Seasons in Cambodia

In a way, this was where and how it all began. For many years, I had wanted to visit Angkor Wat and my burgeoning interest in photography simply intensified that wish. The past decade had seen an explosion in tourism in the country and the temple's spires have become one of the most photographed and easily recognisable structures.

That was the first time I had ever used a tripod or be woken before the crack of dawn on a holiday not to catch a flight. But those were still early days yet, I did not even know how to work the self timer on my camera then. I sought to exorcise the tourist in me but could I really create an image and not just capture a photo?

She once told me landscapes are futile and a waste of time as no matter how technically good the image, it can never confer the same sense of awe and grandeur as being there in person. I did not really understand her then but I think I do now. However, this has not at all diminished what had gotten me started in the first place... I must just learn to see things in a different light.

It is now almost a year after my trip and only now have I found the time to go through my photos. I decided to give each of the four a different interpretation ; each simulating the feel of a different season although of course, there are no seasons in Cambodia.

It may never be the same as being there... but for now, I remember.


Angkor, Cambodia. December 2008.