Wazzup Pilipinas!?
As I prepare to embark on the much-anticipated Landscapes SOX 2024 Photography Tour of SOCCSKSARGEN (SOX), I find myself both excited and energized. The allure of capturing the untouched beauty of the southern Philippines, particularly through the lens of my camera, is nothing short of exhilarating.
The tour officially begins at noon on October 25, 2024, in General Santos City (GenSan), and I am already mentally preparing myself to dive into this unique adventure. I’ve made sure to follow all the essential guidelines set forth by the organizers—from booking flights to keeping my luggage compact for the van ride. This four-day tour, set to end on October 28, promises an immersive experience in some of the most scenic and culturally rich destinations in the region.
A Photographer's Dream: Nature at Its Best
What excites me the most is the sheer diversity of landscapes that SOX has to offer. On Day 1, after settling into the 3G Garden Hotel, the first stop will take us to the coastal mangroves in Malapatan. I’m already envisioning the interplay of light and water as the sun dips below the horizon, a photographer's dream when it comes to coastal shots. Sunsets have always held a special place in my heart, and capturing one against the backdrop of the mangroves will be a perfect start to the tour.
The next day starts early, with a sunrise shoot in Tupi. Nature is at its most serene during these early hours, and I can't wait to capture the tranquility and beauty of the rural landscapes as the first rays of light wash over the land.
The Heart of the Experience: Lake Sebu
On October 26, we’ll journey to Lake Sebu, a place I've always been drawn to due to its cultural and natural richness. I’m eager to shoot the famous waterfalls, including Falls No. 1 and Falls No. 2, using my DSLR camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the majesty of these cascades. Shooting these falls will require a sturdy tripod, ensuring that I can get the long-exposure shots that make water appear silky smooth.
The highlight for me, however, will be the cultural immersion at the Gono S'bong traditional Tboli house. The Tboli people are known for their artistry and craftsmanship, and being able to photograph their way of life while listening to their traditional presentations will surely be a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Day 3: A Symphony of Sights
Day 3 starts with another early morning, as we head to the Lotus Garden of Lake Sebu for a sunrise shoot. I’m particularly excited about this location, as the beauty of the lotus flowers, combined with the morning light, will offer endless creative possibilities for aerials and portraiture. The day’s itinerary includes a lunch cruise around Lake Sebu, giving us another opportunity to capture stunning views while enjoying the serene waters of this mystical lake.
Wrapping Up in GenSan
Our final day will include an early morning shoot at Tuna Port in General Santos City. This bustling port is known for its vibrant activity, and I can already picture the candid moments waiting to be captured. The dynamism of the port, with fishermen preparing their catch, offers a stark contrast to the serene landscapes we would have encountered over the past days.
As the tour concludes, I’m already imagining the countless photos I’ll have collected—each one a testament to the unparalleled beauty of SOX, from its coastal wonders to its towering waterfalls and cultural treasures. I look forward to sharing these images with the Wazzup Pilipinas community and beyond, showcasing the rich heritage and landscapes of SOCCSKSARGEN.
Final Thoughts
This tour is more than just a photography trip; it’s a journey into the heart of Mindanao, a land rich in both natural beauty and cultural diversity. With every click of the shutter, I aim to preserve not just the visual grandeur of the region, but the stories, traditions, and spirit that make it truly unique.
As I join my fellow photographers on this tour, I feel a deep sense of gratitude and anticipation. Through the lens of Wazzup Pilipinas, I hope to bring SOX closer to the hearts of our readers, highlighting why the Philippines is not just a destination for business, but also for leisure, adventure, and cultural exploration.
Stay tuned as I embark on this journey, camera in hand, ready to capture the soul of SOX!
Ross is known as the Pambansang Blogger ng Pilipinas - An Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Professional by profession and a Social Media Evangelist by heart.
Post a Comment