PHOTOfrenz Blog

by Wong Casandra

When I found out that I was shortlisted to be part of a photo expedition in Sri Lanka, I was elated. But as time passed and as the initial excitement had been comfortably absorbed, I realised that I wasn’t exactly sure of what to expect from Sri Lanka; mainly because there were so many things I had to consider:

1. The political situation and safety issues:
   I don’t like knowing that I might be treading on undiscovered landmines. Enough said.
2. First time shooting on a Canon DSLR:
   I haven’t had the opportunity to toy with a DSLR as I primarily shoot on a film SLR. And I have never used Canon before!
3. Lack of experience in travel photography:
   Pretty much a perfectionist, I was troubled by the thought that I might not shoot well due to my inexperience. Plus, I was traveling with a marvelous group of people who have had much experience, so… I was naturally even more intimidated.

So, even before the 11th of August  (the set day to fly), I was overwhelmed with my own apprehensions and insecurities. Mostly uncalled for really, because - I very soon found out after touching down - firstly, Sri Lanka is a beautiful country flourishing with culture, and secondly, that my experience should start there was a privilege which I couldn’t afford to keep questioning. “Just shoot and worry later lah!”, my close friend said to me before I left Singapore - and these wise words served as an important reference every time I found myself faltering in self-confidence.

So for the first six days, we travelled a great part of Sri Lanka; visiting the famed Minneriya National Park, relaxing at beach resorts and distributing rice to tsunami-hit places like Trincomalee, Batticoloa - a major part of the trip was also to help the needy.

1. Tail-Swatting Elephant at the Park A photo of an elephant relaxing in the heat of the afternoon in the Minneriya National Park.	2. The Cattle’s Beach Stroll We were waiting for our lunch while at a beach resort in Trincomalee. And then we spotted this strange sight.
3. Morning Shoot - Waves All of us got up very early for this and the results were clearly worth the effort.	4. Families Gathering in Anticipation Many families gathered in the Hindu Cultural Hall, Trincomalee, and anxiously waited for the arrival of the rice.
5. Woman & Child She caught my eye while everyone in the background - Batticoloa - was busy queuing for rice. She seemed a little sad, and pensive.	6. Carrying Sacks the Head Way! After collecting their share of rice, these women made their way back home carrying their sacks on their heads.

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