SHUTTER JOURNEY SINGAPORE

Genting Nature Adventures (Awana) – A Wet and Rewarding Macro Photography Adventure

Posted on October 28, 2026 by Editor AL

Genting Nature Adventures (Awana) – A Wet and Rewarding Macro Photography Adventure
– Text by Lee Shi Qing & AL Lee

24 October 2026, Malaysia – We made our way back to Genting Nature Adventures (GNA) at Awana for the second time this year. This visit was particularly meaningful as we wanted to present our Certificate of Appreciation (COA) to the GNA team in recognition of their unwavering support for Shutter Journey Singapore over the past five years.

Their commitment to sustainability, environmental conservation, and the preservation of the ecosystem is highly commendable. It is always encouraging to work with organisations that share our appreciation for nature and our belief in the importance of protecting the environment for future generations.

Of course, no visit to GNA would be complete without some macro photography!

A Stormy Start to the Morning – The morning greeted us with extremely dense mist, creating an atmospheric landscape that was both beautiful and challenging to navigate. The mist soon gave way to a heavy storm, and before long, we were all thoroughly drenched.

With the rain showing little sign of letting up, we decided to call a temporary halt to our photography session and head for an early lunch. Rather than abandoning the outing altogether, we took the opportunity to rest, dry off, and wait for the weather to improve.

Team Shutter Journey (From Left to Right) – AL Lee, Lee Shi Qing, Melody Tan & Serene Ong

Fortunately, our patience paid off. The storm eventually cleared, giving us a window of opportunity to resume our adventure. With renewed enthusiasm, we returned to the trails, hoping that the rain would have brought some interesting photographic subjects into view.

Exploring the Clearwater Trail – This time, we explored the Clearwater Trail, which connects to the Awana Bio Park before looping back towards the GNA base. The entire route covered approximately 6 km, offering plenty of opportunities to observe the forest environment and search for interesting macro subjects along the way.

The conditions after the storm presented a different set of photographic opportunities. Many insects appeared temporarily immobilised by the rain, remaining relatively still on leaves, stems, and other vegetation. For macro photographers, this meant that numerous subjects were easier to observe and photograph than they might have been under drier conditions.

There was certainly no shortage of subjects to keep our cameras busy! From tiny insects hidden among the foliage to other fascinating creatures occupying the forest undergrowth, every section of the trail offered the possibility of another discovery.

However, photographing these creatures still required patience and care. Wet foliage, droplets of water, changing light, and the damp surroundings added to the challenge. Macro photography is often about observing the smallest details, and the post-rain environment offered plenty of interesting textures and natural settings to explore.

The experience was a good reminder that nature photography does not always require perfect weather. Sometimes, conditions that initially appear unfavourable can create unique opportunities that would otherwise be missed.

Nature Reclaims the Trail – As we gradually made our way back to the GNA base, we noticed something particularly striking. Compared with our previous visit in July 2026, the vegetation along the trails had grown considerably. The upper sections of the trail, which had appeared relatively barren during our earlier visit, were now covered in thick vegetation. Areas that once offered more open views had become increasingly green, with plants filling the spaces and giving the surroundings a more lush and natural appearance.

It was fascinating to witness these changes over a period of just a few months. The transformation served as a reminder of how quickly nature can regenerate when the environment is allowed to develop with minimal disturbance.

The forest was not merely a backdrop for our photography; it was a living ecosystem constantly changing with the seasons, weather, and growth of its vegetation. Every visit offered a different experience, even when we returned to familiar trails.

For photographers, this also means that revisiting the same location can be just as rewarding as exploring somewhere new. The light, weather, vegetation, and wildlife are never quite the same, giving us fresh opportunities to observe and document the natural world.

Another Memorable Adventure at GNA – Our second visit to Genting Nature Adventures in 2026 turned out to be a wet but rewarding experience. What began with dense mist and a heavy downpour eventually became an enjoyable macro photography outing, filled with interesting subjects and unexpected discoveries.

More importantly, the visit allowed us to express our appreciation to the GNA team for their continued support over the past five years. Their dedication to sustainability and the natural environment is something we deeply respect, and we look forward to continuing this meaningful relationship.

At Shutter Journey Singapore, nature photography is not just about capturing beautiful images. It is also about developing a deeper appreciation of biodiversity, understanding the environment around us, and learning to observe the world more carefully.

As we left the trails that afternoon, we carried home more than photographs. We had witnessed the forest’s remarkable response to changing conditions, experienced the rewards of perseverance, and gained another reminder of why protecting our natural environment matters.

Until our next adventure at Genting Nature Adventures in July 2027, there will always be another trail to explore, another tiny creature to discover, and another story waiting to be captured through our lenses.

Keen to join our walks? Click here to join our Whatapps Group!!

View the full set of images here.

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Contributing Editor – Lee Shi Qing

A firm believer of Self-Sufficient living and gives no f**k to anyone getting in her way to reaching her goals in life. Kind in nature & Dangerous when provoked. Loves Mcdonald’s Fries and hates all the burgers there. While she helps out in gear reviews, Qing is currently serving as an Online Administrator for Ourshutterjourney.com Facebook Groups and Online Shop.

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

Chief Editor & Founder of Ourshutterjourney.com Worldwide and Principal Trainer at Ourshutterjourney Photography Academy. AL is a commercial photographer as well as an educator who believes in the art of digital memories. Previous ambassador of several photography brands, AL is well versed in many camera systems. Someone once told us AL’s man cave looks more like a camera store than a bedroom.

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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged adventure, Allan Lee, awana-bio-park, awana-nature-trail, genting-nature-adventures, hiking, nature, Photography, Shutter Journey Singapore, travel | Leave a comment

Shutter Journey Photo Appraisal Workshop 2026 – Learning Through Different Perspectives

Posted on October 28, 2026 by Editor AL

Shutter Journey Photo Appraisal Workshop 2026 – Learning Through Different Perspectives
– Text by Melody Tan & Editor AL

17th October 2026, Singapore – Shutter Journey Singapore recently organised the 2026 edition of its Photo Appraisal Workshop, bringing photographers together for an engaging and enriching session focused on learning, sharing, and discovering new perspectives in photography.

The workshop was designed to encourage photographers to look beyond the obvious and explore how an image could be interpreted, developed, and presented differently. Photography is not simply about capturing a moment or producing a technically sound image. It is also about visual storytelling, creative expression, composition, and the many ways a photographer can communicate an idea or emotion through a photograph. Sometimes, a fresh perspective from another photographer is all it takes to see an image in an entirely new light.

Moderated by Allan Lee, Founder of Shutter Journey and an award-winning photographer, the workshop adopted a cross-critique approach that encouraged open discussion and active participation. Photographers presented their images to the group, allowing fellow participants to share their observations, interpretations, and constructive feedback directly with the photographer who created the work.

Unlike a conventional presentation where feedback may be limited to the instructor, this format gave everyone an opportunity to contribute. Participants could explain what they saw in an image, highlight elements that caught their attention, and suggest alternative approaches to composition, framing, lighting, cropping, and visual presentation. The photographer behind each image could then consider these different viewpoints and reflect on how the photograph might be improved or interpreted in other ways.

One of the most valuable aspects of the workshop was the realisation that there is rarely just one way to appreciate or present a photograph. An image that speaks strongly to one person may evoke a different response from another. A particular composition might be effective in telling one story, while a different crop or presentation could reveal another dimension of the same subject. These differences in interpretation are what make photography such a fascinating and personal art form.

Throughout the session, attendees had the opportunity to learn not only from the feedback given to their own photographs but also from the discussions surrounding images presented by other participants. The incredible photographs shared during the workshop provided plenty of inspiration, while the exchange of ideas encouraged everyone to think more critically and creatively about their own photographic work.

Beyond the learning experience, the workshop was also an enjoyable occasion for members to connect, exchange ideas, and share their passion for photography. The open and friendly environment allowed participants to express their opinions, ask questions, and learn from one another without the pressure of having to produce a single “correct” answer.

At Shutter Journey, we believe that learning photography is a continuous journey, and the learning process does not stop when a photograph is taken. Reviewing our work, listening to different opinions, and being willing to explore alternative approaches are important steps towards becoming more thoughtful and versatile photographers.

The 2026 Photo Appraisal Workshop once again reinforced our belief in community learning. By bringing photographers together to share their work and perspectives, we create opportunities for everyone to grow, regardless of their experience or photographic interests.

Ultimately, the greatest value of such a workshop lies not in determining whose photograph is the best, but in discovering what we can learn from one another. Every image offers a story, every photographer brings a unique perspective, and every discussion opens the door to new possibilities.

This is the spirit that Shutter Journey continues to nurture — learning together, growing together, and seeing photography through a different lens.

Keen to join our events? Click here to join our Whatapps Group!!

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Contributing Editor – Melody Tan

Loves quiet walks along beaches, has a mind of her own and decides everything in life in either black or white with nothing in between. Her priority these days revolves around her 2 lovely kids & teaching them music or photography. A lover of yoga and an avid traveler, Melody aims to visit at least 30 countries before she reach 40 years old – from what we know, she had completed 35 as of 2025.

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Allan Lee, Art, Camera, nature, Ourshutterjourney, Photography, Shutter Journey Singapore, travel | Leave a comment

Little India Deepavali Light-Up 2026 – Chasing Colours, People and Stories

Posted on October 15, 2026 by Editor AL

Little India Deepavali Light-Up 2026 – Chasing Colours, People and Stories
– Text by Melody Tan & Editor AL

03rd October 2026, Singapore – After visiting Takahan Tan’s Toy Photography Exhibition at City Square Mall, we decided to continue our afternoon with a visit to the Little India Deepavali 2026 Light-Up. Rather than heading straight into the main event area, we chose to start from City Square Mall and slowly make our way towards Tekka Market via the back alleys.

The crowd appeared to be lighter than in previous years, perhaps partly due to the haze. Nevertheless, the festive spirit was very much alive. Although the Deepavali bazaar had yet to be set up, many shops had already begun decorating their premises, adding splashes of colour to the streets. As usual, the Saturday-night crowd gradually filled the neighbourhood.

Colours, music and people — these are some of the things that make Little India such an interesting place for street photography. There is an energy here that is difficult to replicate elsewhere, especially during a major festive celebration.

We decided to explore the smaller alleys and side streets instead of concentrating solely on the main attractions. Our walk took us all the way from City Square Mall to Tekka Market. It was quite a journey, particularly with the heat and haze making the afternoon less comfortable than usual.

Yet, what made the experience memorable was not just the photography.

Many people were friendly and smiled at us as we walked around with our cameras. We smiled back, and these small exchanges created a pleasant connection between us and the people we encountered. No words were necessary. It was almost like an unspoken language — a simple acknowledgement between strangers sharing the same space.

For a street photographer, these moments can be just as rewarding as capturing a technically perfect photograph.

Our experiences in Little India have not always been positive. During previous visits to the Deepavali bazaar, we encountered stallholders who shouted at us or scolded us when we tried to photograph their stalls.

Perhaps some were concerned that we were photographing their businesses without intending to make a purchase, especially when they were paying substantial rental costs. While we could understand that business owners might have their own concerns, such encounters were certainly discouraging.

Photography in a busy commercial environment requires mutual understanding. We are there to document the atmosphere, people and culture, but the stallholders are also there to earn a living. A little courtesy and communication can go a long way in helping both sides understand one another.

Interestingly, those who were friendly and welcoming could also benefit from the exposure their businesses received when we shared our photographs across our social media platforms. Street photography, after all, can tell stories about a place and the people who make it special.

As night fell, the atmosphere changed. More people arrived, the streets became livelier, and the festive lights stood out against the darkness.

This was when we began experimenting with slower shutter speeds and multiple exposures, moving beyond straightforward documentary photography to explore more creative interpretations of the scene.

Slow shutter speeds allowed us to capture movement and convey the energy of the crowd, while multiple exposures offered opportunities to combine colours, shapes and different moments into a single frame. Sometimes, the results were unpredictable, but that was part of the fun.

Not every photograph needs to be a conventional record of what we see. Photography can also be about experimentation, personal expression and the enjoyment of discovering new ways to interpret a familiar environment.

Although this was not an official Shutter Journey Singapore outing, we had a wonderful time exploring Little India together.

We walked, photographed, experimented and enjoyed the festive atmosphere at our own pace. There was no formal programme to follow and no pressure to achieve a particular photographic result. We simply enjoyed being there.

Looking back, the most memorable part of the evening may not have been any single photograph. It was the experience of walking through the streets, exchanging smiles with strangers, discovering unexpected scenes in the alleys and sharing the journey with good company.

“Sometimes, the company we keep is more meaningful than the subject we are chasing through our viewfinder.” – said AL.

And perhaps that is one of the best things about photography: beyond the images we bring home, it gives us a reason to explore, connect with people and create memories along the way.

Keen to join our walks? Click here to join our Whatapps Group!!

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Contributing Editor – Melody Tan

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Art, Camera, little-india, Ourshutterjourney, Photography, Shutter Journey Singapore, travel, writing | Leave a comment

A Visit to Eco Mama Photography Adventure

Posted on October 15, 2026 by Editor AL

A Visit to Eco Mama Photography Adventure
– Text by Lee Shi Qing & AL Lee

03rd October 2026 – Shutter Journey Singapore recently visited Takahan Tan’s Toy Photography Exhibition at City Square Mall, Singapore, and it was an enjoyable outing filled with creativity, imagination and plenty of fun!

Takahan welcomed our group and gave us a presentation on his exhibited works, sharing the inspirations and ideas behind his toy photography. It was a wonderful opportunity for our members to gain a better understanding of his creative process and how ordinary toy figures can be transformed into interesting photographic subjects through storytelling, composition and imagination.

One of the highlights was ECO Mama, the official mascot of City Square Mall, representing the mall’s mission to promote sustainability. Through its character and messaging, ECO Mama helps bring environmental awareness to visitors in a fun and engaging way.

Takahan’s exhibition was part of the Anime Earth Roadshow, held at the Level 1 Atrium of City Square Mall on 3 and 4 October 2026.

Beyond the toy photography exhibition, the venue was filled with numerous anime-themed stalls and cosplayers showcasing their favourite characters. The colourful displays, creative costumes and lively crowd gave the event an almost carnival-like atmosphere.

There was plenty to see and enjoy, making it an interesting experience not only for anime fans but also for photography enthusiasts looking for inspiration and new subjects to capture.

For our Shutter Journey members, the visit was also a chance to appreciate a different side of photography. Toy photography is a creative genre that combines miniature subjects with imagination and visual storytelling, reminding us that photography is not limited to landscapes, wildlife or street scenes. Sometimes, a little toy and a creative idea are all it takes to create an engaging image.

A big thank you to Takahan Tan for hosting Shutter Journey Singapore and taking the time to share his work, inspirations and experiences with us.

It was an enjoyable visit filled with creative ideas, colourful characters and a lively atmosphere. We look forward to more opportunities to explore different photography genres, learn from fellow creatives and discover new ways to tell stories through our cameras.

Thank you once again, Takahan, for sharing your creative world with Shutter Journey Singapore!

Keen to join our walks? Click here to join our Whatapps Group!!

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Contributing Editor – Lee Shi Qing

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

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About Ourshutterjourney.com
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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Allan Lee, Art, books, city-square-mall, History, Ourshutterjourney, Photography, Shutter Journey Singapore, takahan-tan, writing | 1 Comment

Macro at Mount Faber

Posted on October 15, 2026 by Editor AL

Macro at Mount Faber
– Text by Melody Tan & Editor AL

20th September 2026, Singapore – Mount Faber has been one of my familiar locations for macro photography over the years, but most of my visits have been during the late afternoons or at night. This time, I decided to make a morning trip to hunt for and photograph some of the little creatures hidden among the vegetation.

Unfortunately, the weather and air conditions were far from ideal. The haze had been getting progressively worse, and at the time of writing, it was particularly bad. Despite the thick vegetation along the trail, the air felt heavy and the high humidity made the morning even more uncomfortable.

I began my ascent via Marang Trail, a popular route for people heading up Mount Faber. Despite the haze, there were still plenty of people out enjoying their morning walks and getting some exercise.

For this outing, I brought along my usual macro photography setup: the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, paired with the M.Zuiko 60mm Macro lens and Olympus Twin Flash. Thankfully, the setup was relatively light and manageable, which made it easier to carry while climbing.

However, the climb itself was another story!

The combination of the uphill trail, thick humidity and hazy conditions made the ascent much more exhausting than I had anticipated. I found myself struggling to catch my breath and perspiring heavily along the way. By the time I finally reached the peak, I was drenched in sweat and feeling thoroughly fatigued.

It was certainly a reminder that macro photography outings are not always just about cameras, lenses and finding interesting subjects. Sometimes, getting to the location can be a workout in itself!

Despite the challenging conditions, I still managed to spot and photograph a few little creatures along the way. That was, after all, the main purpose of the trip.

Mount Faber’s vegetation provides plenty of places for insects and other tiny creatures to hide, and a careful search can sometimes reveal interesting subjects that most visitors would simply walk past.

Unfortunately, given how exhausted I was after the climb, I decided not to spend too much time exploring and made my way back down shortly after. There was little point in pushing myself further when the conditions were already so uncomfortable.

Looking back, the morning outing was certainly more physically demanding than I had expected. While the lightweight Olympus setup helped, the heat, humidity and haze made the experience a real test of endurance.

Perhaps on my next visit, I should consider hiring a support crew to carry a portable fan, bottles of drinks and all the other necessities while I concentrate on photographing the little ones!

Just kidding!

Jokes aside, this outing reminded me that while the excitement of macro photography can keep us going, our health and safety should always come first. With the haze and uncomfortable weather conditions, sometimes the best decision is to call it a day.

There will always be another opportunity to return to Mount Faber and continue the hunt for those elusive little creatures — hopefully on a cooler, clearer morning!

Keen to join our walks? Click here to join our Whatapps Group!!

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Contributing Editor – Melody Tan

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Allan Lee, hiking, Macro, mountains, nature, Ourshutterjourney, Photography, Shutter Journey Singapore, travel | Leave a comment

Macro at Learning Forest

Posted on October 15, 2026 by Editor AL

Macro at Learning Forest
– Text by Lee Shi Qing & AL Lee

12th Sep 2026, Singapore – Shutter Journey recently returned to Learning Forest at the Singapore Botanic Gardens for a two-part macro photography walk, covering both the evening and night sessions. Learning Forest has always been one of our favourite locations for macro photography, as we can almost always count on finding a wide variety of insects and other tiny creatures during our visits.

This outing was also a special milestone for us, marking our 53rd macro photography visit to the Singapore Botanic Gardens since 2009. Over the years, the gardens have continued to offer countless opportunities for our members to explore nature through their macro lenses, discover new subjects and sharpen their photography skills.

One of the interesting aspects of organising an evening and night macro walk is the opportunity to explore two different periods of insect activity.

During the evening session, we searched for insects returning from their daytime activities and those still moving around among the vegetation as daylight faded. As darkness gradually set in, the environment changed, and we began looking for nocturnal insects that emerge after sunset to hunt, feed or carry on with their nightly activities.

The transition from evening to night offers a different perspective on the same environment. Subjects that were relatively easy to spot earlier may become harder to find, while other creatures begin to appear. For macro photographers, this means adapting to changing conditions, observing carefully and being ready to capture whatever nature presents.

For this outing, I took the opportunity to practise using the Olympus Close-Up Filter with my Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and Olympus Twin Flash setup.

It turned out to be a rather challenging experience. Adding the close-up filter changed the minimum focusing distance considerably, and getting the subject into focus required much more patience than I had anticipated. I often had to make repeated focusing adjustments and take several shots before managing to secure a usable image.

Working at such close distances leaves very little room for error. Even a slight movement of the camera or subject can affect the result, making it important to control both the focusing distance and camera position carefully.

Clearly, there is still plenty for me to learn about using this setup effectively. More practice will be needed before I can become comfortable with the close-up filter and make the most of its capabilities. Nevertheless, experimenting with unfamiliar equipment is part of the learning process, and every outing provides valuable experience.

Considering Singapore’s recent hot and humid weather, we were pleasantly surprised that there were not many mosquitoes during our walk. Thankfully, our group was spared the usual mosquito bites that can sometimes accompany outdoor activities after dark.

We also experienced occasional light breezes along the way, making the walk a little more comfortable despite the humidity.

Overall, it was another enjoyable outing for Shutter Journey. Returning to a familiar location does not necessarily mean repeating the same experience. By exploring at different times of the day and experimenting with new equipment, we continue to discover fresh photographic opportunities.

Our 53rd macro visit to the Singapore Botanic Gardens is another reminder of why we keep coming back. There is always something new to find when we take the time to look closely at the natural world — whether under the evening light or in the darkness of night.

Keen to join our walks? Click here to join our Whatapps Group!!

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Contributing Editor – Lee Shi Qing

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

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About Ourshutterjourney.com
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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Allan Lee, Camera, cameras, flowers, Macro, nature, Ourshutterjourney, Photography, Shutter Journey Singapore | Leave a comment

The Return to Yunnan Gardens

Posted on October 15, 2026 by Editor AL

The Return to Yunnan Gardens
– Text by Melody Tan & Editor AL

30th August 2026, Singapore – It had been quite some time since my last visit to Yunnan Gardens at Nanyang Technological University (NTU). Well known among macro photography enthusiasts for its abundance of caterpillars, spiders and other tiny creatures, the garden remains an interesting location for anyone who enjoys exploring the fascinating miniature world of insects.

For this outing, I decided to bring along my macro photography gear and experiment with the Olympus Close-Up Filter. I mounted the filter onto my Olympus M.Zuiko 60mm Macro lens, paired with the OM-1 camera body and Olympus Twin Flash. It was a good opportunity to explore how the close-up filter could enhance my macro photography setup and help me capture these tiny subjects in greater detail.

Morning is usually a good time to explore the garden, when many insects can still be found actively moving among the leaves and vegetation. With my equipment ready, I began walking through the garden, keeping a close eye on the plants and foliage for any interesting subjects.

My favourite spot has always been the eastern section of Yunnan Gardens. In fact, I would estimate that around 90% of my macro photographs taken here were captured in this particular area. It is a productive location for insect photography, and there always seems to be something interesting waiting to be discovered if you take the time to look carefully.

As usual, I came across familiar subjects such as caterpillars and shield bugs. However, one thing that stood out during this visit was the noticeably greater number of spiders compared with my previous outings. These little creatures offered plenty of opportunities to observe their behaviour and experiment with different compositions and shooting angles.

Macro photography has a way of changing how we see our surroundings. What might appear to be an ordinary patch of greenery at first glance can become an entirely different world when viewed through a macro lens.

A closer look reveals intricate patterns, delicate body structures and fascinating details that are easily overlooked in our daily lives. Even familiar insects can become interesting photographic subjects when we pay attention to their movements, textures and interactions with their surroundings.

Having the Olympus Close-Up Filter mounted on my 60mm Macro lens also made this outing an opportunity to experiment with my equipment. Beyond simply photographing the insects, I wanted to see how the additional close-up capability would work with my existing setup, supported by the Olympus Twin Flash for lighting. Honestly, it takes a while to get used to it.

There were very few visitors in the garden during my walk, probably because I had arrived relatively early. The weather was already hot, and the combination of strong sunlight and high humidity made the morning feel rather warm and uncomfortable.

Perhaps these conditions contributed to the quieter atmosphere, although the early hour was likely another factor. For macro photographers, however, a quieter garden can be a welcome advantage. With fewer distractions around, it becomes easier to slow down, concentrate on the surroundings and search for those tiny subjects hidden among the leaves.

Despite the heat and humidity, the outing was worthwhile. The familiar caterpillars and shield bugs were there, while the greater number of spiders added an unexpected element to the morning’s discoveries.

Yunnan Gardens continues to be one of my preferred locations for macro photography. Every visit offers a chance to discover something new, experiment with equipment and appreciate the remarkable diversity of life that exists in even the smallest corners of nature.

Sometimes, all it takes is a macro lens, a little patience and a closer look at the world around us.

Getting here is easy, use the overhead bridge over PIE from Block 910, Jurong West Street 91.

Keen to join our walks? Click here to join our Whatapps Group!!

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Contributing Editor – Melody Tan

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Allan Lee, flowers, insects, melody-tan, nature, Ourshutterjourney, Photography, Shutter Journey Singapore, travel | Leave a comment

Exploring Woodleigh/Bidadari Park

Posted on September 10, 2026 by Editor AL

Exploring Woodleigh/Bidadari Park
– Text by Melody Tan & Editor AL

10th September 2026, Singapore – 02 weeks ago, the group visited Woodleigh/Bidadari Park. The photography focus for this visit was Macro Photography & Bird Photography (Birding). This is fairly a new park as compared to other nature parks in Singapore. Many of you would know that this park used to be a huge cemetery and one of the oldest in Singapore.

But through the last few years – after the process of exhumation and growing trees and plants, the park was left to “grow & mature”. And with that, the park attracted lots of wild life and the park is now “semi-mature”, that had made the park very popular with visitors and nature lovers.

Park amenities are pretty standard with restrooms, water coolers, children playground, a mid-size pond, tracks, trails and boardwalk. But what the group was looking for are insects and birds. And there are a lot to discover.

There were indeed a lot of insects, we found quite a fair bit, some are common in other parks, while some are rare. We walked for 2 hours and only managed to complete 1/3 of the park. Then again, we are happy with all the insects that we found.

We picked the late afternoon instead of early morning for this visit. Weather is rather humid and hot these days and the park was surprisingly windy at many spots. In fact, this park is very comfortable even for a leisurely stroll.

Getting to this park is very convenient and it is located near to a MRT and a mall. Car park is too small with limited parking lots, and pretty hidden. Otherwise, this park is very friendly to visit.

Keen to join our walks? Click here to join our Whatapps Group!!

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Contributing Editor – Melody Tan

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

Chief Editor & Founder of Ourshutterjourney.com Worldwide and Principal Trainer at Ourshutterjourney Photography Academy. AL is a commercial photographer as well as an educator who believes in the art of digital memories. An ambassador of several photography brands, AL is well versed in many camera systems. Someone once told us AL’s man cave looks more like a camera store than a bedroom.

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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged birds, nature, Ourshutterjourney, Photography, Shutter Journey, travel, Wildlife | Leave a comment

Geylang East – Nearly Forgotten

Posted on August 31, 2026 by Editor AL

Geylang East – Nearly Forgotten
– Text by Lee Shi Qing & AL Lee

31st August 2026, Singapore — On a hot and sleepy afternoon, we found ourselves walking through Geylang East, an estate that may not immediately come to mind when one thinks about places to explore or photograph in Singapore.

Singapore is constantly changing. New developments rise where familiar places once stood, older buildings are renovated or replaced, and neighbourhoods gradually evolve with each generation. Amid this constant transformation, there are still estates that seem to move at a slower pace—quiet neighbourhoods that continue to serve the communities living within them, yet remain largely unnoticed by those passing through.

Geylang East feels like one of these places.
It is not a particularly large estate, nor does it have the attractions that usually draw crowds of visitors or photographers. There are no major shopping districts, iconic landmarks or famous tourist spots. Yet, as we walked through the neighbourhood, we began to realise that there was something interesting about its simplicity.

Our exploration took us through different generations of public housing blocks, each reflecting a different period in Singapore’s housing development. The changing architectural styles, void decks, corridors and open spaces provided an interesting backdrop for photography. Some areas felt familiar, while others seemed to carry a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of the Singapore neighbourhoods that many of us grew up with.

As we continued walking, we arrived at a small town centre where everyday life unfolded at its usual pace. There were various eateries serving residents, including a familiar McDonald’s outlet, alongside shops and services catering to the needs of the community. Nearby were a school and a public library, both important parts of the neighbourhood and reminders that an estate is more than just a collection of residential blocks.

The walk also brought us past two temples and into the surrounding industrial area. These different elements—homes, schools, places of worship, eateries and workplaces—came together to form the character of Geylang East. Although the estate may appear modest at first glance, it offers a glimpse into the everyday rhythm of life in a mature Singapore neighbourhood.

By late afternoon, the light began to change.

Between approximately 4:00pm and 5:30pm, the afternoon sun created longer and more interesting shadows across the estate. This was the time when the walk became more than just an exploration. Cameras were raised, compositions were considered, and ordinary scenes were transformed by the changing light.

The strong sunlight created lines and patterns across walls, walkways and public spaces. Shadows from buildings, railings and trees became part of the composition. We began looking at familiar elements from a different perspective, searching for moments where light, architecture and people came together.

In many ways, the photography outing became a combination of street photography and estate photography.

Street photography allowed us to observe the small, everyday moments taking place around us, while estate photography encouraged us to look more closely at the environment itself—the architecture, spaces, textures and details that give a neighbourhood its identity.

There was no need to search for dramatic scenes. Sometimes, the most interesting photographs came from simple moments: a quiet walkway, a row of ageing HDB blocks, the contrast between old and new architecture, or sunlight falling across an otherwise ordinary corner.

Geylang East may not be one of Singapore’s most talked-about neighbourhoods, but perhaps that is exactly what makes it interesting.

Despite its location near one of Singapore’s more notorious districts, the estate itself felt remarkably clean, peaceful and calm. Walking through the neighbourhood, we found little of the chaos or activity that one might expect from its geographical surroundings. Instead, there was a sense of everyday normality—residents going about their routines, people enjoying meals at the town centre and the quiet presence of homes, schools and community spaces.

Perhaps many Singapore estates are like this.

They may not appear in travel guides or regularly feature on social media, but they form an important part of Singapore’s urban landscape. These neighbourhoods tell stories of generations who have lived, worked, studied and grown up within their surroundings. Their significance may not always be immediately visible, but it can often be discovered simply by slowing down and taking the time to walk through them.

For photographers, places like Geylang East can also be an interesting reminder that photography does not always require travelling to famous locations. Sometimes, interesting stories can be found in the estates around us.

All that is required is curiosity.

As photographers, we often search for spectacular landscapes, dramatic architecture or unusual events. Yet there is also value in documenting the familiar. An ordinary neighbourhood today may become an important historical record tomorrow. Buildings may eventually be renovated or replaced, businesses may close, residents may move away, and the character of an estate may gradually change.

Photographs allow us to preserve these moments. They document not only what a place looks like, but also how it feels during a particular period of time. The afternoon light, the quiet walkways, the residents, the architecture and even the heat of a Singapore afternoon all become part of the story.

Despite the heat and humidity, we thoroughly enjoyed our walk through Geylang East. By the end of the afternoon, we had managed to document a fair number of images and, more importantly, gained a better appreciation for a neighbourhood that we might otherwise have overlooked.

Geylang East may not be a famous destination. It may not be a large estate. And for many Singaporeans, it may simply be another neighbourhood that they pass by without giving it much thought.

But sometimes, the places that are nearly forgotten are the ones that still have stories waiting to be discovered. And perhaps, all it takes is an afternoon walk, a camera in hand and a willingness to look a little closer.

Keen to join our walks? Click here to join our Whatapps Group!!

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Contributing Editor – Lee Shi Qing

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

Chief Editor & Founder of Ourshutterjourney.com Worldwide and Principal Trainer at Ourshutterjourney Photography Academy. AL is a commercial photographer as well as an educator who believes in the art of digital memories. An ambassador of several photography brands, AL is well versed in many camera systems. Someone once told us AL’s man cave looks more like a camera store than a bedroom.

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Aidha’s Unspoken Life Photography Exhibition 2026

Posted on August 19, 2026 by Editor AL

Aidha’s Unspoken Life Photography Exhibition 2026
– Text by Melody Tan

19th August 2026, Singapore – The Unspoken Life Photography Exhibition is a unique platform that showcases the artistic talents and perspectives of migrant domestic workers through their photography. The exhibition captures their journeys, challenges, and triumphs in an expressive and impactful manner.

Event Details:
Event Name: Unspoken Life Photography Exhibition 2026
Date: Friday, 4 September – Sunday, 6 September 2026
Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Location: Objectifs Gallery, 155 Middle Rd, Singapore 188977
Admission: Free and open to the public
Website: https://bit.ly/AidhaUL2026
Social: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DEHFDrQf5/

Members are encouraged to visit this interesting exhibition!

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Contributing Editor – Melody Tan

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Inaugural ‘Your Canon Event’ Empowers Singapore’s Maker Communities and Spotlights Visual Talent

Posted on July 31, 2026 by Editor AL

Inaugural ‘Your Canon Event’ Empowers Singapore’s Maker Communities and Spotlights Visual Talent – Text by Melody Tan

An immersive maker festival that showcased talent in visual storytelling and brought together over 1,500
attendees, demonstrating how Canon empowers every kind of creative pursuit, ranging from plant styling and miniature painting to tabletop gaming, all in the spirit of kyosei.

31st July 2026, Singapore – Canon Singapore announced on 25th July 2026 on the successful conclusion of Your Canon Event, an experiential maker festival that brought together over 1,500 attendees to Urban Park @ Guoco Tower.

The weekend festival featured the landmark 20th Canon PhotoMarathon photography and inaugural video storytelling competition, paired with hands-on workshops, experiential play zone, and community-led activities spanning hobbies as varied as botany, tabletop gaming, and miniature model painting.

“With ‘Your Canon Event’, we set out to redefine what a modern maker festival could look like, and reflect how creators engage with imaging today,” said Too Kok Yong, Head of Singapore Operations Group, Canon Singapore.

He added: “We seek to create a collaborative space where Singapore’s vibrantcreator communities could celebrate their distinct passions and engage in visual storytelling, in the spirit of kyosei—living and working together for the common good. Seeing so many creators connect these diverse hobbies with our PowerShot V Series and EOS V Series, alongside the incredible milestones of our 20th Canon PhotoMarathon, underscores our commitment to empowering creators
at every stage of their journey.”

Nurturing the Next Generation: The 20th Canon PhotoMarathon

Returning with high stakes, the 20th Canon PhotoMarathon challenged visual storytellers across Singapore to capture compelling visual stories under themes and time constraints, culminating in an official judging process evaluated by a panel of six esteemed industry experts including three judges for the inaugural video category.

One of the judges of the video edition, Dylan Chia, The Sticker Guy from DCHTOONS, said,

“What struck me about the Open Category was how differently people interpreted Kyosei. I believe Kyosei is all about human connection, but the winning film took a different approach. It first started with nature, then connected it back to people. It’s nice to see that harmony didn’t begin with us, but rather beginning with nature that was here before us. The third place also deserves a shoutout. They broke the fourth wall by having people point and gesture to the camera, and that made their message about human connection stick with me.”

Themes included vibrant, value and voice, which saw participants travelling around Singapore to capture the shot that best represents the theme. Open Category Winner, Mohd Safuan bin Salahudin said,

“Winning Canon PhotoMarathon for the third time is something I didn’t expect, especially after spending the day shooting in the rain. For the ‘Voice’ theme, I wanted to try something different instead of going with the obvious human interpretation, and focused on capturing expression in a unique way. Competitions like this remind me that some of the best photographs come from slowing down, noticing the little details around you and not being afraid to see things differently.”

A standout highlight of this milestone edition was the amazing turnout in the Youth Category, specifically designated for creators aged 25 years and below. This category spotlighted a surging wave of Gen Z and younger talent who brought fresh perspectives to the competition’s themes— including the dedicated video category on Kyosei, which challenged participants to capture stories of community, sustainability, and social harmony. #iamkyosei is a celebration of self-expression, interactivity, and integrity that defines today’s youth. Rooted in Canon’s corporate philosophy of Kyosei, Canon Singapore celebrates the young generation’s fresh outlook and purpose-driven approach to life through this campaign.

APSN also returned to participate in Canon PhotoMarathon, continuing its long-standing partnership with Canon Singapore. The relationship between Canon Singapore and APSN, a social service agency that supports individuals with mild intellectual disability, dates back to 2006. The partnership includes specially designed workshops to sharpen the APSN students’ technical skills, loaning of imaging equipment and organisation of guided photo outings led by Canon Singapore staff volunteers. This continued participation reflects the shared commitment of Canon Singapore and APSN to making photography more accessible and creating opportunities for youths with mild intellectual disability to express their creativity.

Beyond the Competition: A Maker Festival Built Around the EOS/PowerShot V series

This year’s Canon PhotoMarathon was surrounded by a full festival programme of hands-on stations, from postcard making Play Lab to craft workshops, designed to show how imaging technology fits into everyday creative hobbies. Throughout the festival grounds, attendees experienced firsthand how Canon’s compact and agile EOS/PowerShot V series seamlessly integrates into specialised lifestyle workflows.

Alongside, local plant design studio Soilboy led community workshops focused on the dual art of plant styling and macro photography. Attendees utilised the nimble form factors of the EOS/PowerShot V series to capture the organic textures of curated greenery under varying settings. Meanwhile, a dedicated miniature painting zone allowed hobbyists to test the macro capabilities and crisp colour science of Canon’s cameras.

About Canon Singapore Pte. Ltd.
Canon is a global leader in photographic and digital imaging solutions. Canon Singapore Pte. Ltd. is the headquarters for South & Southeast Asia driving sales, marketing and service strategies. Besides handling the domestic market, the company covers 22 other countries and regions. The parent company Canon Inc. has a global network of more than 300 companies and employs about 165,000 people worldwide. Canon is guided by its kyosei philosophy that focuses on living and working together for the common good.

More information is available at https://sg.canon.

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Contributing Editor – Melody Tan

Loves quiet walks along beaches, has a mind of her own and decides everything in life in either black or white with nothing in between. Her priority these days revolves around her 2 lovely kids & teaching them music or photography. A lover of yoga and an avid traveler, Melody aims to visit at least 30 countries before she reach 40 years old – from what we know, she had completed 35 as of 2025.

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Eco Mama Photography Adventure

Posted on July 30, 2026 by Editor AL

Eco Mama Photography Adventure
– Text by Melody Tan

Date: 29 August 2026 | Venue: City Square Mall

Eco Mama Photography Adventure organised by Singapore Cosplay Club (SCC) makes its
debut on 29 August. Featuring CSM’s adorable sustainability mascot, Eco Mama, this
photography adventure is a monthly recurring programme.

Through a guided photography
challenge, participants will accompany Eco Mama on a storytelling adventure through CSM
and learn all about sustainable habits we can all adopt.

The 3-hour long programme is conducted by visual storytelling educator and creator of
Takahan Toy Art Museum, Takahan Tan, who will be imparting fundamentals of photography
and visual storytelling skills. Participants can put their new found skills to use in fun
team-based challenges that will bring them on a unique adventure throughout CSM.

Prior photography experience is not required, and participants are welcome to use their
smartphones or cameras, as long as the equipment is accessible to them.

To sign up, follow @citysquaremall on either Facebook or Instagram for more information.

About Eco Mama
Eco Mama is the beloved mascot of City Square Mall, embodying the mall’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. As a friendly and cheerful green globe character, Eco Mama inspires visitors of all ages to embrace eco-conscious habits and make small, meaningful choices that contribute to a greener future.

Through interactive appearances, engaging performances, educational activities, and community events, Eco Mama encourages families and children to learn about recycling, conservation, and sustainable living in a fun and memorable way. More than just a mascot, Eco Mama represents City Square Mall’s vision of creating a vibrant, environmentally responsible community where everyone can play a part in protecting our planet for future generations.

About City Square Mall
Located in the heart of Singapore at the junction of Serangoon and Kitchener Roads, City Square Mall is Singapore’s first eco-friendly family mall, seamlessly connected to Farrer Park MRT station and adjacent to the historic Little India precinct. Home to over 200 retail, dining, and lifestyle outlets, the mall offers a vibrant destination where families, residents, and visitors can shop, dine, and connect.

Designed with sustainability at its core, City Square Mall incorporates numerous environmentally friendly features, including energy-efficient building systems, water conservation initiatives, recycling programmes, and the 49,000-square-foot City Green urban park, providing visitors with a unique eco-learning experience. Guided by its vision to be the leading eco-friendly family mall, City Square Mall continues to create engaging community spaces and meaningful experiences that promote sustainable living while offering a welcoming environment for all.

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Contributing Editor – Melody Tan

Loves quiet walks along beaches, has a mind of her own and decides everything in life in either black or white with nothing in between. Her priority these days revolves around her 2 lovely kids & teaching them music or photography. A lover of yoga and an avid traveler, Melody aims to visit at least 30 countries before she reach 40 years old – from what we know, she had completed 35 as of 2025.

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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged adventure, Art, asia, city-square-mall, lifestyle, Ourshutterjourney, takahan-tan, travel | Leave a comment

Rediscovering River Wonders

Posted on July 29, 2026 by Editor AL

Rediscovering River Wonders
– Text by Melody Tan

29th July 2026, Singapore -A Morning with Wildlife & Super Telephoto Lenses – It had been quite some time since our last visit to River Wonders—formerly known as River Safari—before its rebranding. With many of us curious to see what had changed, we organised a photography outing to revisit one of Singapore’s unique wildlife attractions.

The trip also provided the perfect opportunity for members who own super telephoto lenses but seldom have the chance to use them. River Wonders offers excellent opportunities to photograph animals from a comfortable distance, making it an ideal place to practise handling long lenses, improve tracking techniques, and experiment with wildlife photography.

To make the most of the day, we arrived shortly after the park opened. It turned out to be a wise decision. While the crowd at the neighbouring Singapore Zoo was already building rapidly, River Wonders remained relatively quiet during the early morning hours. Apart from a few tour groups, the park was peaceful and allowed us to photograph the animals without having to compete with large crowds.

No visit to River Wonders would be complete without paying a visit to its most famous residents—Kai Kai and Jia Jia, Singapore’s beloved giant pandas. Despite the recent social media craze surrounding capybaras, the panda enclosure continues to be one of the park’s biggest attractions, drawing visitors from around the world eager to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants.No visit to River Wonders would be complete without paying a visit to its most famous residents—Kai Kai and Jia Jia, Singapore’s beloved giant pandas. Despite the recent social media craze surrounding capybaras, the panda enclosure continues to be one of the park’s biggest attractions, drawing visitors from around the world eager to catch a glimpse of these gentle giants.

As photographers, however, we soon realised that River Wonders offers far more than just pandas. From colourful birds and playful primates to aquatic wildlife and lesser-known species, every corner of the park presented another opportunity to test our equipment and capture nature through our lenses.

Overall, it was an enjoyable and productive outing—one that reminded us that sometimes the best way to improve our photography is simply to head outdoors, spend time with fellow enthusiasts, and rediscover familiar places with fresh eyes.

Missed this outing? Join our Events Whatapps Group today!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged adventure, blog, Ourshutterjourney, Photography, photography-group, Shutter Journey Singapore, travel, Wildlife | Leave a comment

Return to Genting Nature Adventures – A Journey Through Nature’s Success Story

Posted on July 20, 2026 by Editor AL

Return to Genting Nature Adventures – A Journey Through Nature’s Success Story
– Text by AL Lee

10-11th July 2026, Malaysia – We returned to Genting Nature Adventures (GNA)—formerly known as Awana Nature Trails—for what marked our third visit to this remarkable nature reserve. Since our last visit, GNA has undergone an impressive transformation. The new visitor centre is significantly larger, featuring interactive displays, educational exhibits, and spacious facilities capable of accommodating bigger groups of visitors and nature enthusiasts.

Behind this inspiring conservation effort are Eddie Chan and his wife, the visionary duo whose passion and dedication have made GNA one of Malaysia’s leading eco-tourism and biodiversity destinations. Their commitment to restoring and protecting nature has earned both national and international recognition.

Some of GNA’s recent achievements include:
– 128,028 CBKVs recorded as of 11 July 2026
– Global Impact Awards 2026 – Global Leadership Excellence Award for Environmental Sustainability & Bio-Tourism Development
– ASEAN Green Stewardship Tourism Award 2026
– TDM Travel Trade Excellence Award 2025 – ESG Initiative of the Year (Malaysia)

Having first visited the reserve in 2022, followed by another trip in 2024, we have had the privilege of witnessing its incredible evolution. Hundreds of native trees have been replanted, habitats have matured beautifully, biodiversity has flourished, and new trails have been developed, making the reserve more accessible and enjoyable for visitors of all ages.

As Eddie aptly shared:

“This International Day for Biodiversity serves as a reminder that meaningful environmental change begins at the local level. Through collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility, we can help build a more sustainable future for generations to come.”

One of the most memorable moments of this visit came as a complete surprise. We were honoured to discover that GNA had installed an outdoor display board along one of the trails featuring photographs from our previous visits and acknowledging our photography group for our continued support in documenting insects and biodiversity. Seeing our group’s contributions recognised in such a meaningful way was both humbling and deeply rewarding. It is a memory that we will treasure for years to come.

This expedition was planned as a two-day adventure, allowing us to explore two different trails within the reserve. The results exceeded our expectations. We encountered numerous insect species that we had never documented before, and it was encouraging to observe a significant increase in both species diversity and population compared to our previous visits. This is a strong indication that the ecosystem is continuing to recover and mature.

Many of the insects displayed astonishing colours and patterns that we never imagined existed. Some species were completely unfamiliar to us and have never been encountered in Singapore, making the experience even more exciting for our photography team.

Wanna see more? View the full album here.

To top it all off, GNA treated us like VIP guests by arranging buggy transport back to the visitor centre after our long hikes on both days—a thoughtful gesture that was greatly appreciated after hours of exploring the forest.

Our heartfelt thanks go to Eddie Chan, his wife, and the entire team at Genting Nature Adventures for their warm hospitality and unwavering dedication to conservation. Your work is creating an extraordinary legacy for future generations while demonstrating that responsible eco-tourism and biodiversity conservation can go hand in hand.

Back in Singapore, we will continue sharing GNA’s remarkable conservation story with fellow photographers, nature lovers, and travellers. We hope that more people will visit this incredible reserve, experience its beauty firsthand, and support the meaningful work being done here.

Thank you, Genting Nature Adventures. We’ll definitely be back again!

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

Chief Editor & Founder of Ourshutterjourney.com Worldwide and Principal Trainer at Ourshutterjourney Photography Academy. AL is a commercial photographer as well as an educator who believes in the art of digital memories. An ambassador of several photography brands, AL is well versed in many camera systems. Someone once told us AL’s man cave looks more like a camera store than a bedroom.

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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged birds, genting-nature-adventures, macro-photography, nature, Photography, resort-world-genting, Shutter Journey Singapore, travel, Wildlife | Leave a comment

Yashica Tank Camera Review

Posted on July 17, 2026 by Editor AL

Yashica Tank Camera Review
– Reviewed by AL Lee & Serene Ong

17th July 2026, Singapore-Malaysia – In late June 2026, while casually browsing social media, an advertisement for Yashica cameras caught my attention. Out of curiosity, I clicked on it and was pleasantly surprised to discover that Yashica is back with a new range of digital cameras.

Most of you know that I own a Yashica MG-1 rangefinder, a camera that was passed down to me by my father. Restoring it to working condition was a meaningful journey, and it remains one of the most treasured pieces in my camera collection. So, seeing the Yashica name re-emerge in the digital era naturally sparked my interest.

One model, in particular, stood out—the Yashica Tank. Its retro-inspired design immediately reminded me of the classic Yashica cameras I had grown up admiring. Without much hesitation, I decided to place an order.

The camera was shipped directly from Hong Kong and arrived at my doorstep in less than ten days. As someone who appreciates both vintage cameras and modern photography, I was eager to find out whether the Yashica Tank was more than just a nostalgic revival. Could it live up to the legacy of a brand that many photographers still remember fondly?

Let’s find out.

The package arrived well protected, and I was pleased to see that it had survived the journey from Hong Kong without a single dent or crease on the box. For collectors and photography enthusiasts, that’s always a reassuring first impression.

Opening the retail box felt a little like Christmas morning. Yashica didn’t just include the camera—they packed it with plenty of thoughtful accessories and freebies. Inside, you’ll find the Yashica Tank Camera, a battery, a dedicated protective pouch, a USB charging cable, a card reader, a wrist strap, and all the necessary documentation to get started.

To my surprise, Yashica also included a generous selection of branded merchandise, including Yashica keychains, phone tabs, stickers, and several other collectibles. It’s a small touch, but it adds to the overall unboxing experience and gives buyers the feeling that they’re joining the Yashica community rather than simply purchasing another camera.

The unboxing experience was genuinely enjoyable. It was clear that Yashica had put thought into creating a memorable first impression, and before I had even powered on the camera, I already felt that I had received more than just a digital compact—it felt like opening a gift.

The shipping package was well packed and the box survived the journey without any dents. Inside the retail box, it was full of goodies. You get the Yashica Tank Camera, a dedicated Pouch, a Card Reader, Charging Cable, Hand-strap, paperwork, many freebies like Yashica keychains, phone tabs, Yashica stickers etc. It felt like Christmas.

To put the Yashica Tank through its paces, we brought it along on our Macro Expedition 2026 to Genting Highlands, Malaysia. Rather than testing it in a controlled environment, we wanted to see how it would perform in real-world conditions. Throughout the trip, the camera became our everyday companion, capturing everything from scenic landscapes and street scenes to food and architecture, whenever the opportunity arose.

Image: Serene posing with the Yashica Tank at Genting Highlands.

Travelling with the Yashica Tank also allowed us to evaluate its portability, ease of use, battery performance, autofocus, and image quality across different lighting conditions—from the bright daylight outdoors to the cooler, dimly lit environments of Genting Highlands. After several days of continuous shooting, we had a good understanding of what the camera does well and where it falls short.

The Yashica Tank Camera is one of those cameras that immediately catches your attention with its unique design. Inspired by classic Yashica film cameras, it combines a retro aesthetic with modern digital convenience, making it appealing to casual photographers, travellers, and content creators looking for something different.

One of the camera’s biggest strengths is its compact and rugged build. It feels solid in the hand and is designed to withstand everyday use, making it an ideal companion for travel, outdoor adventures, or simply documenting daily life. The vintage styling also makes it a conversation starter wherever you go.

This little Yashica Tank is small & compact, measuring just 100 × 20 × 55 mm and weights only 105gm, this highly portable feather weight camera can fit any pocket easily. The buttons layout are easy to navigate and it reminded me of Fujifilm. I personally like the 3.0-inch 16:9 LCD (180° flip screen).

Inside the camera, it comes with a 1/2.8-inch CMOS sensor features a crop factor of approximately \(7.6\times\) compared to a standard 35mm full-frame sensor. Therefore, its 4.05 mm F1.8 lens with this sensor size yields a 35mm equivalent focal length of roughly 31mm which is highly usable. The camera also allows user to choose between 36mp, 24mp & 12mp for image quality.

The Yashica Tank autofocuses from 10cm to ∞ and supports ISO 100 to 6400. There is EV compensation at ±3 EV, standard White Balance like Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent and what we like most are the 11 built-in creative filters. However for the purpose of this review, we set the camera WB to Auto and No filter was used for the review. And instead of a built in Flash, the Yashica Tank included a strong & power LED light in place of the flash. The flash can also be used as a constant light in video mode. Lastly, this camera uses a Micro SD Card, and the manufacturer recommends using a Class 10/U3 card.

Let’s check out the photos!

Image quality is respectable in good lighting conditions. Colours are vibrant, and the camera delivers a nostalgic look that many users will appreciate. While it won’t compete with high-end mirrorless or DSLR cameras in terms of detail or low-light performance, that’s not really its purpose. The Yashica Tank is designed to be fun, easy to use, and encourage spontaneous photography.

The user interface is straightforward, making it suitable even for beginners. Switching between photo and video modes is simple, and the controls are intuitive enough that you can start shooting almost immediately without reading a lengthy manual.

However, there are a few compromises. Autofocus can occasionally be slow in challenging lighting, and low-light image quality shows noticeable noise. Battery life is adequate for casual outings, but heavy users may want to carry a power bank or spare battery if possible. Yes, you can charge the Yashica Tank with a Power Bank, it works! (Type C port)

Overall, the Yashica Tank Camera is not about chasing perfect technical specifications. Instead, it focuses on delivering an enjoyable shooting experience wrapped in a stylish retro package. If you’re looking for a fun everyday camera that stands out from smartphones and embraces the charm of photography, the Yashica Tank is well worth considering.

Our Rating for the Yashica Tank: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Pros
– Attractive retro design
– Compact and rugged construction
– Easy to operate
– Good colour reproduction in daylight
– Fun camera for everyday photography

Cons
– Average low-light performance
– Autofocus can be inconsistent in difficult lighting
– Not intended for professional photography

Our Verdict:
The Yashica Tank Camera is best suited for enthusiasts who value creativity and portability over absolute image quality. It captures the spirit of classic photography while offering the convenience of digital technology, making it an enjoyable camera to carry and use every day.

Wanna get one? Order yours here.

See the full album from the Yashica Tank here.

A parting shot –
Here’s a behind-the-scene photo of Contributing Editor – Serene – in action with the Yashica Tank.

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About Chief Editor AL Lee

Chief Editor & Founder of Ourshutterjourney.com Worldwide and Principal Trainer at Ourshutterjourney Photography Academy. AL is a commercial photographer as well as an educator who believes in the art of digital memories. An ambassador of several photography brands, AL is well versed in many camera systems. Someone once told us AL’s man cave looks more like a camera store than a bedroom.

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Contributing Review Editor – Serene Ong

Started photography with a strong affinity in Long Exposure and Macro, Serene has created a following under the name of “Serene Digital Crafts”. She is an experimental photographer who will keep trying until she gets the shots that she had envisioned on her mind. Of a joyful character and friendly personality, Serene had started to contribute to gear review during her free time over the last few years.

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Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Camera, cameras, Film, film-photography, Ourshutterjourney, Photography, Shutter Journey Singapore, Yashica, yashica-tank | Leave a comment

Ourshutterjourney has been recognised as a Company of Good 2026–2028 by NVPC

Posted on July 8, 2026 by Editor AL

Ourshutterjourney LLP has been recognised as a Company of Good 2026–2028 by the National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre (NVPC).
– Text by Melody Tan

20th July 2026, Singapore – We are delighted to share that Ourshutterjourney LLP has been conferred & recognised as a Company of Good 2026–2028 by the National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre (NVPC). Ourshutterjourney LLP manages Ourshutterjourney Events, Ourshutterjourney Photography Academy and the FB Group Shutter Journey Singapore. (See All Entities here)

This recognition belongs not only to the organisation but to every SJS volunteer who has generously contributed their time, skills, passion, and heart to our mission. Through the art of photography, the volunteers have helped tell meaningful stories, captured precious moments, and made a positive difference in the lives of many individuals and communities.

We are incredibly proud to share this honour with all our SJS Volunteers. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment to serving others are the true reasons behind this achievement. Each photograph taken, every event supported, and every act of kindness shown has contributed to making Ourshutterjourney’s Volunteer Team a force for good.

Thank you NVPC for believing in our vision to create impact beyond the lens. This recognition is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together with a shared purpose of giving back to the community & the greater society.

Congratulations to our SJS Volunteers Team and thank you everyone for being part of this incredible journey. You have truly earned this recognition.

Together, we continue to make a difference—one photograph, one story, and one life at a time. 📸❤️

SJS Volunteers Team
Lead – AL Lee (Allan Lee)
Member – Serene Ong (O Se Re)
Member – Adelene Ng
Member – Eric Koh
Member – Jolene Fong
Member – Jasmine On

Thank YOU SJS Volunteers Team – You guys truly deserves this recognition for your contribution back to the community and society!

If you wish to be part of the SJS Volunteers Team, please email to ourshutterjourney@live.com.sg to enquire.

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged community, company-of-good, events, News, nvpc, Ourshutterjourney, Shutter Journey Singapore, travel, writing | Leave a comment

Prime Lens Challenge

Posted on June 29, 2026 by Editor AL

Prime Lens Challenge
– Text by Melody Tan

27th June 2026, Singapore – It’s been a long while since we did the “Prime Lens Challenge”. Previously known as part of Shutter Journey’s “Limited Series” – where photographers will be shooting with a set of given limitations – it is all about learning how to work around the challenges and still produce images that are acceptable.

We decided to do a 2-part shoot which included a visit to Asian Civilization Museum for Part 1 and after dinner, we did ToyArt as Part 2 along Singapore River.

For Part 1, I was using my new Insta360 Ace Pro 2 – since its a fixed focal length lens – and I tried my best to shoot with it. Low light performance was terrible, this little camera performed badly with mis-focused shots, super high ISO noise and at least half the images are not useable. A total disappointment.

Maybe the Insta360 Ace Pro2 was not designed for shooting in such a low light condition as opposed to what was claimed on the retail box where it screamed “Excellent Low Light Performance”, maybe I was too brave to try shooting in such a dark place with this camera.

Part 2 was more encouraging as I used the Smart Phone camera. We tried various lightings and using the lights from the opposite bank, we created bokehs, blue hour shots and lots of light play.

At least the images turned out fine.

Many tourists stopped and observed what we were doing. Ended up several of them also started shooting using their phones. We love to spread the ToyArt movement and hope to bring this art to more people.

It had been a tiring and long day, but importantly, everyone had fun!

Missed this outing? Join our Events Whatapps Group today!

Posted in Uncategorized | Tagged Camera, cameras, lens-artists, Lenses, Photography | Leave a comment

City Walk Returns – Remembering the Late Pang Teng Lin

Posted on June 15, 2026 by Editor AL

City Walk Returns – Remembering the Late Pang Teng Lin
– Text by Li Shi Qing

13th June 2026, Singapore – A special event by Shutter Journey Singapore – dedicated to the late Ms Pang Teng Lin. This event was designed to retrace the very same steps that Teng Lin had walked with our Founding Photographer & Chief Editor – AL Lee. It was an event focusing on street furnitures, murals, architectures and the streets of Singapore.

AL Lee first met Teng Lin on 13th May 2013 at a Canon EOS World event and AL was the Trainer. That event was organized in conjunction with AL’s conferration as one of the Canon EOS World Photographers of the Year 2013. It was a photowalk that spans close to 3km starting from Maxwell to Telok Ayer, from Ann Siang Hill to Chinatown before routing back to Maxwell.

***Image: 2013, Canon EOS World Event. Can you spot Teng Lin?***

***Image: Teng Lin’s work being exhibited at Little Red Dot Exhibition organized by Ourshutterjourney LLP & Capitol***

In 2013, Teng Lin was still very much at an exploration stage in photography and the theme of the event was street photography which interest her – she was noted to be asking a lot of questions which surprised AL – he added.

“She was very curious and inquisitive, this is good learning attitude.” – AL Lee

Teng Lin later followed AL to join Shutter Journey & PSS where AL was also teaching. She also took many private lessons from AL & eventually winning many awards through Shutter Journey’s Competition & had her work displayed at many Exhibitions organized by SJS.

Many photographers came to support this event and her Brother, Mr. Pang Teng Shin came too.
There was a short speech by AL as well Teng Shin before the event starts.

Some extracts as below;

“Although Teng Lin is no longer with us, her spirits in photography lives on with all of us.”
– AL Lee

“My sister started her photography journey and AL was her first photography teacher”
“She never stops exploring and learning”
– Teng Shin

During the outing, AL was retracing back Teng Lin’s exact route back in 2013, many of the spots looked vastly different, but many are still there. All the images in this article are the very same spots that Teng Lin had walked with AL in 2013.

It had been a really hot afternoon but everyone kept walking. In the name of photography, in the route of a memory, in the unwavering learning spirits of Teng Lin.

You may view Teng Lin’s Albums here. There were at least 50+ albums that were shot at Shutter Journey’s events.

This event was organized by SJS in memory of Teng Lin and her passion in Photography.

“Rest in Peace, Lin” – from All of us at Shutter Journey Singapore.

**Photo by AL Lee, which Teng Lin used as her FB Cover Photo till the very end.**

Missed this outing? Join our Events Whatapps Group today!

=========================
Contributing Editor – Lee Shi Qing

========================
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Macro at Jurong Lake Gardens

Posted on June 2, 2026 by Editor AL

Macro at Jurong Lake Gardens
– Text by Melody Tan

30th May 2026, Singapore – SJS made its return to Jurong Lake Gardens for a session of night macro. Similar to the recent outing at Thomson Nature Park, the park were swarmed by mosquitoes. Luckily the weather had been kind, there was no rain and it was not exactly hot that night.

One of the key things that we discovered was – many species were mating probably due to the heat. We found many mating insects.

It seems “everyone” were having a great time.

And also the usual suspects were all out that night.

It had been fun that night. If only the mosquitoes were out mating instead of feeding.

Missed this outing? Join our Events Whatapps Group today!

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ToyArt (Beach Theme)

Posted on May 27, 2026 by Editor AL

ToyArt (Beach Theme)
– Text by Li Shi Qing

16th May 2026, Singapore – Shutter Journey (Singapore) Photography Group is the pioneer for starting the ToyArt Movement back in 2004. This form of toy photography has always been challenging to most people as the real techniques are involving ratio-management and background selection for framing and composition – it is not just placing a toy and shoot. The group took ToyArt back to the beach recently and shoot based on a beach theme.

Although it was raining heavily before the event, everyone made it to the event and managed to shoot though the light drizzle before the rain came down heavy and the Trainer AL have to halt the event. And by then, everyone had already gotten all the shots that they wanted.

The dedication to learning is worth complimenting. The size of the figurines are already challenging and the beach sand also made it harder for everyone to get a good shot.

After many of the photographers had uploaded to our Facebook group as Homework Submission, many of the photos got reported by others who thought the toy figurines were real human and we were shooting NFT-style photo on a public beach. (We are still giggling).

Shallow as these people may be, it also means the photographers had done a great job and managed to shoot a toy figurine correctly to blend into the surrounding making the scene looking real yet unreal at the same time.

Missed this outing? Join our Events Whatapps Group today!

=========================
Contributing Editor – Lee Shi Qing

========================
About Ourshutterjourney.com
Visit Our Online Store
Join Our Membership.
=========================

Posted in Uncategorized | Leave a comment

SHUTTER JOURNEY SINGAPORE

Genting Nature Adventures (Awana) – A Wet and Rewarding Macro Photography Adventure

Shutter Journey Photo Appraisal Workshop 2026 – Learning Through Different Perspectives

Little India Deepavali Light-Up 2026 – Chasing Colours, People and Stories

A Visit to Eco Mama Photography Adventure

Macro at Mount Faber

Macro at Learning Forest

The Return to Yunnan Gardens

Exploring Woodleigh/Bidadari Park

Geylang East – Nearly Forgotten

Aidha’s Unspoken Life Photography Exhibition 2026

Inaugural ‘Your Canon Event’ Empowers Singapore’s Maker Communities and Spotlights Visual Talent

Eco Mama Photography Adventure

Rediscovering River Wonders

Return to Genting Nature Adventures – A Journey Through Nature’s Success Story

Yashica Tank Camera Review

Pros
– Attractive retro design
– Compact and rugged construction
– Easy to operate
– Good colour reproduction in daylight
– Fun camera for everyday photography

Cons
– Average low-light performance
– Autofocus can be inconsistent in difficult lighting
– Not intended for professional photography

Ourshutterjourney has been recognised as a Company of Good 2026–2028 by NVPC

Prime Lens Challenge

City Walk Returns – Remembering the Late Pang Teng Lin

Macro at Jurong Lake Gardens

ToyArt (Beach Theme)

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Pros– Attractive retro design– Compact and rugged construction– Easy to operate– Good colour reproduction in daylight– Fun camera for everyday photography

Cons– Average low-light performance– Autofocus can be inconsistent in difficult lighting– Not intended for professional photography

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Search This Site

Get Updates from this Site!

Trending Fast

Recent Posts

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Pros
– Attractive retro design
– Compact and rugged construction
– Easy to operate
– Good colour reproduction in daylight
– Fun camera for everyday photography

Cons
– Average low-light performance
– Autofocus can be inconsistent in difficult lighting
– Not intended for professional photography