MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Walking through the beautiful streets of Binondo, Manila is an adventure all on its own that often requires sharp eyes and a curious mind to discover all its wonders. Last Saturday, August 31, Purveyr and OPPO hosted a photowalk to honor and celebrate this as it brought together a group of impassioned photographers through the corners and alleys of the world’s oldest Chinatown.
The “Manila of Old & New” photowalk event had 4 Filipino professional photographers — Martin San Diego, Jilson Tiu, Rainier Gonzalez and Al Amin — mentor fifteen young photographers steadily entering the photography community and equipped them with the latest technology of the OPPO Reno smartphone to capture anything of interest in their own distinct ways.
One of adobo magazine’s photographers, Mohd Sarajan, had the opportunity to join in on the fun as he and several young talents went through sunshine and thunder storms in Binondo to immortalize stunning sceneries and turn seemingly mundane sights into awe-inspiring perspectives:
Some of the participants shared the excitement and joy they felt throughout the afternoon photowalk:
Participant #1 : Aijah Macaspac
“The mentors were very helpful but what I really liked about the event is how everyone was able to put something on the table. The mentors were there but they gave us the freedom to express our own style and showcase our talent.
Shooting the Oppo Reno was a unique experience as well. I’m very impressed with it’s features that is comparable to using a DSLR. It’s accessible, it’s efficient and it’s great for capturing spontaneous moments.”
Participant #2 : Toby Intal
“The event for me was successful. The organizers were really accommodating and was glad to answer any questions or concerns we had. It also gave us an opportunity to learn more about mobile photography with highly qualified mentors. We were given the chance to have a photowalk with these mentors around the historical streets of Binondo while being given tips on how to maximize the potential of the Oppo Reno 10x Zoom. I am looking forward to more events like this.”
Participant #3: Hannah Mae Tolentino
“The venue was perfect for the meet up. Near lrt stations and near Binondo. Comfy enough that the participants feel relaxed. It also has enough space to accommodate everyone.
The photowalk was great. Binondo is colorful and lively! As a first timer in the area, getting lost is definitely a concern. I’m thankful for the added security detail and my fellow mentees.
The phone is amazing! Very versatile! Perfect for everyday use. I especially love the wide angle lens. There’s a variety of lenses for whatever need a photographer has. The controls are also great and customizable.”
Through the event, the beautiful and unique Binondo experience was able to be celebrated and memorialized even more under the leadership of Purveyr and OPPO. They successfully provided an avenue for young and veteran Filipino photographers to learn, inspire and collaborate with one another to further strengthen and uplift the local photography community.
Photographs by Mohd Sarajan
