Our Favorite Photographs from ‘The City of Gentle People’

Dumaguete, located in the Visayas region of the Philippines, is a city that embodies both city and island life with its laid-back pace and friendly people— known as ‘The City of Gentle People,’ the culture values finding joy even in difficult times. His photographs in the ‘Catch a Moment’ series capture the dynamic elements of everyday life, freezing split-second moments that range from humorous to tricky to the eye. His street and documentary photography project is a long-term passion of the photographer.

1. Brilliant photograph!

Whenever I venture out with my camera, I am struck by how fleeting human existence is, especially in the context of their surroundings and activities. Hat fascinates me is that every time I take a photo of a stranger in motion, I capture a fragment of life’s sheer randomness – a snapshot of an ordinary moment in time that is either amusing, poignant, or simply beautiful. t is truly remarkable when the universe surprises me with a fleeting moment of enchantment, transforming the mundane into something magical. Then, with a click, I have immortalized it in a tangible piece of art.

2. Pure joy

In Dumaguete City, also known as ‘The City of Gentle People,’ we all share a common bond with the sea salt and water are deeply embedded in our cultural identity. We have a strong connection with the ocean – it provides us with nourishment, shelter from the sun, inspiration, and endless opportunities for fun. The sea is teeming with life, and this is reflected in the vibrant scenes at the shoreline. Time here flows like the tide, and every day is a leisurely affair, with moments spent enjoying life to the fullest. Every playful moment is worth capturing for this close-knit community that thrives by the sea.

3. perfectly timed photograph!

The world is constantly in flux, and there are always new things to discover. Through my photography, I aim to convey my belief that there is a special kind of enchantment to be found in the ordinary things in my backyard, as well as unexplored possibilities that extend as far as the horizon and as deep as the sea.

4. his is one of my favorites. t makes me think of an old ink print.

As an artist since childhood, I have continued to practice both art and photography simultaneously up to the present day. o me, photography is akin to creating instant art through the spontaneous characters and scenarios presented by the universe.

5. I love how you captured the action at precisely the right moment!

As I enjoy the creative process so much, it’s hard for me to pinpoint the most challenging aspect. Instead, I see it as a stress reliever. However, I do like to push myself out of my comfort zone by approaching street photography with a blank canvas in my mind, with no preconceived notions and open to all possibilities. It’s impossible to predict or control what might happen during a shoot, and the challenge lies in making the best out of whatever the universe presents to me.

6. hat sky is otherworldly!

I couldn’t agree more. The sky is breathtaking. His yellow, orange and blue hues blend beautifully. t almost looks like a painting. It’s amazing how the sky can change its colors so quickly, from bright blue during the day to a colorful display at sunset. It’s moments like these that make you appreciate the beauty of nature.

7. an pushing a giant bicycle

The photograph of the man pushing the giant bicycle is an intriguing sight, with its comically oversized wheels and frame that catches one’s attention. s he pushes the bike along a deserted road surrounded by greenery, there’s a sense of serenity and solitude in the photo. The man appears focused on his task, with a determined expression on his face, making it seem like he’s taking on a challenge, pushing himself to the limit with this giant bicycle.

8. Life Before Smartphones

The stunning visuals before me evoke fond memories of my childhood. What strikes me most about these images is the absence of any mobile devices. Back then, life was a fully immersive and sensory experience, unadulterated by the distractions of technology. n contrast, smartphones dominate today, leading to a constant barrage of notifications, distracting us from the present moment. It’s important to take a step back, unplug from the digital world, and reconnect with the beauty and simplicity of life.