For the year 2025, I would be sharing more about my plans for the year ahead in my upcoming Yearly Theme 2025 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage) article. This would be my 5th year doing a Yearly Theme (since 2020) instead of the goals settings and objectives format. The first week of January 2025 would be set aside for strategic planning, administrative matters and clearing up some backlogs. 

Thank you everyone, my family, relatives, supporters and followers on my visual storytelling and content creation journey over the years. Year 2025 is also SG60, I might get my creative juices going and start a special visual storytelling project theme for SG60!

Since I didn’t head out on New Year Eve 2025 to photograph the countdown fireworks, I decided to use a fireworks photo from NDP 2024 CR2 and I Light Singapore 2024 to welcome Year 2024 and also to wish all my family, friends, supporters and followers a Happy New Year 2025! 

The post Happy New Year 2025! appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Photography

First up would be my photography sector, my regular and usual approach from both business and leisure/personal perspectives.

Photography (business)

On the business side of things for TGH Photography, Q1 got off on a not too bad start, taking into consideration the slower start in January 2024, followed by Chinese Lunar New Year festive season in February 2024. Although some deals faced some challenges and didn’t materialise, it’s an inevitable part of running and doing a business. 

With the uncertainties and challenges in the economy ahead, hopefully the momentum and consistency built up in Q1 2024 can be carried forward into the rest of the year.

Photography (leisure/personal)

I continued to enjoy my leisure/personal photography in the midst of everything juggling a business and a few big hats concurrently. Bird photography/wildlife photography was fulfilling for this particular migratory bird season in Singapore from October 2023 to March 2024. 

On my personal photography projects that I am planning to start, working on them and brining it to “life” via physical prints either in zines or photo books. Although I haven’t officially selected them, one would be on heritage sector, most likely it would be from an existing/ongoing heritage documentation project that I started some years back. Another project idea is on my travel visual storytelling, I would share more in the Travel sub-section below.

I am also exploring a photography collaboration with overseas photographer, it would really be a wonderful experience to publish a photography zine overseas with them. Let’s see how this would turn out for me, whether it comes to life. 

Travel

An area that I have been working on before the global pandemic hits, from travel photography, visual storytelling and content creation. Although it’s not taking off as I would like to, I am going to continue working on this, from my personal travel visual storytelling to my networkings. 

Travel content creation 

I read about the challenges and impacts of AI on travel content creators. These would be of great interest to me as a travel content creator being part of my portfolio of works, as well as being a technology writer. I would share more of my findings when I had more insights from my research.

Together with my travel content creation and travel visual storytelling plans for 2024, I am thinking between a travel photo book or a travel storytelling style book that is always on my dreams and plans. Which should I choose? 

Geo-politics and world economy

The geo-politics tensions across different parts of the world are a concern for world tourism and travel, let’s hope they would not escalate further hampering and derailing the world economy further. Current economic sentiments are not good even though we have been reading news on over-tourism in some countries such as Japan. 

Last but not least on my travel, it’s really time to plan a short getaway soon, it’s been years since I left Singapore for an overseas trip due to the global pandemic (last trip was in 2019 to Malaysia). 

Creative 

On the creative side of things, I am kickstarting my TGH Research and Learning Series on Artificial (AI) in 2024, continuing where I left off in 2023. I have both professional and personal interests in Generative AI from various perspectives, as a photographer/creative, a technology writer and an end consumer. AI technology is huge, I am still learning, researching and understanding the potentials and impacts.  

Through my ongoing research and learning series, I might experiment more with Generative AI on photography, videography and designs.

Heritage

Over the past decade (and still counting), I have embarked on history, heritage, culture and arts documentation via my photography and writing, the collection of photographs can be viewed here #OurSGHeritage on Flickr. 

In 2024, I am planning to bring a current personal heritage project to life, and I am also looking to get more active and involved in heritage sector, contributing through my visual storytelling and writing with organisations involved in the history, heritage, culture and arts sector. 

Moving Forward in Q2 and beyond in 2024

The uncertainties, poor economic sentiments and a slowdown in the world economy can and have already been felt on the ground level. The challenges and constraints would still be ever present, moving forward in Q2 and beyond in 2024, I would continue to work smart, be strategic and work extra hard, hopefully the momentum and consistency built up in Q1 2024 can be carried forward into the rest of the year, in the are of my photography/content creation business, amidst the uncertainties. 

Q2 2024 has just begun, time to take on the challenges ahead, moving forward in Q2 and beyond on 2024.

The post Reflecting Q1 2024 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage) appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Photography 

Photography (Business)

Running a small business is really very tough and challenging, let alone running a small size photography business in an ever-changing media/social media landscape that is already going towards video consumption over photography, coupled by smaller budgets, a shrinking pie to share in the market, filled with a pretty saturated pool on the supply side of things.

Fellow competitors in the same industry (whether photography or other industries) would not easily give up their share of their pie for you, it’s a cruel and harsh capitalist world out there. My photography business is still impacted and affected, there were many a times when it was so stressful and pressuring to run a small business.

The future of the creative industry, whether you are a photographer, videographer, artist etc etc, modern technology in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is going to make you stand up and pay close attention to them. AI can help us creatives, it can also possibly replace part of our creative work. Do check out and read my interview article, “Q&A on the impacts of AI on photography and creative industries”.   

Having contacts and networks with agencies doesn’t give you guarantees in business, sometimes there were opportunities, sometimes there weren’t. Disappointments are part and parcel of my business operations. 

Building up more contacts and networks have always been on my business plan and agenda. As I am reviewing my Year 2023, moving from Q4 2023 to Q1 2024, I am also strategising new directions and plans, that I would share a bit more without going into too much details in my Yearly Theme 2024. 

Photography (Personal) 

On my personal/leisure photography sector, I had been active in the creative, arts, history, heritage, culture, conservation and preservation sectors, enjoying the visual storytelling and writing time that gives a deep fulfilment and accomplishment. Down the road, I hope that they would also help to bring in another source of business revenue as well. 

My personal visual storytelling/photography projects were still mainly digital and social media, written, published and uploaded for the world to see, read and view. I didn’t plan any of my personal projects to bring it to life as a physical tangible showcase, in the form of a zine, book, prints or exhibition.

Travel 

International travel 

For this segment, it’s disappointing for me, I haven’t begun to explore travel again as I didn’t travel out of Singapore. The high cost of travelling and pent-up frustrations around the world have not subsided yet. Therefore, I am practicing patience even though my travel wanderlust went up a few notches higher. 

Travel Content Creation 

There were some travel content creation opportunities that didn’t materialise, coupled with zero international travel trips in Year 2023, it can come across as double disappointments. Nevertheless, I am biding my time, preparing and actively networking with travellers around the world during regular co-hosting of #TTOT Travel Talk on Twitter community chats.  

Creative (Arts and Writing)

In the creative fields of arts and writing, Year 2023 was a very interesting year of creative exploration and writing that brought me into a new dimension, style and artistic direction. Thanks to local creative artist Wei of House of VSE/Very Small Exhibition/Bring Love Everywhere with his local artists and international artists collaborations that opened up my creative world to view and approach arts and creativity in different ways to immerse, interact and connect with the audience. Check out my visual story, “Tension by House of VSE”.

Another local creative artist that I followed and supported in Year 2023 (and still doing so) was Yip Yew Chong. His “I Paint my Singapore” – Familiar scenes of home was very heartwarming, nostalgic, connecting and bringing me back in time. Yew Chong’s visual storytelling via his paintings serves as an inspiration to me, in my own heritage, history and culture visual storytelling and documentation. 

Experiencing a major cross cultural performance between Korea traditional music and Nanyin music – “The Origins Cipher: A traditional Nanyin and Korean cross-cultural musical journey” in October 2023 also opened up my eyes to the international world of traditional arts and music coming together with the elements of history, heritage, culture, conservation and preservation, combining together to show that it can be done, in such a beautiful and soothing manner. 

Heritage (History, Heritage, Culture, Conservation and Preservation)

I have always been covering the areas of history, heritage, culture, conservation and preservation through the various museums networks, festivals and events. Through my heritage networks, I managed to discover more about traditional culture, craft and performing arts that may not have get the bigger slice of publicity and support. Personally, I feel that I can contribute more, help out and work together with organisations or like-minded people, whereby I can bring my skill sets and experiences in visual storytelling, photography, social media and digital marketing to those organisations in the history, heritage, culture, conservation and preservation sectors. 

Media Relations

In the field of media relations with brands and agencies, the status quo is usually pretty good for those agencies and brands that I work closely with, some brands and agencies have been engaging for a period of time. As for the agencies that I recently engaged and worked with in the past 1-2 years, they would take a bit more time to build up the working relationship.

Personal

On a personal note and observations from a personal basis and perspective, there were a few recurring frustrating things that had been bugging me over the years. They seemed to have escalated in recent times. Here are a brief summary of them without going too deep into details and explanations:

• People don’t read
• People don’t want to understand you, they want you to understand them instead
• Passing judgement is getting more common, uncalled for at times 
• People assume things 
• Sometimes you are more on social on social media than me and you say I am very busy on social media 
• Human communications are getting worse
• Communications and friendships are strained by social media, egos and narcissism  
• Human memory is like becoming more like goldfish and they blame it on brain fog arising from the global pandemic period
• FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) is getting stronger and worse

Yearly Theme 2023 – Explore 

My Yearly Theme 2023 (Photography and Travel) was “Explore”, looking back at year 2023 in review and reflection, I did manage to explore bigger and wider, especially into the arts sector, following and supporting local artists in other creative genres, inspired and motivated by what they had embarked on, what they achieved, giving me new creative project ideas, motivations and directions for Year 2024.

I had also explored new partnerships with videographers, photographers as well even if we might be competing together in the same field. Finding partnerships would be even more crucial given the shrinking dollars and pie in the economy shared among an already saturated field. 

As for my international travel segment, I haven’t begun to explore travel again as I didn’t travel out of Singapore. It’s definitely disappointing for me no doubt. The lessons and desires would serve me well to plan my travels in Year 2024, and not just pent-up travel wanderlust frustrations since 2019 before the global pandemic period of 2020 to 2022.

Reflecting Year 2023 (Technology | Business | Personal) 

My year 2023 in reflection and review for my technology, business and personal are written and published separately on my TGH Technology and Business website. Since the two websites are operating in distinct fields, there are quite a fair bit of review and reflections written inside them too.

Final Note and Round Up

Year 2023 was not my best year, but I learned a lot. My review and reflection of Year 2023 articles that I wrote on both my websites, TGH Photography and Travel and TGH Technology and Business, may not have everything written down that took place in Year 2023, yet what I wrote down were quite a handful and lengthy to read for my readers.

To all who make the time and effort to read till the end of both articles, thank you for your support from the bottom of my heart, I truly appreciate it! 

Looking Ahead in 2024 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage)

Looking ahead in 2024 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage), I would be sharing more information and details in my Yearly Theme 2024 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage), this approach is unique and can be very different as compared to the goals and objectives approach that I learnt previously. 

Wishing all a Happy New Year 2024! Thank you for your support and encouragement! 

The post Reflecting Year 2023 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage) appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Viddsee X Dolby Laboratories Collaboration

Through Viddsee and Dolby Laboratories collaboration, Dolby will support storytellers by offering post-production support, training and workshops on using Dolby’s technologies in their films kicking off with Solitude – Viddsee’s first Dolby-enabled Original.  

Ashim Mathur, Vice President, APAC Marketing Dolby Laboratories said: “We are thrilled to work with Viddsee in showcasing the short film, Solitude in Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Dolby Vision brings the characters in Solitude to life with sharper contrast, richer details, and a remarkable color range whilst Dolby Atmos offers a premium, multidimensional audio experience that draws you into the action. Consumers can experience Solitude in Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos on Dolby-enabled mobile devices. Dolby is looking forward to working with Viddsee and its content creation community to take the industry to the next level by enhancing their storytelling with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision.” 

Ho Jia Jian, CEO and Founder of Viddsee, said: “We are proud to showcase what this collaboration with Dolby means for our storytellers. It has the potential to equip storytellers in this region with improved technical capabilities for their films, not only helping the careers of our budding filmmakers, but creating platforms and opportunities to showcase stories from the best quality possible. 

“This collaboration will help us to achieve our vision of enabling storytellers, through a tech-driven media ecosystem, with the right tools and guidance to produce impactful films which are recognised among both Singaporean and global audiences.” 

Viddsee’s first Dolby-enabled Original – Solitude 

Viddsee’s first Dolby-enabled Original – Solitude, was screened on 24th October 2023 at the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA)’s PIXEL Innovation Hub. After the screening, there was a panel discussion on how the partnership has elevated the audio-visual quality of the film.

Following the success of Solitude, Viddsee and Dolby will work together to offer up to 10 filmmakers from Viddsee’s upcoming Scene City Anthology slate over the next two years with an opportunity to produce and distribute their films in Dolby Vision and Dolby Atoms. This partnership will also provide educational opportunities for Viddsee’s creator community through workshops and masterclasses held by Dolby. 

You can visit this link to watch this short film Solitude at https://www.viddsee.com/video/solitude.  

For filmmakers and content creators 

After watching the screening of Solitude at IMDA PIXEL Innovation Hub, listening to the panel discussion on Viddsee and Dolby Laboratories partnership, I personally feel that this collaboration announcement would be great, not just for filmmakers, also for those in the content creators segment. 

As a photographer, visual storyteller and content creator myself, that is gradually adding in videos via vlogs, Instagram Reels, TikTok and short story videos into my portfolio of works, with access to Dolby technologies would help in my storytelling journeys via my content creation/video stories, whether with my Canon EOS R6 Mark II or/and Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max.

While producing videos is not my main strength, creating visual stories through my photography. writing and content creation are my key strengths, I am going to bring across to my videography and filmmaking side of things, let’s see where all these brings me.

* Information courtesy of Viddsee and Black Dot *

The post Viddsee and Dolby empowering next generation of storytellers appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Here are photographers (experts in their respective fields) that would be sharing on that day:

• Steven Sung – Street and Lifestyle Photography
• Leong Su Shan – Street Fashion Photography
• Raymond Phang – Conceptual Portrait and Creative Lighting
• Carlos Monforte – Chasing the Storm

For aspiring content creators, there will be a session on how to create captivating video content with one of Singapore’s top YouTuber and Tiktoker, Ming @mingweirocks, who has over 9.3 million subscribers on YouTube and 22.5 million followers on TikTok.

Whether you are a photography enthusiast or wanting to know more about photography, Canon Creators Fiesta 2023 is perfect for you to come on down, find out and discover more about Canon, its wide range of cameras and lenses. Don’t forget to bring your camera, join in and have fun!

You can get complimentary camera sensor cleaning from Canon’s skilled technicians, for Canon cameras only. Limited slots on a first come first serve basis.  

Plus, you stand a chance to win up to $2,000 worth of lucky draw prizes while checking out some of the latest gears from Canon Singapore and their partners. 

Canon Creators Fiesta 2023 Programme Schedule 

• 0900hrs – 0915hrs: Registration
• 0915hrs – 0930hrs: Welcome Address by Canon Singapore
• 0930hrs – 1000hrs: EOS Masters & EOS Xplorers Appointment Ceremony
• 1000hrs – 1030hrs: Street and Everyday Life with Steven Sung
• 1030hrs – 1130hrs: Practical Session for Street Photography with Steven Sung, Alex Goh & Jensen Chua
• 1130hrs – 1230hrs: Lunch Break (Light Refreshment Provided)
• 1230hrs – 1330hrs: Street Fashion with Leong Su Shan
• 1330hrs – 1400hrs: Conceptual Portrait and Creative Lighting with Raymond Phang
• 1400hrs – 1500hrs: Practical Session for Conceptual Portrait with Raymond Phang
• 1500hrs – 1600hrs: Teabreak (Light Refreshment Provided)
• 1600hrs – 1700hrs: Chasing the Storm with Carlos Monforte
• 1700hrs – 1800hrs: Creating Video Content with Ming & Team

This event is open to all camera brand users! Slots are limited so sign up now! Register now at https://sg.canon/en/campaign/imagingacademy/event/creators-fiesta/detail 

* Information and picture courtesy of Canon Singapore and Gloo *

The post Canon Creators Fiesta 2023 appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Photography – Business and Content Creation 

Photography business

It has been a very tough and challenging journey running a photography business, just like running any other business. In an already intense and stressful competitive market facing a slowdown in world economy, we are facing an avalanche of new technological developments and innovations in generative AI, that is going to disrupt the photography and creatives market even further.

While some of my photography friends might not agree or would dispute my views, a stand-alone photography business might not be the way to go for running a photography business. The amount and intensity of change, adapt and adopt is going to exponentially increase.

Change of Old Guard 

Although I do take care of my photography cameras, lenses and gears, as much as possible, there will be wear and tear, along with technological improvements and changes over the years especially in the digital imaging world. All the above also coincide with new changes in my visual storytelling and content creation. 

Hello Canon EOS R6 Mark II, Goodbye Canon EOS 1D X Mark II! I have sentimental attachments to the EOS 1D series, this Canon camera model has always been an icon and part of my photography branding. Another story on this for another day.

Photography – Personal and Content Creation

The personal side of my photography gives me an avenue away from many things, not just away from the photography business side of things, a therapeutic time away from the stress and pressures.

Walking to my nearby neighbourhood areas, taking sunsets, cityscapes, nature and wildlife, with my camera and lenses, it was my personal time away from the hustles of running a small business.

Travel and Travel Related Content Creation

International Travel

There’s nothing to share here as I haven’t travelled out of Singapore since 2019. While I am not in a hurry to travel (Yes, I do have some pent-up frustrations in travel). Therefore, I think the time is now for me to get away from Singapore in Q3 2023, likely a regional trip first and hopefully a medium to long haul trip in Q4 2023. As for my travel destinations, I would keep under wraps for now.

Travel Related Content Creation

While I have been producing and creating visual storytelling articles regularly, there aren’t enough for my travel related content creation segments. Although I haven’t travelled overseas for a few years, that is not an excuse. 

An area for me to look more closely into, how and what kind of local travel stories that I would want to share about to friends and travellers visiting Singapore. This should be my “homework” before I return to travel visual storytelling and content creation when I relaunch my travel photography adventures overseas.

My photo walks haven’t officially take off as planned, time to re-ignite and start working on them again.

Plans for Q3 2023 & H2 2023

In Q1 2023, if you recall, my Yearly Theme (Photography and Travel) for 2023 is “Explore”. I feel that this year’s theme fits in nicely, I am exploring new avenues and directions in an increasingly difficult and challenging world economy and geo-political situations. 

Photography business

I never and I usually will not go into business specifics here, just like the Chinese saying, “The business field is just like a battle field”. My thoughts and views in a nutshell, we better evolve, change and adapt faster. We can’t just depend on one skill/expertise alone anymore. 

New personal project – Featuring and interviewing creatives, artists, photographers, heritage 

Earlier in this year 2023, I had an inspiration to feature and interview creatives, artists, photographers, history, heritage, preservation and culture community. Through this personal project, I hope to be able to help them with more publicity through my visual stories and writing, that’s also possibly a cross mixed media production with the artist’s artworks with my photography, as well as future business opportunities for me.

Travel related content creation, collaboration and partnerships

On top of creating more travel related content creation that I mentioned earlier, collaboration and partnerships have proved to be pretty difficult and tricky to breakthrough into. From competitors who guard their turf, time needed to establish stronger ties and limited opportunities, I have and I will continue to strive for a breakthrough. 

Last but not least

More than just my photography and travel segments, please do visit and check out my Reflecting H1 2023 & Q2 2023 (Technology, Business and Personal) on my TGH Technology and Business portal/blog.  

Although I will not be able to write down and share everything that happened or took place during Q2 2023 and H1 2023, compiling and writing them down serves as a form of diary, collection of memories and moments. Neither would I be able to share all my plans for Q3 2023 and H2 2023, just some key highlights.

Some stuff/matters are also more private and confidential that I do not want or wish to be shared on social media. 

The content, reflections, thoughts, and views might be lengthy and boring to others, even to my friends. Some are probably busy posting on social media platforms flooded with media and videos, we need to know what is happening to them, they don’t want to know what is happening to others.

Writing down my reflections, thoughts, views and upcoming plans are more than a good way of regular writing, constantly honing and improving my writing skills, this is also therapeutic in its own ways.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart, for making it to this line, reading my lengthy writing and ranting (sometimes). 

* Photos shot with Canon EOS R6 Mark II *

** A TGH Photography x Canon EOS R6 Mark II Explorer Series Production **

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How did the Zipble Bag come about?

Inspired by a group of photographers, travellers and content creators looking for a bag that could meet all their different needs and requirements, yet able to provide the right combinations of style, function and design.

@zipbleofficial . Unleash your potential with Zipble, the True Modular Backpack – Easily Customize your bag for any occasion and stand out from the crowd! Back the Project here https://modular.zipble.com/facebook #bag #techbag #modularbag #modular #travel #travelbag #photographytips #photography #travelessentials #traveltok #tiktokmademebuyit #makeitviral #fyp #zipble #kickstarter ♬ original sound – Z I P B L E

What are the key features of Zipble Bag?

The Zipble Bag is a custom-made bag that would be really perfect especially for those on the move. The key features of Zipble Bag composed of three panels whereby you have the ability and versatility to detach, modify, and configure the three panels based on your needs and requirements. 

Tech – Not just for techies, also for the daily busy user 

More than just your usual laptop bag, it’s versatile! Which is your preferred carrying style? Is it sling or carry-on? You can have the option with this Tech Panel! Being a modern techie, or the daily busy user, you would have a number of different technology accessories and peripherals that you regularly bring out can be stored inside the Tech Panel.

More information on the Tech Panel can be found here: https://zipble.com/product-features/tech-panel/ 

Snapshot – For photographers, filmmakers and content creators

Designed with the photographer in mind, great for travellers too! This has a bottom cushion to protect your camera and lenses against knocks and scratches. The camera dividers protecting and holding your camera and lenses have more grip, thanks to the Velcro strips on each side.

If you have quite a number of photography accessories to carry, don’t worry there is plenty of room, four packets in the front panel and three compartments in the back.

This Snapshot panel has three accessible compartments on the sides that allows you to have easy access. There is an expanding pocket, a retractable kitchen pocket, and a huge mouth opening pocket, protecting a photographer’s expensive equipment while on the move. 

More information on the Snapshot panel can be found here: https://zipble.com/product-features/snapshot-panel/ 

Expand – When you need to expand to carry more 

The extension bag that is expandable with additional compartments that allows you to bring other equipment, gadgets, peripherals, devices and any other related items. 

More information on the Expand Panel can be found here: https://zipble.com/product-features/expand-panel/# 

Is the Zipble Bag truly multi-functional, multi-purpose backpack for me? Where can I purchase the Zipble Bag?

As a commercial photographer, that also does travel photography, visual storytelling and video (YouTube and TikTok) content creation, a technology writer and content creator, I have quite a few different types of bags at home. Sometimes, I wish that there is one all-in-one solution backpack that is modular, that can be detached and configured to my requirements and needs. This Zipble Bag looks to fit my requirements and needs for my different business and creative segments.

Whether you are a photographer, traveller, videographer, content creator, or new age work from anywhere and constantly on the move workforce, do check out this multi-functional and multi-purpose Zipble Backpack! Visit Zipble Bag website for more information and updates!

Do you wish to be the first mover for this multi-functional and multi-purpose Zipble backpack?  You can order your very own Zipble Bag here!

Follow Zipble on their website and social media channels 

For more information and updates on Zipble, follow them below on the website and social media channels:

• Website: https://zipble.com/ 
• Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/zipbleofficial/ 
• Faebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/zipbleofficial 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zipbleofficial/ 
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zipbleofficial 
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ZipbleOfficial 

* Information and photos courtesy of Zipble *

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“The Legendary Series”

The Legendary Series, as this limited offer is called, is available only to 999 members worldwide. They features a variety of money-saving features and surprises designed to delight today’s international traveller. For those who show support for Really Cool Airlines at this early stage, members are rewarded not only by tangible benefits, they can also enjoy the excitement of seeing Really Cool Airlines grow and expand its network in coming years.

The estimated value of the benefits in The Legendary Series is USD$15,000. If you choose to be an early supporter, again only 999 worldwide, you will pay only USD$6,000 for a block of benefits that includes:

• 2 free Super Cool seats round trip to any destination Really Cool Airline flies, with no expiration date (Super Cool seats are the Airline’s equivalent of business class seats) 
• 2 vouchers for 50% off when buying return Super Cool seats, available for any destination on the network, a benefit that is awarded every year for life 
• 2 free upgrades to Super Cool seats when buying return Cool Seats (economy) to any destination in the network, another benefit that is awarded every year for life 
• And “Surprise Drops” from partners, which will include free hotel rooms, airport transfers and free car rentals 

(Terms and conditions apply) 

While this limited-time Legendary Series has an attention-getting suite of cost-saving benefits, CEO Patee stresses that the overall Digital Membership Program will meet the needs of all Really Cool Airline customers, and delight them all, no matter when they join. CEO Patee also adds that as Really Cool Airline continues to grow, the benefits and capabilities offered by the ReallyCool US Program will continue to expand.

Really Cool Airlines CEO, Mr. Patee Sarasin says “I am incredibly excited to unveil the ReallyCool US Digital Membership program, the world’s first membership program in the airline industry. This groundbreaking initiative is a testament to our ongoing commitment to enhancing the travel experience for our customers. With only 999 exclusive Legendary Series memberships available globally, we are offering a truly unparalleled opportunity to elevate your travel lifestyle. By offering a truly unique opportunity, we are redefining the way our customers travel and ensuring they enjoy the best that the aviation industry has to offer.” 

CEO Patee also disclosed that Really Cool Airlines plans to commence flying in Q2024. The initial flight routes in Asia are likely to include Singapore, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Taiwan, with European routes added the following year.

For more information on ReallyCool US Digital Membership, please visit https://www.reallycoolus.com.

* Information and pictures courtesy of Really Cool Airlines and Full Circle PR *

The post Really Cool Airlines launches exclusive ReallyCool US Digital Membership appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

 “The Z 8 was engineered to be the always-ready partner for professionals and creators alike. Powerful, yet compact, the Z 8 provides stability during handheld shooting as well as the flexibility of a one-person operation when it comes to videos. Among the features that creators can look forward to are multiple long duration video recording options and formats, enhanced AF detection capabilities and the inclusion of the new HEIF format support for still images. The Z 8 will enable creators to fully immerse themselves in achieving their creative vision.” said John Young, General Manager of International Marketing, International Business Division of the Imaging Group, Nikon Singapore Pte. Ltd. 

Z 8 Primary Features

Agility that astounds

The Nikon Z 8 weighs approximately 910g (1), allowing for agile shooting for an extended period of time, even if you are a one-person operation with its compact and lightweight video recording system. The Z 8’s compatibility with an array of videographer accessories, including the MC-N10 Remote Grip and wireless video transmitters, and v-mount batteries, significantly reducing the amount of equipment needed during shoots and set-up time.

The High-Res Zoom allows one to zoom up to the angle of view equivalent to 2x of the focal length, even with a prime lens attached, during 4K UHD (30p/25p/24p) and Full HD video recording in full-frame.

The Z 8 is designed and engineered with videographers in mind, they can record up to approximately 125min in 4K UHD/60p (2) and up to approximately 90min in 8K UHD/30p (3).

Thanks to the camera’s 4-axis vertical/horizontal tilting monitor that also includes vertical display orientation, you can now enjoy nimble and comfortable shooting angles with smooth and flexible operation. Display of the i menu is also shown in the respective orientation when tilting the monitor vertically or horizontally during shooting mode. 

Professional video choice

You can now choose from a wide variety of video formats as the extension of your narratives. From 12-bit N-RAW and ProRes RAW, to 10-bit Apple ProRes 422 HQ and 8 bit-H265 SDR in-camera recording, the versatility is endless whether for a creator just starting out or for a full-fledged professional.

Create videos in high-definition 4K UHD/60p2, 50p (2), and 30p oversampled from 8K, providing the opportunity to shoot in high-definition video that can be enjoyed on a large screen. For those requiring higher frame rates, the 4K 120p is also available for greater filmmaking flexibility. Alternatively, amp it up with 8.3K/60P (in N-RAW only) or 8K UHD/30P. Accompanied by N-Log for colour grading, users can tell impressive stories in motion.

Capture busy city scenes or epic movements of wildlife with time-lapse videos in 8K HDR in-camera that are also compatible for viewing on Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG)-compatible 8K monitors via a HDMI 2.1 connection. 

Seeing is Capturing

With the Z 8 Pre-Release Capture (3) function, decisive moments are easily caught on camera. When you are using the High-Speed Frame Capture+, users can record up to 1 second before the shutter button is fully pressed, or up to 4 seconds after the button is fully pressed.

Imagine this scene of a big and crowded wedding, focussing before capturing a crowd of faces can be a challenge, especially when the bride and groom are among the group, or while tracking the couple amongst the well-wishes of family and friends. The camera’s autofocusing automatically detects 3% (4) of the human face size in the frame.

Subject detection also works in 3D-tracking, auto-area autofocus (AF), or 20 types of custom wide-area AF (12 types in video). Capture night scenes with clarity with the excellent AF detection range down to -7 EV (-9 to 19 EV in starlight view mode) [5] – allowing enhanced detection of subjects under darker conditions. 

Photographers would love this function when they can lock focus quickly and reliably as the AF identifies and tracks up to nine different kinds of subjects. Users who love capturing aviation photography will appreciate the addition of the new Airplane mode to the AF subject detection menu. Focus easily on the intended aircraft regardless of the magnification (size) as this mode provides a more stable detection, including in low-light situations or with a cluttered background. 

The new support for HLG (HEIF) [6] format also provides an option for 10-bit still images with richer tonal gradation. 

Post-editing made simple

Skin softening feature take your portraiture to another level. They auto-detects human faces and softens the skin, while keeping eyes and hair sharp. Users can apply this effect for videos, live streaming, and stills.

Portrait impression balance effect minimise your editing time that enhances portraits in-camera by adjusting the hue and brightness. The adjustment is also available via direct settings and the i menu while confirming the subjects through live view image, in addition to via the photo or video shooting menu. 

Achieve more beautiful depictions with an intuitive user interface in adjusting colour temperatures, and an enhanced auto white balance (AWB) performance that helps to reduce colour cast. 

Capture with confidence

Adding on to the robustness of this camera is Sereebo P series, a new environmental-friendly material used on the main body components, which can endure knocks and withstand temperatures as low as -10 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, the dust-and-drip resistant (7) design helps to prevent dust and liquid from entering the camera. 

Carry the Z 8 with confidence as it features a VR lock to prevent accidental damage to the image sensor when the power is turned off. Minimise the risk of dust adhering to the image sensor with dual coating used for the optical filter and image sensor, as well as a sensor shield that comes in handy when one is attaching and detaching the lens. 

Never miss out on another decisive moment with the Real-Live Viewfinder that displays subject motion in real time with no blackout (8). When capturing shots of golf swings and tennis serves, enjoy capturing a vast number of shots without worrying about shutter wear and rolling shutter distortion, thanks to the absence of a mechanical shutter. 

Obtain stable shots with a powerful Vibration Reduction (VR) that achieves an effect equivalent to a shutter speed of 6.0 stops (9) with the in-camera VR and Synchro VR. Electronic VR is also available in video recording. 

Revel in your creativity without worrying about running out of power as the MB-N12 Power Battery Pack adds approximately 1.8x more shots and recording time, while providing the same dust-and drip-resistant performance as the Z 8. Sold separately, it is equipped for cold weather operations, even at -10 degrees Celsius and allows for USB charging and power delivery. 

The Nikon Z 8 is also the first Z series model to provide two USB terminals – one for power charging/delivery and the other for data communication – enabling power delivery during communication without experiencing sudden disconnections and hence a more reliable connection on both ends. 

The Z 8; ready for action and a catalyst for creators and professionals in their pursuit of creative expressions. 

Nikon Z8 Short Hands-On Experience 

I had the opportunity to have a short hands on experience with the Nikon Z8 during their recent media launch event in Singapore with a Nikon Z8 to take photos and try out various Nikon lenses at the Z8 launch event. While it’s been quite a while since I last get to have a hands on with a Nikon camera, therefore I have to get myself familiarise again with the controls and buttons of a Nikon camera. 

As it was a short hands on experience with the Z8, I managed to photograph some different shots. Photographers (regardless of camera brands that you are using) would know about Nikon’s imaging quality, it can be seen through the works produced with the Z8 camera.  

My personal overall feel for me is the Z8 is an impressive camera that would cater for both stills photography and videography, that would suit those into content creation sectors. This camera is good enough to carve out a niche for itself within the list of camera brands operating in this segment.  

Nikon looks to be getting more into the videography segment with Z8. I didn’t manage to shoot any videos during the short hands on experience. This segment would be of great interest to many out there, see how they can develop and expand in this segment.

If I do get the opportunity to review the Nikon Z8, I would share more user experiences with this new Nikon camera. 

Availability 

If you like to know more information on the new Nikon Z 8, and other Nikon products, please visit https://www.nikon.com.sg.

Notes:

1. With battery and two memory cards but without body cap and accessory shoe cover.  
2. Supported when [Extended oversampling] in the video recording menu is [ON], image area is [FX], and frame size/frame rate is 3840×2160 60p/50p. Note that battery power consumption increases when [ON] is selected.  
3. Pre-Release Capture can be set only when shooting in High-Speed Frame Capture+, which enables continuous shooting at the frame rate of 120 fps 
4. The world’s smallest as of 10th May, 2023, among mirrorless cameras, ratio in long side of the frame, based on Nikon research. 
5. When using photo mode in single-servo AF (AF-S) with f/1.2 lens. 
6. Use HDR compatible TVs and monitors when viewing HEIF images.  
7. Thorough dust- and drip-resistance is not guaranteed in all situations or under all conditions.  
8. View may differ depending on settings, such as shutter speed. 
9. Based on CIPA Standards. When using the telephoto end of the NIKKOR Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S with NORMAL mode.  

* Information and pictures courtesy of Nikon Singapore and AKA Asia *

The post Nikon introduces Z 8 – Agile mirrorless camera for creators in videos and photos appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

TikTok

My entry into TikTok is a story on procrastination because I don’t really know how to leverage or differentiate TikTok platform and how this would fit into my social media/content creation setup. More insights can be read here on my TGH Technology and Business portal/blog article, where I wrote from a social media and digital marketing perspective.

TikTok would give me a new dimension in my visual storytelling through vertical videos format, together with YouTube. Here is my first TikTok video announcing my maiden launch on TikTok platform – TGH Photography and Travel Visual Storyteller and Explorer Series Production on TikTok, shot with the Canon EOS R50.

@genghuitan Welcome to my TGH #Photography and #Travel #visualstoryteller and #Explorer Series Production on #TikTok! I More stories, photos and short videos coming soon! Shot with #Canon #EOSR50 by @DGN Studios SG. #CreateWithCanonSG #CanonBeautyStyle #CanonSG #videography #foryou #fyp #traveller #写真撮ってもいいですか #摄影师 #wesandersoninspired #TikTokSG #Singapore ♬ original sound – GengHui

TikTok is unique in its own sense, style, character and following. They are more of an entertainment platform than a social media platform, even though they are a form of social media. Therefore, hopping onto TikTok would require a new and different set of social media strategies and direction.

A new content creator + visual storytelling approach and journey 

There are always be some points in our ongoing photography and creative journey that we have to refresh and rebuild (at some junctures too) the tools of our trade, that would allow us to adapt and meet the demands of a new era of living, digital world, social media and media consumption.

From a purist photographer, diversifying out into a content creator + digital agency/studio setup (TGH Digital Studio), complementing my TGH Photography business. All these didn’t happen overnight, they took a few years, the change wasn’t easy, it’s still ongoing amidst an ever-changing media consumption, digital transformation, social media and technological (cue Generative AI) landscapes.

While photography and visual storytelling remains my core and strengths, the diversification and addition of video, vlogging and TikTok would enhance and reinforce how I want to tell my stories in both photos and videos. 

Therefore, a new camera for the new future, for the hybrid content creator and visual storyteller has come into play, a favourite iconic camera that I used to associate/brand myself will have to leave. That story would be for another time, another place, in time to come, that fellow photographers would be to relate and resonate. 

A candle light lighting up another, passing the fire and spark to start a new content creation and visual storytelling journey ahead. 

The time is now, a new era has dawned. 

* A TGH Photography x Canon EOS R6 Mark II Explorer Series Production *

The post Launch of two new journeys in Content Creation and Visual Storytelling appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.