Why use a Yearly Theme? How to Choose a Yearly Theme?

I am inspired by Fernando Gros “How to choose a Yearly Theme”, this is my 7th year writing and announcing a Yearly Theme (since 2020), an approach that I personally feel that it’s more forward looking for a new future, a new era of working, thinking and how we connect as an individual, as a collective, society and the world. It’s not that goal settings or setting resolutions are no longer popular or useful, they still have a purpose and it still works for some people or industries.

Recap of previous Yearly Themes

Before I announce my Yearly Theme 2026 for my photography, travel, creative and heritage, let me bring you back in time, looking at my previous Yearly Themes through a recap below:

• Yearly Theme 2020: Striving to Excel 
• Yearly Theme 2021: Recovery and Rejuvenation 
• Yearly Theme 2022: Onward 
• Yearly Theme 2023: Explore
• Yearly Theme 2024: Ignite
• Yearly Theme 2025: Create

Yearly Theme 2026 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage) – “Reframe”

Now, announcing my Yearly Theme 2026 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage) – “Reframe”.

Why “Reframe”?

First and foremost, my TGH Photography and Travel portal/blog is celebrating 20 years of visual storytelling in April 2026 (this website started on 10 April 2006). Secondly, my TGH Photography business is entering into its 10th year in January 2026 (photography business started in January 2017).

I chose this theme “Reframe”, something that I can relate closely to, celebrating two milestones in 2026 for my photography, visual storytelling and content creation, reflecting on my past two decades, my journeys, ups and downs, achievements, growth and development. 

Thereafter, looking ahead into future, how can I improve, change and adapt my forms of visual storytelling and content creation in a ever changing digital era of social media and AI, as well as, how can I place my visual stories collection into a new frame or a different frame, that I would like to share more with my clients, followers and supporters.  

How am I going to “Reframe” my visual storytelling in 2026?

Photography / Heritage / Creative

Be more personal and heart-warming visual stories in heritage, culture and arts

Through gaining more experiences, interactions and connections in 2025 with fellow creatives, artists, visual storytellers, and subject matter experts from other genres, I learned a lot from them through their inspirations, creative and artistic works. 

In 2026, I hope that I am able to create good opportunities for cross/interdisciplinary content creation, collaborations and possible special projects, continuing to produce more heart-warming visual stories in heritage, culture and arts.

I also feel it’s time to revisit and re-explore my personal photography further and deeper from my usual styles and approaches of my visual storytelling. That’s where “Reframe” theme comes into play, it might just open a new genre or direction for me.

Publishing 20 years of visual storytelling selected works/projects into zines 

One of my planned celebrations for my 20 years of visual storytelling is to produce different zines from my 20 years archives of visual stories and photography. It’s time to bring some of my heritage documentation projects to life, into a physical print.

Travel

At the start of this year 2026, I would not go into any travel plans or destinations that I would want to go. I would love to break the duck and finally go on overseas holiday adventures, restarting my travel writing and travel photography. 

On the local travel side of things back home in Singapore, with this “Reframe” theme, I would look at different sectors or areas of interests to share more unique and interesting travel stories in Singapore for both locals and overseas travellers visiting Singapore. 

Thank you for your support and encouragement! 

To my family, relatives, friends, followers and supporters who supported me through my visual storytelling, photography, technology writing, social media marketing, especially those that make the effort to read, not assuming thinking you know everything about me, or my business model operations, and making the effort to know more and understand, without judgement or putting me down, I sincerely thank you for your support and encouragement!

Year 2026 will have new and different levels of stress, pressure and challenges. I will adapt and “Reframe” my mind, heart and soul, change and adapt accordingly when different situations arise.

The post Yearly Theme 2026 (Photography | Travel | Creative | Heritage) appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Photography

Strategic Planning

On my strategic planning segment, I would first work on a regular article feature, reflecting and reviewing my Year 2025 for my Review Year 2025 (Photography | Travel | Content Creation | Heritage) article. 

Thereafter, I would be working on my goals and objectives for Year 2026 in my Yearly Theme approach that I have been using for the past few years, for my Yearly Theme 2026 (Photography | Travel | Content Creation | Heritage).

Photography (Business)

While I might not openly share or talk too much about my business segment for my photography, there might be changes to my business model due to personal family health matters that I would need to be more hands on, putting aside more time and attention, thus I have to balance my photography business, content creation and writing work.

Milestones in 2026

In 2026, I would be celebrating 2 major milestones.

20 years of TGH Photography & Travel portal/blog

First and foremost, my TGH Photography & Travel portal / blog established in April 2006 is marking 20 years. My first article post was published on 10 April 2006, and on 10th April 2026, that would be 20 years. 

While I haven’t decided on any major celebrations for my TGH Photography & Travel portal/blog, I am going to keep an open mind, letting ideas and inspirations pop into my mind along the way in 2026.

10th year of operating TGH Photography (Business)

My TGH Photography (Business) was registered in January 2017, that would mean 9 years of running my photography business in January 2026, marking the start of my 10th year running my photography business. 

My TGH Photography business had been through some very challenging periods when the global pandemic struck during 2020 to 2022. Post pandemic wasn’t exactly that smooth sailing with rising costs and uncertain economic conditions impacting it.

Visual Storytelling / Content Creation 

One project that I am planning to mark my TGH Photography & Travel portal/blog 20 years celebrations is to produce and publish Photo Zine Series using TinTint printing platform. Would it be a different photography zine every month? Or publishing zines from my various photography projects that I have been working on?

As for other visual storytelling / content creation projects updates, I would share updates after this month of strategic planning, consolidation and reorganisation phase. 

Administrative

January 2026 would not just be my month of strategic planning, it’s also my consolidation and reorganisation month as I wrapped up my FY2025, while also laying the groundwork for FY2026. 

First up, I would need to back up 2025 photographs that I have yet to do so, as well as clearing up space, deleting photos and videos from my cloud sharing drives. There are some key backlog articles that I would be working on in January 2026 as well.

Personal

On a personal side of things, I mentioned about health matters relating to my family in December 2025. In the year 2026, I would have to take on more time and care into this area. At this current juncture, I am not sharing more details until the time is right. 

Let’s kickstart Year 2026 on a good note!

While there are still world economic and business uncertainties, on top of my personal family matters, I just want to start Year 2026 on a good note and footing.

The post Photography / Visual Storytelling / Content Creation Themes and Plans for January 2026 appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Thank you everyone, my family, relatives, supporters and followers on my visual storytelling and content creation journey over the years. The last quarter of Year 2025 had been very stressful for me as I had to handle medical related matters in my family (and that would be ongoing for a while).

I would take the month of January 2026, to consolidate, reorganise, reflect, plan and strategise for 2026, going to reflect on my year 2025, my upcoming Photography / Visual Storytelling / Content Creation Themes and Plans for January 2026 article would give more updates on my plans and things to do, my Yearly Theme 2026, plans for celebrating two key milestones, namely 20 years of TGH Photography and Travel portal/blog (since April 2006) and my 10th year for my TGH Photography business (since January 2017). 

On the other hand, I also have my family matters to take care of in 2026 as well, as well as resolving my TGH Technology and Business portal/blog website issues.  

Since I didn’t head out on New Year Eve 2026 to photograph the countdown fireworks, I would be using an old photo, from my NDP2025 fireworks photography to welcome Year 2026, and also to wish all my family, relatives, friends, followers and supporters a Happy New Year 2026!

The post Happy New Year 2026! appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Family Health Matters

On a more personal note, the past few months have been especially challenging as I’ve been managing ongoing family health matters concerning my elderly mum. It has been a period of significant stress, and I’ll share more when the time feels right.

This isn’t meant as an excuse, but these circumstances have affected both my professional capacity and personal wellbeing, particularly amid an already difficult economic climate.

TGH Technology and Business portal/blog major updates

My TGH Technology and Business website recently encountered a major technical issue following a WordPress update, which caused the site to go offline. I’m currently working on restoring it and am also exploring the option of migrating to a new hosting provider and rebuilding the site afresh.

This was my first time applying a WordPress update that caused such a major glitch beyond my very limited technical knowledge in IT programming.  

I am searching for solutions to bring my website back online first, I am also searching to migrate away from my current website hosting services company, and starting fresh. Hopefully, I am able to migrate over safely with my data (articles) and kick off on a brand new beginning, something like “A New Hope”.

Meanwhile, I am most likely unable to publish my technology (Consumer and Enterprise) articles/media news coverage and other business articles/media news coverage till I resolve my website crash situation.

To my friends, contacts, and partners across PR agencies, brands, and the technology space (both consumer and enterprise), thank you for your patience and understanding as I work through this situation.

Photography (Business and Personal)

As I first have to prioritise family health matters situation, as well as my TGH Technology and Business website revival and “reconstruction”, I inevitably have to slow down my photography segments (both business and personal) in December 2025, maybe January 2026 as well, while I consolidate, reorganise, strategise and plan for FY2026.  

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and for your kindness and understanding regarding any slower or delayed responses — and if I seemed a little more stressed than usual when we crossed paths in recent months (even if I tried to keep it hidden).

The post Key Updates December 2025 appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

SCCC presents Healing Heritage

Healing Heritage will be held from 1st October 2025 to 22nd February 2026 at SCCC Creative Box  at Level 6, this interesting, unique and immersive exhibition invites you to visit, explore and learn how TCM has evolved over the years in Singapore, blending tradition with innovation and staying relevant in today’s modern lifestyles.

Supported by Singapore Chinese Physicians’ Associations and Singapore Chung Hwa Medical Institution, Heeling Heritage highlights milestones in TCM’s development in Singapore, the impacts on the community, and how they are adapting to modern society. Through a diverse range of interpretive displays, historical artefacts, interactive experiences, and stories of medical organisations and brands, visitors can discover how TCM has evolved while remaining true in its cultural heritage as a living tradition in Singapore.

Discover TCM in Healing Heritage though five zones 

Tracking the Healing Journey

When and how did TCM in Singapore get started? Follow and track the Healing Journey, learn about TCM’s development in Singapore, from the early 19th century medical halls to its journey today recognition in today’s healthcare system. 

Some of the milestones include the founding of Thong Chai Medical Institution in 1867 and the recent inclusion of acupuncture under Medisave.

Encountering the Neighbourhood Healer 

This might be a familiar sight for some of us here, a nostalgic feeling on visiting your neighbourhood medical hall with its classic wooden cabinets and drawers of herbs. In this zone, enter into a recreated medical hall, similar to the ones that you visited (yourself, or with your parents or grandparents). 

Learn how family-run businesses adapted to changing times. Visitors can also try an interactive herb-matching game to learn about remedies hands-on. Check out the drawers too and the herbs on display. Does all these invoke nostalgia inside you, especially for those who are familiar with TCM medical halls?

Building Benevolence through Community

Discover the roles that charitable institutions and professional organisations in supporting healthcare during epidemics and raising standards through education and research. Exhibits include traditional acupuncture needles and early journals like Medical Monthly (Yiyao Yuekan)

Transforming Tradition Through Innovation

Even TCM has transformed itself through innovation, evolving with our modern life, from halal-certified remedies, to digital diagnostic tools and even vending machines. 

Have you heard of canine acupuncture? If you haven’t, check out how TCM can be adapted and applied in veterinary care. 

Sustaining a Living Heritage 

Learn and experience how TCM has underwent changes and innovations over time, continuing to be a part of everyday life, from medicinal cuisine and herbal products to social media outreach by young TCM physicians such as THE TCM FOLKS. 

Before you finish, discovering and learning about TCM, a conversation kiosk further invites you to reflect on your own encounters with TCM. 

According to Alvin Tan, CEO of SCCC: “With Healing Heritage, we hope to focus on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) as a system of medicine and as a form of intangible cultural heritage, and to showcase TCM’s contributions to the Chinese community and to society. We also hope to highlight TCM’s impact and use beyond the Chinese community, and to raise public awareness of how TCM has endured, evolved and become part of Singaporeans’ everyday life.”

My TCM Healing Heritage Stories

Looking back when I was a young kid, I don’t understand much about TCM, my encounters were mainly the strong aroma from the different kinds of herbs from a traditional medical hall. 

Drinking tonic soup made from those TCM herbs wasn’t a great experience as it was really bitter, There is a Chinese saying, “苦口良药”, it took me probably a few decades before I was able to understand and appreciate those bitter traditional Chinese soup. Nowadays, I am able to enjoy the medicinal cuisine dishes, although some of the TCM drinks are still really bitter and a challenge at times for me to drink it, even though it’s good for my health. 

My personal thoughts and views are that TCM is highly under-rated and under appreciated by many of us (I am guilty of this). This Healing Heritage exhibition presented by SCCC is really enriching and informative, showcasing the rich history, heritage, culture and importance of TCM from its origins to our modern society today.

Share this Healing Heritage presented by SCCC to your family, relatives and friends, make it an extended family outing to this exhibition, and share your nostalgic TCM Healing Heritage stories.

Healing Heritage Exhibition Information

• Date: 1st October 2025 to 22nd February 2026
• Venue: Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre Creative Box, Level 6
• Price: Free

The post SCCC Presents Healing Heritage: Story of TCM in Singapore appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Noguchi Coin is Japan’s trusted curator of rare and high-quality collective coins, they are recognised for its leading online platform, and extensive range of internationally renowned coins. This landmark launch brings Noguchi Coin’s passion for numismatics beyond Japan, introducing Singapore’s collectors and enthusiasts to a world of exquisite coins sourced globally from trusted mints in Canada, Austria, and beyond.

Noguchi Coin x Jewel Singapore Collaboration Coin

An exclusive Jewel x Noguchi Limited-Edition Commemorative coin was launched on 19th September 2025, there are only 100 pieces available at $88 (inclusive of GST), created specially and available only at the Singapore pop-up store.

This special and exclusive coin design features Jewel Changi Airport’s world-renowned Rain Vortex, the tallest indoor waterfall on Earth and an emblem of Singapore’s identity as a crossroads of the world. More than just an iconic landmark, the Rain Vortex represents the flow of commerce, culture, and innovation, drawing people together in harmony under one roof.

This Noguchi Coin x Jewel Singapore Collaboration Coin celebrates Singapore’s role on the global stage while also reflecting its own philosophy, connecting tradition with the future, Japan with Singapore, and collectors with enduring value.

World-Class Coins at Accessible Prices

Noguchi Coin is dedicated to making high-quality world-class coins collectibles at accessible prices without compromising on its authenticity and rarity. They source directly from official local channels in countries such as Canada and Austria, and reducing unnecessary distribution layers and labour costs. Noguchi Coin ensures that their customers receive the highest quality coins at the most competitive prices.

Besides the limited-edition coin, Noguchi Coin Pop-Up at Jewel Changi Airport will also feature a selection of GST-exempt coins, making them even more attractive to collectors and investors in Singapore. 

These include internationally recognised bullion coins such as the Vienna Philharmonic, Canadian Maple Leaf, Britannia, Australian Kangaroo, Chinese Panda, American Eagle, South African Krugerrand, and more, all valued for their purity, liquidity, and global reputation.

A Milestone for Collectors in Singapore

The Noguchi Coin Pop-Up at Jewel Changi Airport marks Noguchi Coin’s first step into Southeast Asia. They are now strategically located in one of Singapore’s and also the world’s most recognisable landmarks, and a gateway for international travellers. A milestone for collectors, the rare opportunity to access exclusive coins at GST-exempt prices, appealing to both local enthusiasts and global visitors. 

If you are into coin collection, heritage and cultural enthusiasts, or lovers of exquisite design, the Noguchi Coin Pop-Up at Jewel Changi Airport will be of great interest to you, they offer a rare chance to view and own coins that are not normally available in Singapore. 

Noguchi Coin Pop-Up at Jewel Changi Airport

• Dates: 4th September to 4th December 2025
• Time: 10am to 10pm daily
• Venue: Jewel Changi Airport, Level 1, (Outside Imperial Treasure)

For more information on Noguchi Coin, please visit https://noguchicoin-jp.com 

Instagram: @nuguchicoin.en 

The post Noguchi Coin Debuts Pop-Up Store in Jewel Changi Airport appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Looking back at my previous years coverage on World Migratory Bird Day – WMBD 2021, WMBD 2023 (May 13th), WMBD 2023 (October 14th), WMBD 2024 (11th May), WMBD 2024 (12th October) and WMBD 2025 (10th May). My birding journey has seen some great adventures visiting various nature reserves, parks and coastal areas for my birding photography, curating and uploading them into my Flickr photography collection – Bird/Wildlife Photography in Singapore.

WMBD 2025 Theme – Shared Spaces: Creating Bird-Friendly Cities & Communities

Although Singapore is a very small country by land size, we are a hub for migratory birds on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway and Central Asian Flyway, making it a major migratory bird hub/stopover destination. Singapore now can play a bigger and wider international role in the migratory birds journey with those 2 major flyways, a transit hub for migratory birds. 

Singapore is part of the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, migratory birds making a pitstop in Singapore, giving bird photographers here in Singapore many opportunities to photograph them in action, the diversity and beauty of those migratory bird species. 

Recent research findings over the past few years have also indicated that Singapore’s status as a major migratory bird hub has grown in stature, Singapore now has become the intersection of 2 major flyways, adding the Central Asian-Indian Flyway to the East Asian-Australasian Flyway.

For more information on Singapore has a hub for migratory birds in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway and Central Asian Flyway, please check out the following articles below:

• NParks article – Feathered Global Ambassadors: https://www.nparks.gov.sg/nparksbuzz/issue-42-vol-3-2019/conservation/feathered-global-ambassadors 
• Mothership article – New study shows Singapore is a pitstop for migratory birds from 2 major flyways: https://mothership.sg/2020/12/migratory-bird-central-asian-flyway-singapore/ 
• Nature Portfolio Scientific Reports: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-77897-z 
• Straits Times article on 1st April 2024 – New Initiative to protect migratory birds and habitats: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/new-initiative-to-protect-migratory-birds-and-habitats

Visiting the various nature reserves, parks and coastal areas in Singapore for my birding photography, we can see Singapore playing their small part in creating bird-friendly cities & communities, through the protection, conservation and preservation of nature areas, parks, green belt connectors.

Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve in Singapore is a hotspot (internationally important) for migratory birds. It’s a must visit for bird photographers, nature and wildlife lovers. If you are an international visitor planning bird photography visits in Singapore, check out NParks Birdwatching at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve for more information. 

Flickr Photography Collection – Bird/Wildlife Photography in Singapore

I am continuing to work on curating and uploading more bird photographs in Singapore, showcasing the importance of Singapore as a bird hub for migratory birds. Although I haven’t reach the level of photographing all the bird species listed in Singapore by Birds of Singapore website by Bird Society of Singapore, 

I would still be actively planning my trips to nature reserves, parks, coastal areas for bird photography (local and migratory) in Singapore, revisiting those parks and coastal areas that I don’t visit as often over the years, and I can update bird photography from those locations inside my bird photography collections on Flickr.

Migratory Bird Photography October 2025 to March 2026

Migratory bird photography season from October 2025 to March 2026 started slightly earlier for me in September 2025. Although it’s not peak bird migratory season yet here in Singapore, I would be planning and keeping a lookout for migratory birds arriving in Singapore in October and November 2025.

Meanwhile, I would also continue with photographing local birds that I have yet to be photographed, that has been eluding me over the years that I have been doing bird photography. 

To fellow bird photography friends out there, have a good migratory bird photography season ahead! 

The post World Migratory Bird Day 2025 (11th October) appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Photography

Photography Competitions/Contests

There are still a few photography competitions/contests in October 2025 leading up to the end of 2025. Here are the ones that I am working on in October 2025 till December 2025 

Concrete in Life 2526

A global photography competition that I found out last year or so, I would be joining and participating in Concrete in Life 2526. While I am not really an architectural photographer, I regularly take cityscapes and travel photography, where concrete plays an important role in the building of a country and society, from roads, bridges, to the homes in the cities that we live in. 

Sony World Photography Awards 2025

A worldwide photography contest that I have been regularly participating in over the years. I am in the process of curating and selecting my photographs for submission to Sony World Photography Awards 2025 in December 2025 before the closing date. If you are keen to participate in Sony World Photography Awards 2025, do check them out!

Exhibitions 

1st National Photography Art Exhibition (NPAE) 2025 in October 2025

The 1st National Photography Art Exhibition (NPAE) 2025 will be held from 9th to 12th October 2025 at The Art Space SG, from 11am to 6pm. I have a photograph selected for display at NPAE 2025, I would like to thank the panel for selecting my photograph to be part of 1st National Photography Art Exhibition celebrating SG60.

• The Art Space SG
• 66 Kallang Pudding Road #01-01 Hor Kew Business Centre, Singapore 349324

Visual Storytelling / Content Creation

Working on my SG60 Visual Storytelling Personal Project 

I am currently working on my SG60 visual storytelling personal project, consolidation of my photos shot in 2025 as part of SG60, curation of photographs shot over the decades for consideration that would be selected for SG60 my personal project.

Still a work in progress, more updates to come soon when the time is right. Do keep a lookout for updates along the way!

Ready for Migratory Bird Photography Season Q3 2025 to Q1 2026

Migratory bird photography season has started early in September 2025, I would be picking up the pace, planning various visits to nature reserves, parks, park connector networks/rivers and coastlines in the coming months. 

I would also keep a lookout for other wildlife in Singapore too during my photo walks, looking forward to adding more birding and wildlife photography to my Bird/Wildlife Photography in Singapore collection on Flickr.

Heritage, Culture, Arts, Performing Arts and Creative Sectors

Year 2025 till date to Q3 2025 has been a pretty fruitful and enriching year covering, documenting and photographing, especially in the areas of culture, arts and performing arts. I am working on curating and uploading my photos into my Flickr photography collections and writing my visual stories here on my TGH Photography and Travel website. 

The performing arts sector that I have attended for this year 2025 till date, a good mix of contemporary performing arts and traditions, feeling the deep connections to open up my creativity and understanding of arts and culture.

Of Other Thoughts and Views

Love of F1/Motorsports Photography

Canon Singapore recently organised a seminar, The Art of the Race by Darren Heath, it was a great turnout, and the audience enjoyed an insightful and learning session on F1/motorsports photography from Darren Heath. I had the opportunity to get a special session chatting with Darren over lunch, asking him about F1/motorsports photography, from a motorsports photography enthusiast (me) to a F1/motorsports photography legend (Darren Heath). Keep a lookout for my upcoming articles on the The Art of the Race seminar and the chat/sharing session with Darren Heath. 

After chatting with Darren, and learning about his art and craft of F1/motorsports photography, it kind of rekindle my love and passion for F1/motorsports photography that I had years back. Also, it’s also time to stop just chasing to photograph the sports car in action, and forgetting about the fans, passion and behind the scenes of motorsports that their stories need to be make more known to the world of motorsports enthusiasts.

Words from a fellow visual storyteller 

AikBeng’s Chia (affectionately a.k.a ABC) recently did a video interview on CNA Insider, titled: Photographing Weird, Quirky & Strange Singapore: There’s Always A Story Behind” | Dear Singapore, it was refreshing and sending reminders to myself on some of those challenges, and stuff we hear on our creative works and journeys, the inevitable comparisons, public and private scrutiny that comes with putting up our photography works on social media and internet space. 

AikBeng’s photography style and approach is exceptional, he tells visual stories through his eyes, heart, mind and soul that even some of us visual storytellers might not be be to visualise. AikBeng is an inspiration, I have huge respect and admiration for his unique, bold and direct style of visual storytelling that is not conventional.

Some of AikBeng’s quotes inside this CNA Insider video, “There is beauty in imperfection”, “Don’t judge people”, “We Shouldn’t Compare”

Those quotes hit me deep, time to stop chasing perfection, and be mindful of the comparisons and judgements that we faced on social media and what we might face from fellow photographers in real life. 

And to let our own visual storytelling and creativity do the rest. 

The post Photography / Visual Storytelling / Content Creation Themes and Plans for October 2025 appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Mid-Autumn Family FUN (MAFF) 2025

Mid-Autumn Family FUN (MAFF) 2025 is taking place over the weekend of 4th to 5th October 2025, this festival will feature a total of 27 diverse programmes, taking place in SCCC and Singapore Conference Hall (SCH) – This is the largest line-up of programmes for MAFF since its launch in 2023.

Key Highlights of MAFF 2025

Moongazing with Monday Bruce 

One of the key highlights of MAFF 2025 will be Moongazing with Monday Bruce, cute and adorable art installations at SCCC’s Roof Garden, they are five giant illuminated inflatables of Monday Bruce, the main rabbit character from a popular series of collectible blind boxes. They will be on display from 11th September to 30th November 2025, 10am to 10pm daily, at SCCC’s Roof Garden.

Remember to bring your lantern out for Moongazing with Monday Bruce! Pose for photos with Monday Bruce with your lanterns! Here are some photos that I took on how you can possibly interact with Monday Bruce with your lanterns! 

Show us your creativity and fun and share them with SCCC and SCO! Remember to tag SCCC and SCO, hashtag #MAFF2025 #MidAutumnFamilyFun #SINGAPO人 #SCCC #SingaporeChineseCulturalCentre 

Ancient Moon, Present Light

Another key highlights of MAFF 2025 will be SCO’s Ancient Moon, Present Light concert, they are allowing children under six years old – for the first time – to enjoy an evening of moonlit tunes. Under the baton of Associate Conductor Moses Gay, the concert will showcase a variety of familiar festive pieces for children and those young at heart to learn more about the world of Chinese orchestral music.

There are many more exciting and fun lineup of MAFF 2025 programmes, here are some other programme highlights that would be of interest to you:

Parent-Child Workshops

Great for families with children, a series of interactive hands-on sessions for parent-and-child or grandparent-and-children pairings to experience soap-making, tea-whisking and traditional Chinese medicine scented pouch making.

Rabbit’s Brew House

An experiential tea house at SCCC’s Multi-Purpose Hall bringing together mooncake sampling and tea tasting, crosstalk and Hanfu dance performances, Hanfu sharing and photo-taking, cellophane lantern-making and Chinese knot-making activities. 

Play It Chill 

Visitors can catch free performances and activities at SCCC’s Level 1 Concourse. They are suitable for all ages, ranging from drumming acts by Drum Feng, storytelling, poetry reciting to lantern riddles and fan painting.

MAFF 2025 Bingo Game 

Visitors to SCCC and SCH and participate in a bingo game that encourages you to explore various venues within the premises. By completing different MAFF 2025 activities – from performances to workshops and character hunts – visitors can collect stamps and redeem exclusive prizes, such as silkscreen printed tote bags in partnership with STPI and Munchi pancakes. 

No More Blues under the Moon

Head to SCCC’s Roof Garden, relax and unwind under a starry night, enjoy the breathtaking views while listening to acoustic renditions of your favourite Mandopop hits by artiste Jarvis Quek, and also moon and star gazing with the NUS Astronomical Society.

Wan Qing Yuan: A Journey Through History and Heritage – Travelling Exhibition

Check out Wan Qing Yuan travelling exhibition on a Journey Through History and Heritage. Discover the stories of Wan Qing Yuan, that once served as the residence of prominent local figures and witnessed significant historical events. Visitors can also participate in the stamping activity to create their own multi-layered postcard.

Mr Alvin Tan, CEO of SCCC, adds: “Through the festival, we hope to transform our Centre into a festive hub where families and friends can get together and celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival in uniquely Singaporean ways, and in doing so, inject more cultural vibrancy into the CBD.” 

Come on down to MAFF 2025 on 4 & 5 October 2025!

MAFF 2025 is open to the public, this exciting and fun festival event offers a wide range of both free and ticketed programmes, ideal for families with children, to know more about Mid-Autumn Festival. For more information on MAFF 2025, the full list of programmes, ticketing and registration details, please visit https://singaporen.sg/festivals/mid-autumn/familyfun 

For eligible Singapore Citizens, you can use the SG Culture Pass credits to offset ticket costs for eligible MAFF 2025 programmes! 

Spread the word, Pass-It-On and Pay-It-Forward, tell your family, relatives, and friends about MAFF 2025 taking place on 4th and 5th October 2025! Come on down, enjoy and have a great Mid-Autumn Festival 2025 Celebrations at Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre!

The post Celebrate Mid-Autumn Family FUN 2025 at SCCC and SCO on 4 & 5 October! appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Photography

Photography Competitions/Contests

There are still a few ongoing photography competitions/contests in September 2025. Here are the ones that I am working on in September 2025.

Experience More with Capture SG60 by RSP & HONOR

HONOR recently launched a foldable smartphone, HONOR Magic V5, and this is Singapore’s SG60 birthday year, HONOR is celebrating this milestone by inviting the public to photograph Singapore’s city architectural journey, from iconic landmarks to everyday spaces. 

This photography competition is jointly organised by HONOR and RSP Architects Planners & Engineers. If you are keen to know more and participate ,visit  https://rsp.design/capturesg60/ and find out more information and details.

Alan Photo Competition – Catch the Moment

Alan Photo Singapore announced a photo completion titled, “Catch the Moment”, inviting photographers to show a side of Singapore that most people never notice. That sounds like a pretty nice theme to participate in, showcasing many different sights and views of Singapore that most people never notice.

The competition period is from 1 – 30 September 2025, if you are keen to participate or find out more information, you can check out Alan Photo social media pages. I am going to enter and see how it goes for me.

Exhibitions 

NUSPS Montage 2025 Seminar – Not a winner | A Photograph on Display

The NUSPS Montage 2025 Seminar took place on 23rd August 2025, I attended the Montage 2025 seminar, listening to talks by professionals, photo exhibition and prize presentation.

The winning entries for NUSPS Montage 2025 were on display at Montage 2025 Seminar, together with the other top entries for this photo competition. Although I didn’t win any prizes at Montage 2025 photo competition, I did have a photograph printed on display at NUSPS Montage 2025 Seminar. 

Overall, a small consolation and recognition, this was also a good experience for me participating in Montage 2025 photo competition, a great NUSPS Montage 2025 seminar lineup of speakers, and last but not least, catching up with friends from Canon Singapore and photographer friends from various photography groups in Singapore, friends from the former Canon EOS World community, KOMMUNITY, and SG Storm Trackers.  

More personal insights and thoughts from NUSPS Montage 2025 photo competition and Montage 2025 seminar can be found in my article.

1st National Photography Art Exhibition (NPAE) 2025 in October 2025

I am still waiting for more information and details on the 1st National Photography Art Exhibition (NPAE) 2025 that is taking place in October 2025. Keep a lookout for their event!

Visual Storytelling / Content Creation

Working towards my SG60 Visual Storytelling Personal Project 

I am working towards and closer to my SG60 visual storytelling personal project, writing down more ideas and inspirations. There are two ideas/plans in my mind as follows below:

1) Notebook A5 size

My first idea/plan to get an existing notebook A5 size, curating my 60 photographs to mark SG60 celebrations, this would more handicraft and hands on making a zine style photo book. Not likely to be in mass production, more of on a request/order basis for friends and supporters, whether based in Singapore or overseas.

2) Photography Zine with design and layout 

The second would be designed with layout for printing and sale on ad-hoc basis or in bulk printing, along the A5 notebook size. This would allow me to have a discussion with publishers or photography printing houses, and also place my photography zine in their library.

Ready for Migratory Bird Photography Season Q3 2025 to Q1 2026

The early migratory birds have started arriving in Singapore, some are earlier than expected. I am ready for migratory bird photography season starting in September 2025 leading up to Q1 2026. Making plans to visit various nature reserves and parks for migratory bird photography, as well as nature, landscape, creating travel articles and my own nature and outdoors therapy with my photography. 

Looking forward to add more birding and wildlife photography to my Bird/Wildlife Photography in Singapore collection on Flickr.

Heritage, Culture, Arts, Performing Arts and Creative Sectors

A fruitful month of August 2025 in the heritage, culture, arts and performing arts sector. At this moment, they are more of a personal visual storytelling and documentation. I do hope there would be some of renumeration/commissioned work would materialise down the road with some of those heritage, culture, arts and performing arts sector.

Discussions on doing more, collaborating with other like-minded heritage, culture and arts advocates in other fields are still ongoing. When it starts to gain more traction, I would share more details. Meanwhile, keep a lookout for more visual stories of my heritage, culture, arts and performing arts sector.

The State of the Heritage, Culture, Arts, Performing Arts and Creative Sectors in Singapore

In August 2025, The Projector suddenly announced its closure, sending shock waves, disappointments, a wake up call and a reality check for arts, culture, creatives, filmmakers, photographers, media production and those working in related industries. 

From the costs of running a business in Singapore (let alone a business in the arts, creatives, cultural industry), changing media landscape, the types of entertainment and media we are consuming in today’s climate. Too many “things” that distract us, from toys to online streaming, what is our state of the arts, creative and culture sectors in Singapore?

Are we doing enough, or do we have to lose it before we start to appreciate, is it too late and too little? While I am not most immersed into independent films, their influence and impacts on the arts, culture and creatives have an impact on developing my creative aspects in my visual storytelling and writing.

Personally, it can be difficult to prioritise which areas of arts, creative and culture sectors that we want to be interested in and be a part of. Once we put our time and money into a few of them, others might get neglected, and when another bites the dust, we also feel the disappointment that we haven’t done enough to spend some time and our monetary support there.

There are also arts, culture and creative sectors that are getting the support and attendance. It’s such a mixed bag on two ends of the spectrum, some have it better, how many are struggling? How many more of those “another one bites the dust” before we wake up and support our local arts, creative, and culture sectors in Singapore better, with our time and wallet?

Of Many Thoughts and Views

Experiencing two different sides of the stories in the heritage, culture, arts, performing arts and creative sectors, I have many thoughts and views, I might write it down more personal and in-depth.

Reflecting deeply, where and how I could adapt, the delicate balance between revenue from photography work to personal visual storytelling and documentation? Where and how I can help and support each other in the heritage, culture, arts, performing arts and creative sectors in Singapore? 

Many thoughts and views to ponder deeply, planning, changing and strategising ahead.

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