Penguins Perfect Photos

BLOG CLOSING DOWN

2006-08-03T19:30:00.000+08:00

I'm closing down this photoblog and moving to a new location for several reasons which I shall not bore you with.

However I will still continue to take photographs and post them online.

You can find me at my new blog called In His Footsteps.

Come visit :)

My Sanctuary

2006-07-28T20:44:00.000+08:00

Purposely titled this piece My Sanctuary because very often it is in the toilet that I get my quietest undisturbed moments. Not to mention my moments of brillance.

Angkor Wat V

2006-07-28T20:31:00.000+08:00

Other pictures

Convergence

2006-07-25T17:49:00.000+08:00

The Right Touch

2006-07-23T22:49:00.000+08:00

The mellow call of the cello has always fascinated me.

in the sanctuary of GOD

2006-07-18T23:40:00.000+08:00

I wanted to try something like what Bittergirls does. But of course I failed.

Nevermind. Still posting the shot anyway.

Simply Succulent

2006-07-15T23:27:00.000+08:00

Portraits of Yesterday III

2006-07-09T18:08:00.000+08:00

Portraits of Yesterday II

2006-07-09T18:05:00.000+08:00

Portraits of Yesterday

2006-07-09T01:15:00.000+08:00

Art is both love and friendship and understanding: the desire to give. It is not charity, which is the giving of things. It is more than kindness, which is the giving of self. It is both the taking and giving of beauty, the turning out to the light of the inner folds of the awareness of the spirit. It is a recreation on another plane of the realities of the world; the tragic and wonderful realities of earth and men, and of all the interrelations of these.

- Ansel Adams

Experimental Lomo II

2006-07-03T22:58:00.000+08:00

Experimental Lomo I

2006-07-03T22:53:00.000+08:00

Experimenting with the lomo effect in Photoshop

A Space Odyssey

2006-05-28T16:35:00.000+08:00

Rainbow Connection

2006-05-21T17:34:00.000+08:00

Taking a bow

2006-05-18T17:28:00.000+08:00

Speedometer

2006-05-16T21:25:00.000+08:00

Wheelock Place

2006-05-13T15:09:00.000+08:00

I don't visit town too often but when I do go there, Wheelock Place is one of my favourite hangouts. I just like the feel of the place, the eateries located within, Marks & Spencers and not to mention BORDERS!

This picture was taken some years back but I dug it out and did some editing to it. My inspiration came from Final Fantasy VII Advent Children which I had recently seen. Just suddenly felt like doing something futuristic-looking and the Wheelock glass spire was the best thing I could find at this moment.

5:30 am

2006-05-12T12:31:00.000+08:00

I'm hoping this picture will give a sense of hmm...desolation? It's 5:30 am at the airport and there aren't many people walking around. Usually this is the still before the buzz begins again. Everything's so quiet and slow at this time.

The reflection of the lights on the wall hopefully gives viewers the feeling that the place is very large but desolate because there's no one walking around. I chose to give the pic a tinge of green to add to that effect. The vignetting at the corners is to draw focus to the main subject.

Let me know if you feel the same about this pic? Comments welcomed.

Branching Out

2006-05-10T21:21:00.000+08:00

By air and sea

2006-05-10T08:47:00.000+08:00

Where's Mummy?

2006-05-08T17:51:00.000+08:00

Spotlights

2006-05-07T13:47:00.000+08:00

Trolleys in line

2006-05-05T14:17:00.000+08:00

Anselm once more

2006-05-04T10:47:00.000+08:00

Car Reflection

2006-04-25T19:55:00.000+08:00

I've always fancied this being an advertisement shot for car waxing service.

Honeycomb Lights

2006-04-22T22:02:00.000+08:00

This was taken at the IMM food court. I was intrigued at the patterns of the lights and how they added texture and body to the otherwise bland foodcourt ceiling. For some weird reason, I think of bees when I see this design.

Cambodian Sunset

2006-04-18T23:10:00.000+08:00

I've finally gotten round to posting my Cambodia pictures. They were taken with my mum's Panasonic Lumix. I didn't bring my 350D for this trip. But the photos turned out just as great :)

Well they're mostly pictures of Angkor Wat, the ancient city of temples built around the 12th century. The Angkor Wat compound covers an area of 1,500 by 1,300m and is surrounded by a vast manmade moat 180 m wide.

I was mesmerised by this ancient architecture. Not only was its magnitude and scale impressive, the almost obsessive attention paid to details was equally jaw-dropping. Every single inch of every single stone wall was covered with intricate carvings bearing Hindu motifs. It was sheer opulence splashed on display.

As I walked through the compound, I was magically transported back to the mystical era of elephant and kings. I could almost hear the giggling of olived-skinned ladies padding gracefully through the labyrinth corridors, barefooted, carrying their baskets of fruits.

Other pictures

Strength

2006-04-18T23:08:00.000+08:00

Other pictures

The Aspara

2006-04-18T23:06:00.000+08:00

Other pictures

Devotee

2006-04-18T23:05:00.000+08:00

Other pictures

Angkor Wat IV

2006-04-18T23:02:00.000+08:00

Other pictures

Angkor Wat III

2006-04-18T23:00:00.000+08:00

Other pictures

Angkor Wat II

2006-04-18T22:57:00.000+08:00

Other pictures

Angkor Wat I

2006-04-18T22:54:00.000+08:00

Other pictures

Angkor Thom

2006-04-18T22:48:00.000+08:00

Other pictures

Doting Parents

2006-04-17T19:45:00.000+08:00

Congratulations to my dear friends on their baby's baptism

Love Cambodia 2006

2006-03-19T22:38:00.000+08:00

Photos from Love Cambodia 2006

For this entry I'll not post any of my photos. Instead please take a look at my brother's photos which he took when we were in Cambodia last week.

It was a church medical mission to 4 poor villages. We saw more than 1000 patients and reached out to more than 500 children.

It was humbling experience.

Vietnam - Mui Ne Beach Sunrise II

2006-03-05T17:11:00.000+08:00

Vietnam - Mui Ne Beach Sunrise

2006-03-05T17:10:00.000+08:00

Vietnam - Mui Ne Sand Dunes IV

2006-03-05T17:09:00.000+08:00

Vietnam - Mui Ne Sand Dunes III

2006-03-05T17:08:00.000+08:00

Vietnam - Mui Ne Sand Dunes II

2006-03-05T17:07:00.001+08:00

Vietnam - Mui Ne Sand Dunes

2006-03-05T17:05:00.000+08:00

Vietnam - Mui Ne Coast

2006-03-05T17:04:00.000+08:00

Vietnam - Mui Ne Sea

2006-03-05T17:02:00.000+08:00

Vietnam - Mui Ne Paddy Fields

2006-03-05T16:58:00.000+08:00

Vietnam - Notre Dame Cathedral (Saigon)

2006-03-05T16:34:00.000+08:00

Taking a Peek

2006-02-11T16:12:00.000+08:00

The Garden Guardian

2006-02-09T17:38:00.000+08:00

Organic - Inorganic

2006-02-08T17:14:00.000+08:00

"He who works with his hands is a laborer.
He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman.
He who works with his hands, his head, and his heart is an artist."

Photography can fall into all 3 categories. Although I have a tendency to think the last category is true mastery and therefore the best, I try to hold back this perception. There is a function and place for everything - no one is greater than the other.

But my heart cries out to be the artist.

Talent

2006-02-07T20:08:00.000+08:00

I've always thought that artists have a real special gift.

It's really not easy to take pics that connect with the viewer at an emotional level. When I started my foray into photography, I was more interested in getting postcard perfect shots. But then after a while, a feeling of "stale-ness" came over me. It's almost like looking at a beautiful face without soul.

I've been searching within for the meaning of photography. Is it just to capture a beautiful scene? I think not. I like story-telling and I guess I would like my photos to tell a story. They say a picture speaks a thousand words. Indeed a good photo does evoke a wealth of senses and may awaken any dormant memories in the viewer. It also helps the viewer make emotive connections. Thus a good picture reaches out to the heart of the viewer and connects with them at a deeper level beyond mere aesthetics.

But it's so difficult to break out of one's old mode of photo-taking, much less move away from taking cliche shots.

Photography is indeed a medium for personal growth. Before I can tell a story, I must have a story first and I must be able to see that story reflected in my surroundings. The process of developing that personal story itself is a kind of growth.

So my journey continues. Don't think I will ever "arrive" but as I grow and my photos improve, I see them as milestones of my own personal emotional development - a maturing of my being and a greater ability to see beyond myself so as to connect with others.

Photography is a vehicle through which I can achieve self-transcendence.

Playing

2006-02-06T19:51:00.000+08:00

The Next Generation

2006-02-04T22:08:00.000+08:00

This photo was taken at my grandma's house in Malaysia. This is the house my father grew up in before he got married. The couple in the old wedding photo at the top left corner are my parents. Thought it was cool to capture my brother and his lovely wife in the same pic. This juxtaposition of the old and new symbolises the ongoing cycle of life and the joy of being family.

Escalator

2006-02-03T20:17:00.000+08:00

Can't think of an appropriate title for this piece. Any suggestions?

Inner Glow

2006-02-02T21:57:00.000+08:00

There's something very magical about this flower. It has an inner glow to it. As the petals unfold, I can almost imagine it releasing its golden essence into the air and bewitching all who are near it.

Whimsical Flight

2006-02-01T20:47:00.000+08:00

Contentment

2006-01-31T15:23:00.000+08:00

Hmmm... Definitely my ideal way to spend the afternoon.

Longing for More

2006-01-30T15:18:00.000+08:00

A Trip to the Mandai Zoo

2006-01-23T20:06:00.000+08:00

Peeping tom

White Majesty

A lovers' tiff

A ferocious yawn

A respectful bond between man and beast

Cute baby pygmy hippo taking an afternoon sip

Bird watching

Bian Lian

2006-01-21T15:54:00.000+08:00

This is a Bian Lian shi fu from China. His performance at Chinatown is a key highlight in this year's CNY celebrations. The speed at which he changed face / mask was truly astounding. He holds the Guiness record for changing 3 masks within 2 seconds.

Bian Lian is an ancient art originating from Sichuan, China where the artist rapidly changes face masks many times within a short span of time.

Ascension

2006-01-18T20:06:00.000+08:00

I've always imagined heaven to be this glowing hole we ascend towards. Of course this is more like Jacob's Escalator rather than Ladder... but still it was perfect.

Model

2006-01-17T20:47:00.000+08:00

Capitol Hill

2006-01-04T22:11:00.000+08:00

Mongolian Tenement

2006-01-02T19:40:00.000+08:00

This is a tenement in UlaanBaatar. I was struck by how empty and desolate this neighbourhood was - as if it had been abandoned. No kids running on the streets or old folks hanging around for a morning chat. What happened here I wonder? Where is everyone? Who lives here? Are the coloured tyres for children? But where are they?

Winter Wonderland

2005-12-21T22:11:00.000+08:00

The mongolian wilderness was just so serene.

Port Arthur

2005-12-20T19:02:00.000+08:00

Port Arthur was historically a convict settlement site surrounded by the Tasman sea. Its only connection to the rest of Tasmania was through a narrow peninsular which was tightly guarded. Thus there was no need for prison bars at Port Arthur. The sea provided a natural barrier.

When we visited Port Arthur we were amazed at how beautiful and serene a convict settlement could be. There was the lush gentle undulating landscape, beauiful flowers, old victorian-typed houses and refreshing sea breeze - it was a pleasure to walk the large compound. Frankly, it felt more like a high-class retirement village.

This picture was taken in front of the cathedral ruins at the convict settlement.

Cousins

2005-12-19T17:41:00.000+08:00

I've always enjoyed a close relationship with my cousins and I'm thankful for that family bond we share - a blood bond that is thicker than water.

This pic was taken when we were goofing around one afternoon at home.

Cradle Mountain

2005-12-18T16:50:00.000+08:00

As someone unaccustomed to trekking, the hike around this relatively simple Dove Lake circuit turned out to be torturous for me. The view of Cradle Mountain when we reached its foot was awesome. It was so huge and formidable. I've never seen anything like this before. I was awed and humbled at the same time.

I remember trembling with fear at the awesomeness of nature and the God who made that nature.

(This photo was taken some distance away from the foot of the mountain)

Evening Glow

2005-12-17T14:23:00.000+08:00

After a strenuous game of beach volleyball, we ended the day by relaxing and enjoying the glorious evening sun

The Right Arsenal

2005-12-16T21:27:00.000+08:00

They say having the right tools wins you half the battle. This picture was taken at a wedding where the makeup artist was dolling up the bride. I found the arsenal of brushes & pens amazing.

Colours

2005-12-04T22:02:00.000+08:00

The carp is seen as a symbol of good fortune in the Chinese culture. However I took this picture not because I'm superstitious but rather I just loved the riot of colours when these carps swim together. To me it's one way of seeing the wonder of God's artistry when He created all living creatures.

Flower Girl

2005-11-17T23:37:00.000+08:00

We Belong

2005-11-15T21:43:00.000+08:00

Looking at this newly wed couple, I'm reminded once again of the special intimacy and understanding shared between 2 persons in a marriage. The blessedness of this gift. Praise God indeed.

Fountain of Love

2005-11-15T21:07:00.000+08:00

As stated in my previous entry, I gained a new sister last Saturday.
In this photo, I wanted to rely on the natural lighting of the glasses to illuminate the couple. So I switched to a slower shutter speed and turned off the flash.

The effect is surprisingly good. (IMO that is)

A Palate of Delights

2005-11-15T20:36:00.000+08:00

My brother had the privilege of marrying
a lovely young lady last Saturday.

This delightful palate of chocolates was compliments of the hotel.

The Rose

2005-10-19T21:35:00.000+08:00

The Morning Dew

2005-10-03T21:40:00.000+08:00

Solitude

2005-09-30T19:20:00.000+08:00

Indomitable Spirit

2005-09-27T20:43:00.000+08:00

Is that a cleaner?
I think he qualifies for X-treme sports or something.

Blush II

2005-09-25T16:21:00.000+08:00

Took this photo while at my grandma's home at Malaysia
Can you guess what this is?

A Simple Lamp

2005-09-24T14:51:00.000+08:00

This was a simple lamp standing in the corner
of our Banyantree villa.
Thought it looked simple and elegant.

My Retreat II

2005-09-22T21:14:00.000+08:00

Another photo of Banyan Bintan.
Don't think I need to further describe the
beauty and tranquility of the place.
A picture speaks a thousand words.

My Retreat

2005-09-21T20:16:00.000+08:00

This is my bedroom...in my dreams of course.
Took this pic during a short getaway at Banyan Bintan.

Networking II

2005-09-20T20:51:00.000+08:00

Following pfong's suggestion, I did a recrop of the photo posted yesterday.
I don't know. Is this better?
It does feel a bit more 'grounded' than the initial picture.

Networking

2005-09-19T20:21:00.000+08:00

Denny II

2005-09-19T20:03:00.000+08:00

Literally Denny II
I had fun composing this shot :)

Denny

2005-09-18T20:51:00.000+08:00

I took this shot some time back, asking camera-shy-Denny to be my model.

A Tribute

2005-09-16T21:30:00.000+08:00

报谁异临游慈
得言恐行子母
三寸迟密身手
春草迟密上中
晖心归缝衣线

This is a picture of my dad and his mother. My dad left his Malaysian kampong home at a tender age of 11 to study in Singapore. My grandparents who were simple farmers worked very hard to provide for their oldest son's needs. Now he returns to that same old kampong, and cares for his mother to make up for all those years lost. When I think of the sacrifice my grandparents went through, tears come to my eyes. This is a tribute to my grandmother and to my grandfather who has already passed on.

Hi There! New Cam?

2005-09-16T21:13:00.000+08:00

First picture I've taken of J since I got the 350D.
CP5000 would never have given me this picture.
J moves simply too fast.

Blush

2005-09-12T19:34:00.000+08:00

I was devouring a punnet of strawberries the other day when
I thought how whimsical it would be to watch a row of strawberry soldiers

Well they look more like Can-Can Girls to me now

Millenia Walk

2005-09-11T22:12:00.000+08:00

Splendour of Nature

2005-09-11T22:03:00.000+08:00

Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor

was dressed like one of these

Nothing Beats Ma’s Cooking

2005-09-11T21:41:00.000+08:00

It’s precisely such sumptuous meals that make me miss eating at home.

妈妈的厨艺叫人垂涎三尺！Thanks mum!

Youths Having Fun

2005-09-09T22:31:00.000+08:00

Aren't they just classy?
Found them at the West Coast Park MacDonalds

Our Resident Tarzan needing some help ?

He ain't heavy, he's my brother

On your Mark, Get Set, GO!!!!

My favourite pianist