps littered with magenta colored flowers and popped a strobe fitted with warm gel and a radio trigger towards an arched doorway with another flight of steps leading up the building.

Gina on the other hand used the ornament of a horse carriage to frame a “gwardia civil” sitting in front of a table scribbling on a piece of paper, warm light coming in from an opened door from the right of the subject.

Looking at their photos, I felt like I was traveling back in time. It was as if Jose Rizal would pop out from one of the doors or windows in the photos. Intramuros is indeed forever as all their photos did exude certain nostalgia.

Chito Cleofas Wins WPPP Photo of the Year 2009

2010-05-08T21:16:00.002+08:00

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Viewing the exhibit area with Rosy, we saw this photograph of a bride taking the hand of his father in a “mano po” gesture. The father who is on a wheel chair looks lovingly at her daughter whom he is about to give her hand in marriage. Such irony in such a meaningful yet simple looking shot.

There were no names on the framed photos because the judging was on going but we guessed that it had to be Chito’s photo. I called him up to confirm it and true enough it was his. I told him that in my opinion, his photo is a strong contender as it stood out from the rest.

He called me after a couple of days later and happily announced that his photo was awarded as WPPP’s Photo of the Year 2009, besting some of the wedding photography industry’s best of the best.

As Spicy As It Gets

2010-05-06T18:32:00.009+08:00

As Spicy As It Gets

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Dawn breaks as we board our plane to Legaspi, Albay. Nearly an hour after, we arrived and had breakfast of fried fish, longganisa, rice and coffee to start up our sluggish systems. We then went our way on a 2-½ hour ride to the town of Oas on our rented van with Jun K manning the wheel. You see, Mang Jun or Jun K as we fondly call him is running in the local elections as a Kagawad or Councilor, so he gets to campaign while driving us there.

Arriving in Brgy. Iraya, we are greeted by the cool sea breeze and Tata Berto who acted as our guide and occasional model during our trip. Oas is not a usual tourist destination so there are no hotels or resorts around. We had home stay accommodations at Ate Melyn’s place, a nice and homey house with very good home cooking which all of us loved.

Oas was founded during the Spanish Colonization of the Bicol Peninsula. Father Baltazar de los Reyes converted 12 leading natives of the area to Christianity in one day in 1605 to form the foundation of the community now known as Oas. There are three stories that tell about Oas’ origin. But this one is my favorite.

Early Spanish Colonizers reached this section of the Bicol Peninsula and asked about 600 natives the name of the place. “Como se llama este sitio?” they asked accompanied with hand gestures.

“Onan kading lugar kadi, maiwas?” (What place is this, it’s very big?), the natives thought the question to be. In response, they answered “Si, señores. Labi nikading iwas.” (Yes sirs, this grand and spacious.). Early Spanish colonizers from then on adapted in their official census the existence of a “rich fertile valley with verdant fields of grain” which is the little town of Oas, Bicol.

Lunch consisted of Cocido (a chickpea-based vegetable and meat stew), fried Talakitok, Botong (rice wrapped in banana leaves and cooked with gata or coconut extract), Dinuguan (cooked with coconut milk extract) and fresh buko juice. A lazy afternoon nap was in order before hitting the beach to shoot some local scenes. It was a bit of an overcast afternoon but it was perfect for shooting a man weaving coconut leaves for roofing, kids playing on the low tide beach, a Kingfisher on the lookout for food and fishermen mending their nets.

We went back to the house for some merienda of freshly fried Maruya and ice-cold Coke. Refreshed, we again hit the beach, hoping for a spectacular sunset. No dice here though, as it was an overcast afternoon, we didn’t get a sunset but there were beautiful cloud formations and local activity going on at the beach. I shot beached boats and rocks and sea urchins on the low-tide waters while my wife Rosy and Framed Shots Camera Club friends Lea, Roselyn, Rellie, Rico, Nick and Geo shot landscapes, seascapes and portraits of children and fishermen strobist style.

Everyone was in high spirits going back to the house with flashlights to show us the way. For dinner we had the hot or spicy version of Pinangat (Gabi leaves mixed with coconut milk extract), crispy-fried Dilis (the fish used here is way bigger than the ones I’m used to seeing for this dish) and of course the spicy and chili laden Bicol Express. For desert, you pick a banana from a cluster hanging by the window of the hut beside the dinning table. Another round of coffee and stories of our adventures and misadventures carried us well into the night. As spicy as it gets, this was just the first day of a six-day Bicol trip.

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 3 Winners for On-The-Spot Photo Contest: Products

2010-05-06T17:52:00.003+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners: Apr/Beautiful Blur

2010-04-25T17:35:00.002+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners for Photo Assignment: Capturing Time

2010-04-20T11:28:00.001+08:00

Mike Sabarre - Touching Viewers’ Hearts

2010-04-13T11:27:00.003+08:00

Mike Sabarre - Touching Viewers’ Hearts

by Yugel Losorata

Good photographs make heads turn. The great ones get past the scrutiny of the eyes and directly hit the viewers’ heart.

Thirty-three- year-old hobbyist Michael Raymund Sabarre has that mindset

each time he shoots. He believes that an image with a heart stands out longer than a purely intriguing picture. “An effective photograph,” he points out, “is one that touches the heart of the vie

wer. One can never forget a photograph if he can feel what is being expressed within that single frame.”

Going over Sabarre’s portfolio should convince one that he knows what he is saying. The photos linger in the mind long after the stare. He mixes beauty with reality in his shots and the result, more often than not, is visually fascinating. He does not specialize in one subject since he counts on what amazes him.

Coming straight from his mouth, he mentions that he shoots anything from people to details, patterns, or anything that makes a place unique.

This Manila-born lensman has done industrial shoots, weddings, debuts, events, and portraits. His love for traveling obviously makes him delve into shooting places. According to him, the best thing about being a photographer is the ability to capture once-in-a-lifetime moments as they unfold in your very eyes. It satisfies him endlessly knowing that he has the gift in showing other people how he sees certain images.

Sabarre’s passion for photography dates back to his elementary days where he used to hold a camera during out-of-town trips. He had this autofocus instamatic camera back then, with his dad always reminding him to shoot people. His fascination for human-interest scenes developed almost immediately.

In 2005, he finally got a Nikon D70 and the equipment pushed him to learn more the technical aspects of the craft. Two

years later, he found himself joining “photo walks” where he met other hobbyists. He learned post-processing techniques from friends Jon Aguirre and Dinno Sandoval, but without sacrificing his natural understanding about visual art.

“As a photographer, I have met great people from whom I have learned a lot. Now I am committed to bringing photography closer to the hearts of beginners, intermediates, and professionals alike by organizing specialized workshops and seminars to further the growth of Filipino photographers,” he discloses.

At present, he is organizing workshops to help photographer- friends Carlo Carlos, Borj Meneses, Caloy Zamora, Chito Cleofas, among others.

In 2008, Sabarre joined the Framed Shots Camera Club where he is now one of the club’s board members. That same year, he ended up as finalist for the well-acknowledged Epson photo contest. He got even better last year when he became one of only four Filipinos who made it to the finals of a DC Magazine UK-spearheaded competition last year. He placed 8th in the Photoworld Cup’s “Bayan Ko” theme.

A friendly guy who also loves cooking, Sabarre, who grew up in Noveleta Cavite, assures that he is in good mood every time he carries his camera. “Only a photographer with a clear mind and open heart can capture good images,” he shares.

He has also a clear vision as he expects to spend a lifetime as a lensman. “My ultimate goal is to help bring the community of Filipino photographers closer together – the bonds to form and the passing of knowledge to happen; to bridge the gap between the old and new, the conventional and unorthodox; and to ensure that the spirit and creativity embodied in Philippine photography should live on.”

Indeed, photography has captured the heart of Michael Sabarre as illustrated in his impressive portfolio and his passion for the art.

Joel Garcia in Focus

2010-04-10T11:12:00.008+08:00

Joel Garcia in Focus

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Framed Shots Camera Club member Joel Garcia has been a consistent contributor for Digital Photographer Philippines magazine and is the featured photographer on their latest issue.

Here he shares his techniques as a street photographer with anecdotes on how he got some of the photos featured in the article.

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners: March/Where The Streets Have No Name

2010-04-06T11:21:00.003+08:00

Framed Shots Camera Club Top 15 Winners: February/Philippine Churches

2010-03-12T22:19:00.005+08:00

Chasing Dragons

2010-03-03T19:34:00.006+08:00

Chasing Dragons

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Loud festive music fills the air as we walk the streets of Binondo. “Kung Hei Fat Choi!” a man greets us as we approach a store in Ongpin. It’s the year of the Metal Tiger, with a little luck we hope to capture its grand entrance. This is my first time to shoot the Chinese New Year in Binondo and its starting out with a bang.

Framed Shots Camera Club members Geo and George Esguerra, Mike Sabarre and friend Lee Viray Cahili, Jon Macalino and friends, Carrie Ong Tan Ka and Marge Ang, my wife Rosy and 2010 FSCC Vice Chairman Lea Ricolcol who organized the shoot, met at the plaza in front of Binondo Church last Saturday, Feb. 13 to shoot Chinese New Year celebrations.

Marge acted as our tour guide as we navigated through the streets of Binondo chasing violet and green dragons and occasionally taking shelter in the shops from the exploding fireworks. Carrie later joined us and also helped herd us through the streets crowded with revelers, vendors and shoppers.

Chancing upon a resting dragon, we took the opportunity to shoot it as we saw Joel Garcia and Ma-anne Roque also shooting the celebrations. We then proceeded to a temple and had a field day shooting. This was our last stop then we had a snack of pancit, dim sum and dumplings, oyster and radish cake and some black gulaman at President courtesy of Mariano Ong Tan Ka. I learned that he is also a Feng Shui master and shared with us some wisdom about the Chinese way.

Coming to a full circle, we ended the day back at the plaza shooting kids playing in the fountain. Some of us hitched a ride with Mike while Rosy and I with Ate Lea. We had a nightcap at Ate Lea’s place, sharing stories of the day’s chase.

The chase may be over but the search for the real gems in our treasure trove of photos is just about to start.

New Perspectives

2010-01-04T17:40:00.002+08:00

New Perspectives

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Those of us who work in Makati probably see this scene everyday, but who among us did actually took a shot to record it. Well, John Paul “Jhigz” Relativo did and it won him 1^st Place in Canon’s Club EOS Winning Shot for November.

His entry entitled “One Point Perspective”, it shows a beautiful perspective of the Makati Stock Exchange with stone balls lined up on the foreground as the lines of the awning and ceiling converge towards the center of the image.

For his winning shot, Jhigz earns 3 points, an 11^th Edition EF Lens Workbook and a 1/6 miniature scale model of the EOS 5D attached with a 24-105mm f/4 IS USM lens.

There’s Land, There’s Ayala Land and There’s George Esguerra

2010-01-04T17:22:00.007+08:00

There’s Land, There’s Ayala Land and There’s George Esguerra Jr.

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

George Esguerra Jr. recently won 3^rd Place at the Ayala Land and Pinoy Photography Organization sponsored

“There’s Land. And There’s Ayala Land.” On-The-Spot Photo Competition. It was held last Nov. 28, 2009 from 6:00 AM to 2:3 PM at the Tower One and Stock Exchange Plaza of the Ayala Triangle, Ayala Avenue in Makati City.

George wins P10, 000 for his entry of a photo of palm trees receding farther as Ayala Tower One stands tall in the background.

Another Framed Shots Camera Club member Jhigz Relativo is also declared as one of the Finalists.

Chito Cleofas Wins Epson Color Imaging Photo Contest 2009

2009-12-12T10:12:00.004+08:00

Chito Cleofas Wins Epson Color Imaging Photo Contest 2009

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Making another splash in the Epson Color Imaging Photo Contest 2009 is Framed Shots Camera Club member Chito Cleofas. His shot of an ice cream vendor braving the flood and looks on as a pick up truck passes by creating a wave and a splash entitled “Splash In A Rush” impressed the judges the most, thus giving him the grand prize. He wins P20, 000, an Epson Stylus 700X printer and the chance to represent our country in the international finals to be held in Japan.

Rounding up the Runner-Up awards is Sean Dinno Sandoval’s shot of 3 boys running gleefully along a rural fenced road entitled “Mahuli Taya” and Raniel Castañeda’s shot of a bountiful harvest entitled “Corn Harvest”.

The awarding was held last Dec. 09, 2009 at The Podium’s Atrium with an exhibit of all the winning photos. Epson ambassadors like George Tapan, Bien Bautista, Ben Cabrerra and Robert Alejandro’s work are also exhibited.

After the awarding, some coffee and pastries courtesy of Chito served as a late afternoon merienda for our group. Congratulations to Chito Cleofas and all the winners!

October/My Dream Winners

2009-12-02T13:57:00.000+08:00

September/Filipiñana/Fashion Winners

2009-12-01T00:27:00.001+08:00

FS Members in Digital Camera Photographer of the Year 2009 Shortlist

2009-11-04T11:19:00.004+08:00

FS Members in Digital Camera Photographer of the Year 2009 Shortlist

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Over 100,00 entries were received for this year's Digital Camera Photographer of the Year Competition and 2 of our members got shortlisted as Editor's Choice.

Edwin Loyola's “Bamboo Raft” and Mike Sabarre's “Look Left” were both shortlisted in the “Destination Everywhere” category and will be part of the final judging.

Commended images will be revealed on November 20 and the winning images on December 9, 2009 with an exhibit at the Mall Galleries in London from December 9 to 13.

2008 also saw Bubuy Ringler winning the “Creative Vision” category with his entry “Away From It All” and Parc Cruz being commended for his entry “Monroe”.

And in 2007, Caloy Zamora took home the Second Place for his entry “No Fear”

So for this year's competition, let's hope and pray that Edwin and Mike win. Go FS!

FSOTS "High Key and Low Key" Winners

2009-11-04T02:08:00.001+08:00

National Bookstore's “Take A Shot At Reading” Photo Contest Winner

2009-09-08T17:59:00.003+08:00

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Framed Shots Camera Club's Carlo Zamora takes home the grand prize in National Bookstore's “Take A Shot At Reading” Photo Contest.

The club's 2006 Rookie of the Year awardee and this year's Contest Committee Chairman submitted a photo depicting the joys of reading in a place where books are a rarity.

It shows 3 boys enjoying the book “The Ant and the Grasshopper” given by Carlo in Guilingan, Rizal, Palawan during one of his family's out-of-town trips.

The competition invited Filipinos of all ages to express their love for books through a creative photo portraying how a book has changed their lives for the better. It also aims to promote the value of reading and literacy.

Carlo's entry shows that reading is fun for the kids and clearly deserves the grand prize.

August/Minimalist/Still Life Winners

2009-09-03T21:30:00.002+08:00

July/Negative Space Winners

2009-08-04T22:51:00.002+08:00

Zambales OTS Winners_Sense of Place

2009-07-17T15:40:00.001+08:00

June/Bayan Ko Winners

2009-06-28T14:55:00.003+08:00

May/Environmental Portrait Winners

2009-06-28T14:48:00.005+08:00

How to be Invited in All-Expense Paid Trips thru FPPF

2009-06-09T01:09:00.005+08:00

How to be Invited in All-Expense Paid Trips thru FPPF

WARNING: For FS consumption only!

By Rosy Villasanta-Ibay

One of the things I learned early in my life is that TRUST is earned; it is not automatically given.

In our position now as member-photographers of the FFPF, whose trust should we earn? Mrs. Huang’s, of course. Do you know who Mrs. Huang is? What she looks like?

For those who have no idea who she is, she is the grand old lady of FPPF, the force behind it, the Chairman.

As to how she looks like, she sounds like a perpetual slow motion (hehe) if there is such a thing. Why earn her trust? So you would be one of the first she’d call when there are emergencies or calls for help but more importantly (as this is THE perk), when there are limited-only-all-expense paid trips for FPPF photographers. Logically, she would only call those she trusts, those she knows she could rely on, those she is sure would deliver the expected bacon. In short, yung mga subok na nya, mga kilala na nya. How could we earn her trust? Attend the monthly photocup judging regularly. Volunteer to help during FPPF activities such as the photocup monthly meetings, Photo World week every January, Photo Summit every August. Hang out in

the FPPF office but be sure not to be a nuisance.

If you constantly win in photo contests, she’d remember your name from time to time or maybe, just maybe, it would ring a bell…. sometimes. But the key here is being constantly seen not just heard of. So that is the tale, actually the secret, how seven of us ended in Baler two weeks ago.

Take note, if my counting ability is right on track, FS has the most number of members in Mrs. Huang’s phone list.

Side Note: Attending the Monthly Photocup Meeting

Aside from being retained in Mrs.Huang’s memory, what else would we get in attending the Photocup? Exposure. Awareness. Exposure to other camera clubs and their members, awareness on what goes on in the photography world outside of Framed Shots, a glimpse of what wins and what do not, how the judges judge (or misjudge hmmm), or simply knowing what goes on, what’s in, what’s not.

Baler Buena Vista Photo Contest Winners

2009-06-08T10:57:00.007+08:00

Baler Buena Vista Photo Contest Winners

Rosy Villasanta – Ibay

Upon the invitation of National Commission on Culture and Arts (NCCA) Chairman Cecille Guidote – Alvarez and Aurora Province Governor Bella Flor Angara – Castillo, a group of photographers from the Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation (FPPF) went to Baler, Aurora to shoot the scenic sites there. With about 25 photographers from the FPPF, a mini photo contest was held and the winners’ photos are now displayed in an exhibit at the Senate second floor lobby along with photographs of birds, both common and endemic to Baler.

The winners of the photo contest are:

Chito Cleofas, 1^st Place, Dewey Sergio, 2^nd Place, and Benjamin Jacinto, 3^rd Place. Special awards were given to a photo entry of Gina Meneses and two entries of Arnold Giron. Honorable mention were Carlo Zamora (2 photos), Raneil Antonio Ibay (2 photos), Jonathan Cayaon (2 photos), Chito Cleofas (1 photo), Nick Olayao (1 photo), Gem Yabut (1 photo), and Drew Magturo (1 photo).

After the exhibit in the Senate, the winning Baler photos and the bird photo collection, would be displayed in Marikina and in Baler, Aurora.

June 2009 Meeting

2009-06-04T14:28:00.002+08:00

2nd Floor PBSP Bldg.
Magallanes corner Real St.,
Intramuros, Manila

June 7, 2009 12:00 noon

Photo Contests:
1. PWC Theme: "Bayan ko"
2. Summer Outing OTS: "Sense of Place"

Guest Speaker:
Mr. Mark Floro on Food Photography

Reminders:

1. Please take note of the earlier than usual start of our meeting for this month.
2. This month's meeting is exclusive for members only.
3. Please update your membership dues.

Back in Zambales

2009-06-02T00:42:00.011+08:00

Back in Zambales

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

And we’re back. Framed Shots Camera Club recently held its summer outing at Dawal Beach Resort in Barrio Uacon, Candelaria, Zambales and again experienced the beauty of Potipot Island. This trip was made possible thru the efforts of the 2009 Framed Shots Board headed by Chairman Lea Ricolcol. Roselyn Roldan was tireless in organizing almost everything while Arnold Perez who, up to the last minute was hounding us with our payments, did collection.

Our journey started at Buendia where club members met up at an ungodly 12 midnight. The reason being would be to just sleep through the 6-hour travel time. Our bus left at 12:45AM and arrived at Zambales at 6:15AM.

Nothing happened much along the way save for Kenneth making the rounds with a bottle of tequila and giving anyone who wanted one a shot, hot pan de sal being passed on along the aisle by Mariano Ong Tan Ka and a few pit stops in the town of San Fernando, Pampanga and another in a town that I didn’t take note of because of grogginess from sleep. I knew from the last stop that we were close because the sky was beginning to get light. And true enough, a couple of songs from my mp3 player and we arrived at Dawal.

A hearty breakfast with a choice of Tapa, Tocino, Longganisa and Daing na Bangus, with Fried Egg and coffee booted up our systems. After a change of clothes, we then proceeded to the beach for our very short boat ride, about 5 minutes (yes, it’s that close), to Potipot Island. It was quite a wait as there were a lot of people that came before us and only two boats from the resort. Our own group alone took 7 boat trips. That’s P400 per 6 persons, back and forth, inclusive of life vest.

On the island, everyone had a great time exploring the place, shooting photos or just chilling out on the beach. Caloy Zamora and I gave impromptu strobist lessons to the club’s new members. Jun Danganan gamely posed for the lessons as so did Humphrey Cogay, Jigz Relativo, Carrie Ong Tan Ka and Rellie Lopez.

In the water, Lea Ricolcol, my wife Rosy, Chito Cleofas, Jenny Santos, Rina Lee, Tin Leslie, Roselyn Roldan, Michelle Barretto and Kenneth Si had fun goofing around with Rellie’s new underwater camera and housing. Margaret

Ang also used hers while Joel Garcia’s DSLR nearly got soaked by a wayward wave as he was trying to shoot us having an excellent time on the beach. It was chill time for Zab Coloma and his wife, also for Gina Alcera and Sam Asia.

Towards the end of the day, the club reunited with their pre-drawn groups and tried to capture the Best Group Shot to be judged during our next monthly meeting. The day would have been perfect if we spent the sunset at the island as originally planned but the boatman said the waves were getting big and that we should start going back to the resort. To complicate matters, they only had one boat and our group of 38 and other groups were all wanting to go back in a hurry. Everyone had reasons to be the first one on the boat. Ours was because we were chasing the sunset. I also thought that they just wanted to have our cottage rented out to another group who just came in that’s why they asked us to be ready by 5PM, an hour earlier than the agreed time of 6PM. Anyway, not refusing to let that dampen our spirits, we continued shooting the sunset back at Dawal Beach Resort.

After dinner we then had more fun singing in the videoke. Concert King Jon Macalinao was a revelation, so was Humphrey Cogay and Jun Danganan. Nick Olayao wowed us as usual and so did Gina Aguilar, Rellie Lopez and Arnold Perez. The night went on as Arnie Aranjuez was making the rounds and making sure that everyone gets their shot of tequila and later on beer. I went back to our room drunk as a fish. I was expecting another monster hangover. Thank God it was just a beer buzz.

The following day, after breakfast we went to a mangrove area that Brian Gabarda discovered earlier in the day. Everyone had a heyday shooting a local boy, Ran-ran and her mother Aling Fe and her mother-in-law Lola Aniceta. Jun and Edwin Loyola also gamely posed after some prodding after the group ran out of subjects to shoot.

Back at the resort, we prepared to leave before lunch, as the trip back to Manila will take 6 hours. On the way back, we had numerous stopovers one of which was at the Masinloc and Oyon Bays Protected Seascapes. Again, the group had a field day shooting rural seaside scenes.

Back at the bus, the trip was quite uneventful. Probably everyone was just tired. Tired but happy that the trip was a success and looking forward to another summer of fun.

Summer Outing 2009: Potipot Island, Zambales

2009-05-21T00:01:00.000+08:00

May 16 - 17, 2009

Potipot Island, Zambales
Dawal Resort, Candelaria, Zambales

CANDELARIA - Framed Shots Camera Club
Outing 2009 By Joel H. Garcia from Joel H. Garcia on Vimeo.

May 2009 Meeting

2009-05-20T10:59:00.003+08:00

2nd Floor PBSP Bldg.
Magallanes cor. Real St.,
Intramuros, Manila

Last May 10, 2009

Regular Photo Contest
PWC Theme: Environmental Portrait
Title: "I love earth!"

1st Place - Raneil Ibay
2nd Place - Nick Olayao
3rd Place - Arnie Aranjuez
4th Place - Caloy Zamora
5th Place - Rosy Ibay
6th Place - Jun Danganan
7th Place - Gina Aguilar
8th Place - Chito Cleofas
9th Place - Jun Maximo
10th Place - Lea Ricolcol

Ramdom Photos by Joel Garcia

Keeping The Scene

2009-05-07T13:35:00.008+08:00

Keeping The Scene

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Stuck in the heavy traffic of Makati in the middle of a sweltering and sleepy afternoon, commuters scurry to their destinations, some even bumping into each other nearly exchanging faces as they try to beat the blinking “Do Not Cross” sign. Out from nowhere, a paraplegic slowly and painfully inches his way amidst the onslaught of human stampede. He is pedaling, with his hands, a contraption that is a cross between a wheelchair, a mountain bike and a go-kart, sweat running down the side of his forehead with every turn of the crank. A great shot. My photographer friend and I looked at each other not believing that we both do not have a camera on hand.

I guess this happens to all of us. It’s like the unwritten law of “Seek and you shall not find”. This however, is the reverse of that law, “Thou shall not bring a camera and an amazing scene shall appear before you”. Ever found yourself saying, “It’s just a short trip, no need to bring a camera, and besides, it’s raining.”, then along comes a scene of children playing, not minding the busy street and rain.

Such is the curse of photographers. We see things others barely even notice and if we’re lucky enough, record it with our cameras. But we cannot always be holding our cameras try as we can. My mind flashes into a scene of me in the bathroom holding a wad of tissue paper on one hand and a camera on the other. Not a pretty sight.

For all the scenes that I did record, I utter “Thank you” to the one above, and for all the missed photo opportunities that came my way, I say another “Thank You” for giving me the eye to recognize these things and keep the scene in the treasure chest of my brain, hoping someday to come across something similar and hopefully capture it.

Taste The Summer

2009-04-17T00:28:00.006+08:00

Taste The Summer

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

The dawn slowly breaks the cold night as we step out of the van, camera and tripods in hand patiently expecting the coming of another amazing Baguio sunrise.

It’s around 4AM when we arrived by bus. Chito, Raymond, Gina, Rosy and I were met by Manong Ronnie, our driver and tour guide and take us to a 24-hour diner for an early breakfast. We then met up with Rellie, Kenneth and Michelle who came by car and we were off for a day of shooting in the City of Pines.

The cold easily burned out as the day progressed, hinting a taste of the summer to come. We visited timeless tourist spots such as the Baguio Cathedral, Wright Park, The Mansion, Mines View Park, Good Shepherd, Baguio Botanical Garden, Burnham Park and Tam-awan Village.

Tam-awan, a haven for local artists is an excellent place to view and buy local art and souvenirs. The food at Tam-awan was also superb. Tuyo (dried fish) with Lumpiang Shanghai, fried egg and mountain rice plus a mug of mountain coffee really hit the spot.

Of course a trip to Baguio wouldn’t be complete without going to the market and the ukay-ukay. Chito, Raymond and Rellie went for the Ukay-ukay while Gina, Michelle, Rosy and I hit the market. The market offers delicious local delicacies, local handicraft, amazingly cheap fruits and vegetables and anything you could possibly think of. Just beware of dishonest vendors with faulty weighing scales and pickpockets and you’ll be all right. The Ukay-ukay is a great place to find bargains of one-of-a-kind apparel.

Tired and weary after 2 days of shooting pictures in the Philippines’ Summer Capital, we went back home knowing fully well that this was just a taste of things to come and that there will be more of this trips to where our heart fancies during this hot and hopefully endless summer.

FS Goes to Zambales

2009-04-07T11:15:00.011+08:00

by Raneil Antonio Ibay

A trip organized by Chito Cleofas that was supposed to be for a photo contest in Sta. Cruz, Zambales turned out to be a mini outing and occular for the camera club's summer outing as a turn ofevents took us to Hermano Menor and later on to Potipot Island. These show the fun we had going there on a trip without a real destination. Chito, Arnie, Gina, Roselyn, Kenneth, Rosy and I just went with the flow and literally let the tides take us to this beautiful island. A sort of happy accident.

March PhotoWorld Cup Report

2009-03-10T23:34:00.013+08:00

by Arnie Aranjuez

Theme: "Reminiscin'" - Best of 2008
Date: March 7, 2009
Place: FPPF Office, Intramuros, Manila
Judges:
Mr.Joseph Galian
Mr.Dennis Araneta
Mr. Lito L. De Guzman
Mr.Bernardo Fernando
Mr.Willy Marbella
Mr. Toch Arellano

The start for the PhotoWorld Cup 2009 race is on! Who will be the next Camera Club and the Photographer of the Year 2009?

With the scores reset to zero and all participating camera clubs even on the starting line, it was defending champion, Framed Shots Camera Club (FSCC), who was first off the starting block and made a commanding lead at the start of the race.

The entry of Jeni Santos was the judges' choice and was awarded 1st place. Amazingly, her entry did not win during the club competition, but was selected by the Board of Directors to fill up the 11-20th slot (the 1st ten slots are reserved for the top 10 club winners).

Following her lead, Christian Inocencio and Arnie Aranjuez finished 7th and 9th place respectively. Rounding up the top 12 is Boboy Ringler at 11th place.

The entries of Arnie Aranjuez, Arthur Chzranowski, Caloy Zamora, Edwin Loyola (entered under FSCC) made it to the top 30 finishers.

From the 20 pictures (maximum number of entry per club) entered, 8 made it to the final cut.

Having won the PhotoCup for 6 consecutive years, Framed Shots Camera Club is not yet ready to relinquish the title and is still gunning for the unprecedented 7th win.

With the first leg completed and 9 more legs to go, Framed Shots Camera Club is currently at the number 1 spot with 90 points.

Jeni Santos
1st Place PhotoCup Competition

Christian Inocencio
7th Place PhotoCup Competition

Arnie Aranjuez
9th Place PhotoCup Competition

Boboy Ringler
11th Place PhotoCup Competition

February Winners Gallery

2009-03-09T23:02:00.014+08:00

Theme: Reminiscin - "Best of 2008"
Date: February 8, 2008

1st place - Arthur Chrzanowski

2nd place - Arnie Aranjuez

3rd place - Christian Inocencio

4th Place - Arthur Chrzanowski

5th place - Edwin Loyola

6th place - Ian Gacutan

7th place - Roselyn Roldan

8th place - Ian Gacutan

9th place - Paul Allesa

10th place - Edwin Loyola

Jun and Rina

2009-03-08T23:40:00.008+08:00

Photography brought them together....

This slideshow was brought to you by the....

Chito Cleofas Photography Team:

March 2009 Meeting

2009-02-26T11:16:00.003+08:00

2nd Floor PBSP Bldg.
Magallanes corner Real St.,
Intramuros, Manila

March 1, 2009, 1:00 PM

Regular Photo Contest:
PWC Theme: Vanishing Point
Title: "Earth to the Sky"

On-the-Spot Photo Contest:
To be revealed prior to the start of the contest.

Reminders:
1. Please bring your camera equipment and portable lighting gears.
2. Please update your membership dues.

Note:
Those who wish to observe our camera club activities, please coordinate with Mr. Rellie Lopez, Membership Committee Chairman, before proceeding to our meeting. You may reach him at 09164583382

2009 General Assembly

2009-02-22T00:01:00.000+08:00

by Arnie Aranjuez

The first meeting for this year was held last February 8, 2009 at the PBSP building in Intramuros, Manila.

Just like previous general assembly meetings, the new set of officers were formally introduced to the members. For the year 2009, the club Board of Directors is composed of the following:

Chairwoman: Lea Ricolcol
Vice-Chairman: Arnie Aranjuez
Secretary: Roselyn Roldan
Treasurer: Arnold Perez
Membership Committee Head: Rellie Lopez
Contest Committee Head: Caloy Zamora
PRO: Michelle Barretto

Chairwoman Lea proceeded by presenting to the club, the plans, goals and direction for 2009.

A good number of existing members were present and renewed their membership. Almost half of the people present during the meeting were applicants for probationary membership and/or observers.

The judging for the PWC Theme: Best of 2008 was held the results are the following:

1st ARTHUR CHRZANOWSKI
2nd ARNIE ARANJUEZ
3rd CHRISTIAN INOCENCIO
4th ARTHUR CHRZANOWSKI
5th EDWIN LOYOLA
6th IAN GACUTAN
7th ROSELYN ROLDAN
8th IAN GACUTAN
9th PAUL ALLESA
10th EDWIN LOYOLA

Food and drinks were plenty during the meeting courtesy of the different birthday celebrants and photo contest winners.

Six Clicks for a Camera Club in Focus!

2009-02-20T10:39:00.006+08:00

Written by Noel Amata for Manila Bulettin's Picture Perfect published last Feb. 17, 2009

Winning the "Camera Club of the Year" Award is an accomplishment. Winning it twice in a row is incredible. Winning it thrice is already a record. And winning it for six consecutive years is a very rare occurrence that only Framed Shots Camera Club had achieved so far.

During the Photographer's Night of the Photoworld – Asia 2009 held last January 30, 2009 at the Asian Institute of Management, Framed Shots Camera Club was awarded the "Camera Club of the Year" for 2008. It was the 6th time the club had won such award. It was a double celebration for the club, for Chito Cleofas also won the"Photographer of the Year" Award for the second time. Aside from Chito Cleofas, there were two other members of the club who made it to the top ten. Edwin Loyola was awarded 4th place, while Carlo Zamora got 10th place.

The club has started dominating the Photo Cup of the Philippine Photographer's Foundation (FPPF) in 2003 or after nine (9) years of its existence, when it won its first "Camera Club of the Year Award". It was also Irma Santos, the Club President during that year, who won the "Photographer of the Year Award". It was duplicated the following year for the club again won both the "Camera Club of the Year Award" and the "Photographer of the Year Award". It was the famous and multi-awarded Edwin Loyola, who garnered such award. It was again repeated in 2005, this time it was the turn of the highly acclaimed Chito Cleofas to be awarded the top photographer trophy. It was a dominating year for the club, for five (5) of the top ten photographers came from Framed Shots Camera Club.

The fourth "Camera Club of the Year Award" was again won by the club the following year. Although the "Photographer of the Year Award" did not came from its ranks, it was still a double celebration for the club, because Carlo Zamora, a new member, got the "Rookie of the Year Award".

In 2007, the club has established another record for winning the "Camera Club of the Year Award" for five (5) consecutive years. This time the club missed the "Photographer of the Year Award" for Chito Cleofas has settled for 2nd place.

The Photo Cup is a year-long photo competition being conducted by the Philippine Photographers Foundation (FPPF) among its affiliated club members. There is a theme assigned every month and every camera club has to submit a maximum of twenty (20) entries. Top ten entries are selected as winners. The top ten winners earned corresponding points for both the photographer and the camera club. At the end of the year, the Photographer and the Camera Club that accumulated the highest number of points are awarded as "Photographer of the Year" and "Camera Club of the Year", respectively. Trophies are also given to photographers and camera club who made it to the top ten. The "Rookie of the Year" Award is also given to the new photographer who accumulated the highest number of points.

Brief History:

The club was established in October 16, 1994 by the first batch of graduates of Basic Photography Workshop conducted by the Federation of Philippine Photographer's Foundation (FPPF) held in Fort Santiago. Since it was founded in Fort Santiago, the club coined its name from the initials F.S. to become Framed Shots Camera Club.

Like any other camera club, it had experienced birth pains, a lot of ups and downs, trials and even in some point, it's near extinction. It started with forty-six (46) members, until its numbers dwindled with only twelve regular members constantly attending the meeting. Due to the dedication and perseverance of its members, the club has outlived those challenges. It was also through the guidance of the Chito Cleofas and Noel Amata, the two (2) remaining founders of the club that contributed to hurdle those challenges.

Staying Power:

Being in existence for fourteen (14) years is already a remarkable feat. Winning the "Camera Club of the Year" for six consecutive years and other awards makes it more remarkable and different. The club has tremendously grown as a group for the last fourteen years. From an obscure camera club struggling for recognition, today, Framed Shots Camera Club is now one of the most popular camera club affiliated with FPPF. Individually, the members have shown remarkable growth with the club. Most of them joined the club with photography only as a hobby. But now, photography for them is another source of income, another career. Some even choose photography as their profession. A lot of Framed Shots members have also earned recognition individually as a photographer. They won photo competitions both local and international. Two members of the club (Arnie Aranjuez and Edwin Loyola) have even traveled abroad for winning a photo contest. There are members of the club who have already carved their names in photography for winning a lot of photo contest. Edwin Loyola and Chito Cleofas are the names to reckon with when we talked about photo competitions.

Right now, the club is composed of fifty (50) plus members who are composed of doctors, teachers, lawyer, bankers, businessmen, architect, interior designer, corporate executives, graphic artists, musician, IT professionals, priest, and etc. Although, they came from different age bracket, gender, sexual preferences, social classes, professional background, they are brought together and binded by one thing – their love for photography.

What is the secret of Framed Shots Camera Club for achieving all these things? …for it's staying power? Why do a lot of photographers want to join the club?

Actually, the club has no secret whatsoever. Maybe it's just because of the following: sharing and support; having fun; and the camaraderie.

In Framed Shots Camera Club it is a common attitude to share one's skills, knowledge and wisdom in photography. It has full of talented members who willingly share their talents, skills and experiences to new members who joined the club to learn and grow as a photographer. They also give support, motivation and inspiration to new members to excel and achieve their highest potential in photography. Sharing is not limited only to intangible things like skills and talents, but also to some extent one's equipment, like camera, lens, flash, etc. It is in giving that we share, it is in sharing that we learn, and it is in learning that we achieved a lot of things.

The club has plenty of activities every year. The monthly meetings wherein the members compete with each other for the monthly photo contest; gatherings, out-of-town activities; and travel to honed their talents and skills in photography. But whatever they do, they always do it with fun. It is much easier to learn if one is having fun.

Some said that it is easy to locate Framed Shots Camera Club in a certain photo event or gathering. If you happen to see one member, you have already located the whole club. It is for the simple reason that FS members always go in group like a school of fish. It is a manifestation of how intense the relationships and bonding of the members of the club are - the camaraderie and friendship developed by photography and the club activities.

Aside from photography, some members join the club to have an avenue to express themselves as a person. There are those who join to be themselves to show their true colors without fear or worrying they will be judged or disrespected. For them Framed Shots Camera Club is not just a camera club…… it is also their home… their Family!

The awarding ceremony during Photoworld - Asia Photographer's Night with FPPF Chairwoman Eduviges Huang, Speaker Hanson Fong, FPPF Board Member Dr. Amado Castro and Photoworld-Asia 2009 Chairwoman Rina Falcis

Photographer of the Year Awardees Edwin Loyola, Chito Cleofas and Caloy Zamora

Framed Shots Camera Club 2009

THE GIFTS SERIES 6: Edwin Loyola Solo Exhibit

2008-12-07T00:01:00.000+08:00

Multi-awarded photographer EDWIN LOYOLA is hailed as the "Dark Artist" for his penchant for dark tones. A veteran at staging exhibitions, Loyola is self-taught and embodies what passion for the craft involves --- by relying on instincts to create a work of art. The range and dimension to which he expresses his creativity is evident in his portfolio, where one will find a spectrum of ordinary elements turned into extra-ordinary images. Loyola is a proponent and a staunch advocate of giving back what God has provided, using his talents to create art, whose main beneficiaries are the charities he supports.

Of Frogs, Frodo and Photography

2008-10-30T17:23:00.004+08:00

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Once upon a time or just last Saturday, October 18, 2008 to be exact, the 2^nd Canon PhotoMarathon Asia jousted off at the MMLDC Compound in Antipolo City. In this on-the-spot photo contest, photographers are given a set of 3 theme assignments, each theme to be completed within the allotted time frame only. More than 2,000 registered participants were raring to battle it out to capture the best photograph, thus began the photo challenge. When the smoke and dust cleared, our very own Arnie Aranjuez emerged as the 2^nd Grand Prize Winner. He even bested some photographers who will do everything, short of kissing a frog just to find that elusive prince of a win.

For Arnie’s valiant effort, he wins a free photo clinic with professional photographer Triston Yeo to the land of Frodo, which is New Zealand (if you’ve been living under a rock, this is where they filmed J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings). He, along with 1^st Grand Prize winner Chi Busque will have the enviable fairytale opportunity to photograph the natural beauty of South Island, experience the Southern Alps at Mt. Cook, the country’s highest peak and be wowed by the Fox Glacier, the longest of the awe-inspiring West Coast glaciers.

Inspired as he was, he shot his winning entry for the first theme, Nature’s Wonder. With a 50mm macro lens mounted on his Canon EOS 30D set on Manual, an exposure of 1/125 at f/10 and an ISO setting of 400, he shot this simple yet beautiful image just across the building where the registration, briefing and downloading of photos was conducted. This only shows that we can find beauty anywhere; we just have to look for it to see it.

Framed Shots Camera Club members who also competed in this challenge include Chito Cleofas, Nick Olayao, Kenneth Si, Rose Razon, Alex Regaspi, Joseph Leña and last year’s winner and one of the club’s newest members, Joel Garcia.

For Arnie, winning the 2^nd Canon PhotoMarathon Asia is not equivalent to a “happily ever after” ending but a “once upon a time” start of a really good story.

THE GIFTS SERIES 5: Borj Meneses Solo Exhibit

2008-10-01T00:01:00.000+08:00

DENNIS BORJA MENESES is indeed a disciple of the craft. Pushing himself to learn the technical aspect of photography, Meneses is a proficient glamour, fashion, portrait and conceptual artist. But more than that, he weaves special images that aim to reflect social relevance and make a statement, while sometimes infusing his artistry with graphic designs. Meneses is a believer of the freedom of expression and original ideas, saying that art may be imitated but it should never limit one to strive and create better photos.

My Hero

2008-09-02T16:58:00.006+08:00

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Everyone needs a hero. Someone you can look up to and emulate. Someone who inspires you to be better. You’re thinking about someone like the Batman, right? Well, yeah he can qualify as long as he inspires you.

Seriously, I do have my heroes in photography. There’s my dad, Galen Rowell, David Muench, Art Wolfe, Frans Lanting, George Tapan, Bien Bautista, Hans Nelemann, Jim Hanson, John Chua, Dean Collins, Monte Zucker and most recently, Joe McNally.

From my dad I learned the value of documenting the family especially when I see our old pictures as we were growing up. He recorded moments in our life that we can all go back to just by looking at them.

For travel photography, I have George Tapan and Bien Bautista to look up to. Looking at Tapan’s pictures in Mabuhay magazine made me want to travel to those places and shoot them. On the other hand, I admired Bautista’s sense of design in a photograph.

I wanted to be a great advertising photographer like Jim Hansen and John Chua. Hansen enjoys his work immensely but takes his job of image making very seriously. From him I learned the importance of texture in food shots. Chua is a former boss from whom I learned that you are only as good as your last photograph so always try and do your best. He demanded perfection and this made him one of the most sought after advertising photographers in the industry.

Making me aspire to be a great portrait photographer are Dean Collins, Monte Zucker and Joe McNally whose styles vastly differ from each other yet are distinctly their own.

And lastly, I’ve always dreamt of following the footsteps of nature photographers Galen Rowell, David Muench, Art Wolfe and Frans Lanting. A lot of heroes I must admit, but they all shaped me to be the photographer that I am today.

One thing I noticed in them is they all have a hunger. A hunger to capture that one shot that no one did before. A hunger to come up with the best shot possible. A hunger to be a better photographer tomorrow than they were yesterday.

The late Galen Rowell couldn’t have said it better in an article I’ve read in Outdoor Photographer way back in April 1994. In it he talked about an important trait that successful photographers have, “the size of their rats”. The phrase was coined by British mountain climbers to account for why some of them became more successful than others. “The size of the rat refers to the voracious creature gnawing at a person’s stomach from the inside that drives them to leave the comforts and security of their civilized life to challenge themselves in the natural world. Without a big rat, a person stays at home with the family and is content to be a shopkeeper.”

Rowell further writes that the British Antarctic explorer Apsley Cherry-Gerrard also describes the same factor in the last paragraph of his book, The Worst Journal In The World. Written in 1910 after a trip to visit an Emperor Penguin colony in the dead of winter in minus-70 degree F temperatures. Oh, and yes, done in total darkness. He wrote: “The desire…for it’s own sake is the one which really counts…Some will tell you that you are mad, and nearly all will say, ‘What is the use?’ for we are a nation of shopkeepers, and no shopkeeper will look at a research which does not promise a financial return within the year. And so, you will sledge nearly alone, but those with whom you sledge will not be shopkeepers: this is worth a great deal. If you march your Winters Journeys you will have your reward, so long as all you want is a penguin’s egg.”

Like that Emperor Penguin’s egg, great photography is the result of the photographer’s personal commitment and that personal commitment is the size of his rat.

I’d like to end this article with a chorus from the Foo Fighters’ song My Hero: “There goes my hero, watch him as he goes. There goes my hero, he’s ordinary.”

Heroes are also ordinary people doing extra-ordinary things. Who are your heroes?

A Maranao Epic in Classical Dance

2008-08-16T21:18:00.004+08:00

By Raneil Antonio Ibay

Last May 13, 2008, a group of FPPF photographers headed by Chairperson Eduviges Y. Huang and Project Director Lito Beltran were invited by the Phil. Ballet Theater to photograph the dress rehearsal of PBT’s adaptation of “Darangen ni Bantugen” at the CCP Main Theater. “Darangen ni Bantugen” is a Maranao epic set in classical dance with live music by the Philippine Baranggay Folk Dance Troupe and world music pre-recorded and composed by Jesse Lucas. Local tribal instruments like the kulintang, dabakan and diw-diw-as were used along with percussions to create ethnic rhythms that the performers danced to.

Excellent stage lighting by Jonjon Villaruel Jr. effectively portrayed every cast member with a play of colors for moods and story shifts while the minimalist and modern looking set was designed by National Artist for Theater Design Salvador Bernal.

Gener Caringal masterfully choreographed the dances and assisted by Ronilo Jaynario. They used a lot of props for the dances often associated with the South like the kris, fans and malongs.

The lead role was played by Jared Tan as Prince Bantugen and supporting him are Katherine Trofeo as Princess Datimbang, Abigail Tan as Diwata and Joan Ayap as the Bird. Anatoly Panasyukov, PBT’s ballet master gets to plays a cameo role as the Angel of Death. Marvin Arizo plays the cross-dressing Magali and completing the cast is Peter San Juan as Mabaning.

It was a great experience to photograph this Maranao epic dance presentation as you are not always allowed to shoot in these kinds of performances, especially at the CCP.

With cameras mounted on tripods, we clicked away as the performance unfolded before us, appreciating the dancers’ graceful movements as we try to capture them.

The Gifts Series 4: JP Sarmenta / One Man Show

2008-08-07T19:47:00.003+08:00

"I am a restless soul, painting the world with its light and shadow...."

There is a surprise waiting for anyone willing to see the world in monochrome. In draining the colour of my photographs, I have worked, fashioned, shaped and infused them with a new life. Everything comes in grades and shades of darkness and light - I play with their constant struggle and simply let them define who I am.

Photography is my ultimate form of self-expression and art. It allows me to unleash my emotions, let them loose. My art and heart flow together. The oceans of sorrow and loneliness raging deep within that define my existence right now, I can only explain through my images. I am finding catharsis, and yes, happiness, in all that photography entails.

I adamantly believe that art, beyond emotions, should be elevated into the realm of thought. I want my black and whites to provoke thinking, and maybe, just maybe, lead you to action, whatever that may be. Then I will have completely fulfilled this black and white universe.

"I am most free with my art in my right hand and with heart in the other."

Opening Night
6:oo pm / Wednesday
13th August 2008

Philamlife East Side Lobby
Philamlife Building
United Nations Avenue, Ermita
Manila

August 2008 Club Meeting

2008-07-30T16:25:00.004+08:00

2nd Floor PBSP Bldg.
Magallanes corner Real St.,
Intramuros, Manila

August 3, 2008, 1:00 PM

Contest:
PWC Theme: "Rain"

On-the-Spot Photo Contest:
"Glamour Photography"
Featuring 2 female models from Ms. Bikini Philippines and 1 male model from Slimmers World's Great Bodies

Reminders:
1. Please bring your camera equipment and portable lighting gears.
2. You may also bring your own props for the OTS.
3. Please update your membership dues.

2008-07-28T10:42:00.005+08:00

Waiting for Magic
By Raneil Antonio Ibay

“Isa’t kalahating araw na naghihintay ang traffic, isa’t kalahating oras na naghihintay ng magic (One and a half days of waiting for the traffic to move, one and a half hours of waiting for something magical to happen)”. So goes a line in Sandwich’s song “Jetlag”.

This is usually the case with us photographers. Waiting for the magic hour, waiting for that magic moment, waiting for something magical to happen. Always waiting.

Nothing wrong there as most of these times we are rewarded with some of our most fantastic images to put in our portfolios.

But sometimes we need to create that magic moment, to look for that shot. We can’t always wait for the “magic hour” or for the rain to stop before we start shooting. We need to take an active stand if we are going to be lucky to nail that “magical” shot. We all create our luck. The more we go out there and shoot, the more “lucky” we get. The more we practice, the “luckier” we get.

Practice. Now that’s another word I often encounter. Why do you think doctors and lawyers call their work “practice”? And for that matter, why do you think they get paid an awful amount of money for “practicing” on us? Maybe that’s just it, they practice a lot. They go out there and just do it and it makes them better doctors and lawyers.

Michael Jordan (do the kids out there know who he is?) or (let’s make this more relevant to these times) Kobe Bryant didn’t become an excellent basketball player by sitting on his behind waiting for his fairy godmother to bestow some magic upon him. He had to work. Really work hard and sweat it out on the court shooting hoops, working on his moves, learning more skills to be where he is now. No amount of hocus pocus or mumbo jumbo can replace plain hard work.

I guess that for something magical to happen in our photography, we first you have to master our craft and learn new tricks, second is to go out there and practice a lot and then while taking a breather, go practice some more.

THE GIFTS SERIES 3: Med Ferrer One Man Show

2008-07-04T09:37:00.002+08:00

“I am a wandering soul…

I recognize I have the fortunate opportunity to travel the world with my camera on hand.

The intention of documenting places I have visited has made my discovery of the world much more fulfilling. From landscapes to architecture, to capturing the place’s culture --- my subject is varied, the world is my palette.

Sometimes, I spot once-in-a-lifetime views of a subject I may not be able to photograph again. And I’m glad I was restless enough to stop and shoot.

Sometimes I take a photo without realizing that there is a potential masterpiece in there.

But on any angle, Mother Earth is one beautiful subject; and my work is a testament to her beauty.

See the world through my eyes…”

THE GIFTS SERIES 3: Med Ferrer / One Man Show

Opening Night:
6:00pm / Friday
4th July 2008

Philamlife East Lobby
Philamlife, United Nations Avenue
Manila

Exhibit Date:
July 4 to July 23 2008

July 2008 Club Meeting

2008-06-30T14:15:00.002+08:00

2nd Floor PBSP Bldg.
Magallanes corner Real St.
Intramuros, Manila

July 06, 2008, 1:00 PM

Contests:
PWC Theme - "Still Life"
Side Theme - "Ilocos Road Trip"

Lecturers:
Parc Cruz
Borj Meneses

Reminder:
Please bring your notebook computer if you wish to follow the exercises/samples during the lecture.

Book Review: Photographing The Drama Of Daily Life

2008-06-26T12:07:00.004+08:00

by Raneil Antonio Ibay

First, this book is old. It was written in 1984, way behind the digital age, so most the techniques discussed here were written with the manual SLR camera in mind. But, not to discourage everyone, I think these techniques still apply for our digital cameras.

This book also shows that anyone can access the skills needed to photograph daily life. The pictures and topics range from news events to just shooting ordinary people.
It was written to involve us in what is happening in each picture. This book also tackles techniques on how to improve your reaction time and skill in taking unposed pictures relying mostly on watchfulness than on complex equipment.

Second, this book is part of a series of books called The Kodak Library Of Creative Photography, so there are more of these books with different topics.

Third and best of all, it only costs P310.00 at your local Booksale stall. Not a bad bargain for a book where you can learn a lot from.

Framed Thoughts: What kind of Photographer am I?

2008-06-23T09:56:00.005+08:00

by Rosy Villasanta-Ibay,
Photographer-in-Momentary-Rebellion

What kind of a photographer am I? What do I want to do? I find it pathetic that until now, I do not have yet that single driven vision of what I want to be as a photographer. For example, Roselyn is very clear in her intent to be a travel photographer; Edwin aims to be instantly recognized for a certain distinctive style that he’s developing; the venerable Aurelio from the Lopez clan is on his way to being another Panchito, a hotshot wedding photographer. What about me?

Over the years, I have discovered that my forte is catching, freezing life as it went at the exact moment with perfect timing. In fact, the very few awards I have garnered were all life in progress that I managed to suspend in eternity with my camera. This kind of photography leans towards photojournalism – but I do not want to be a photo journalist!

I do take decent still life photos. In fact, some of them are more than just decent since a couple or more have won minor awards also. Hmmmmm. I like my travel photos although that’s subjective since we should love our own ahahaha! Of course I am no George Tapan! As they say, marami pa kong bigas na kakainin before I can even get close to what he can do in travel photography. E pano ‘yan, I’m on a no-rice diet right now. Does that mean I have no future in travel photography? tsk tsk It’s getting more and more pathetic.

I like what I call “patience” photography. I like waiting for the most impressive lightning to strike the sky; I can stay virtually motionless and not breathing waiting for that pretty bird to fly; when taking portraits I prefer clicking the shutter repeatedly until I have caught that enchantingly natural smile.

I am an analyst by profession but the irony is, I am having a real hard time evaluating my own photographer self. In the industry that I am in my day job, no matter how big the problem is and how different these are from one another, there is always a formula you can go back to. But humans are way too complex - their thoughts like quicksilver, their emotion fleeting, So that’s already declaring that I am a character ahahaha!

But I guess that’s it! That’s my common denominator – emotion! No matter which aspect of photography, whether candid or set-up, I always want to infuse emotion or something equivalent that would give my photograph its own unique character. It could be a shaft of light lending that uninteresting box of posporo a shroud of mystery or a play of shadows rendering the azucena petals more fragile than usual.

There always has to be a story and behind each play of emotion, every single move, every breath on this earth, is a continuing saga.

Now I’ve lost steam. Tiredness has caught up with me and I don’t have the energy anymore to finish this blog and make a digestible conclusion.

So what kind of a photographer am I? I don’t know. All I know is I like taking photos that look astoundingly beautiful to my eyes. I guess I am not driven to do anything profound with my photography because simply, this is my refuge, my sanctuary. In short, no pressure on this one please.