Ubin Photography

Whenever we thought of nature photography in Singapore, the best place is Pulau Ubin. So when one of our friends started to pick up photography, we brought him there. It really doesn’t matter what camera are you using. As long as it can take photos, we are good to go.

For me, it was my trusted Nikon D90 and the 50mm lens.

Ubin gives us the unique view of a kampong and life that is probably a few decades back compared to main land Singapore. A certain laid-back lifestyle that is so captivating especially so for city dwellers like us.

Even the animals are so relaxed and chill when we approach them, no fear but just friendly.

Tried to take a few marco shots with my 50mm but this is probably the best I can get. Still good.

The black and white photos didn’t turn out that well. Maybe I will come back again with my film camera and a few rolls of B&W films.

A great time with friends and sharing shooting fun.

Turned paparazzi on my wife. I am so blessed to have a partner that shares the same love for photography.

Parting shot.

B&W Pulau Ubin

It’s easier to shoot in colour than in black & white. It is so difficult to visualise everything in black & white, taking care of the composition, exposure, contrast, etc.

Yet so many people are drawn to black & white photography. I hope you will like these photos as much as I have enjoyed taking it.

I wonder how long have the tyres been bumping up and down along the same route? Will they be ever replaced?

Simple lifestyle with simple food.

Scarecrow not found anywhere else. Did you dive?

There are a lot of work going on Ubin, but please don’t change too much!

You can be walking alone, but someone is watching over you.

The road is long …

Cooling coconut drink.

Chinese Opera @ Pulau Ubin

Do you know that there is a permanent Chinese Opera stage in Singapore? This is probably the last standing stage and it is in Pulau Ubin. And once a year during the Vesak period, this stage will be lit up with a few nights of Teochew Chinese Opera to celebrate the occasion.

This year, someone sponsored the ferry trips and every night from 6.30-10.30pm, the ferry ride is free. How cool!

This is the first time I see Ubin during the evening period and with so many flags.

Even the streets are all “dressed up” for the occasion.

The last standing permanent stage. Made of wooden planks and tin roof.

Thankfully I met a veteran photographer who had been coming in for several years to shoot the event, he brought me to the backstage and told me the people are generally very nice and doesn’t mind us taking their photo as long as we do not obstruct them in their preparation.

So here are some of the backstage photos.

  

 

 

The artistes are crucial, but the musical instruments are equally necessary.

This Uncle is preparing for the night’s performance, making sure the songs are in order.

As the night creeps by, the troupe’s makeup are mostly done, it’s time to put on their headgear and some final touch up.

 

 

This lady is the leader of the opera troupe. She is such a friendly Auntie.

Finishing touch on the eyebrows and lipsticks.

 

Lastly is putting on the costumes. A tiring 1.5 hours preparation is about to finish. Smoking break.

 

 

For those who are waiting to put on their costumes, it’s a good time to just rest or chit-chat with one another.

A pair of well worn shoes.

The show is ready to begin.

There are going to be 2 shows that night.

 

Every successful performance needs a very dedicated backstage crew, pulling and changing the backdrop manually.

It was truly a great experience to witness the troupe getting ready for the night’s performance. It doesn’t matter how many people are in the audience, they do what they do because of traditions.

My personal favourite photo of this series.