A Sinulog Special: Shooting the Sinulog

CEBU, Philippines - (with inputs from events photographer Richard Suarez) Cultural events and festivals are always exciting for photographers.

As such, it really is no wonder why there are hundreds of photographers – hobbyists or otherwise – psyched by the prospect of taking Sinulog photos each year.

If you’re among the many who intend to take impressive shots of this year’s Sinulog festivities and celebrations, below are pointers which will greatly help you complete your Sinulog-photography ideals.

Weather and Lighting Conditions

Every photographer knows how important lighting is when talking about capturing images, and since the weather is something which photographers really don’t have any control of, it pays to do a quick weather check before hitting the streets.

As simple as the act is, a quick weather check allows you to be prepared with what camera settings you may have to use to complement or compensate for lighting conditions, however they may be on the day of festivities. It also allows for the preparation of proper rain gear, should any be necessary.

Positions and Vantage Points

As with any other festival, one of the challenges in taking Sinulog photos is found in finding the right vantage point where one can take photos from.

While constantly immersing oneself to where the action is has its upsides, that option can be quite exhausting and cumbersome, and it does not always assure a photographer that he or she will be able to take good shots.

Finding a good spot that offers ample space to move around and still be close to where the action is proves to be a better option, allowing you to stay in one location while the festival’s participants and floats move by.

Gear

Since festivals like the Sinulog parade are held in public spaces, a lot of action is bound to happen right before your eyes.

With all that action and movement, a wide angle zoom lens is adequate enough to capture interesting photos (particularly when matched with high shutter speeds), which means that you don’t have to lug around a complete inventory of camera equipment and gear during the event.

Extra memory cards and extra batteries prove to be more practical than bringing two or three telephoto lenses (having one telephoto lens handy would be the way to go, considering how bulky such lenses can be).

A solid understanding of a camera’s aperture settings, shutter speed options and lighting could also negate the need for an external flash, and having a set of spare clothes, a face towel and your own water are practical items to include in one’s pack. Comfy and durable footwear is also something which should be considered.

Bottom line, a firm understanding of one’s photography skills and experience is essential in identifying which equipment item should or shouldn’t be brought, with bringing only the most minimum of gear being a priority.

Security and Safety Considerations

Just as the Sinulog parade draws large crowds, the event also draws a lot of pickpockets and thieves.

Attention and care should then be given to one’s surroundings when taking Sinulog photos, and opting for bags, cargo shorts and other “equipment holsters” with secure zippers/locks is advisable.

Compositions and Subject Matters

When talking about photographs and festivals, capturing an image that tells a story – particularly about the people who take part in it – is bound to be more interesting than simply taking pictures of a crowd.

As such, don’t limit your photography plans to a closed shot list, but be keen on taking a photos which capture the Sinulog spirit.

Be open minded in what your camera’s focus, subject matter and composition may be, and be quick to find interesting subjects that would make for an interesting Sinulog photo.

More importantly, take the time to have fun while documenting Sinulog 2013.