Galungan Ceremony – Sanur, Bali
A quiet blessing during Galungan, captured in the heat of Sanur’s morning light.
“Sometimes you don’t need more gear — you just need to look harder at what’s already in front of you.”
Location & Light
This was taken in Sanur, Bali, during the harsh mid-morning sun — a time when most photographers would wait for golden hour. But moments like this don’t wait. And neither should you.
The light was intense. No diffusers, no assistants, just me — watching, waiting, and working with what was already in the frame.
The Technique: Let the Scene Help You
The elderly woman was preparing a ceremonial blessing. Her hands, her expression — everything was full of grace and history. But the light was brutal. Deep shadows. Risk of blowouts.
Then I noticed the boys in white ceremonial shirts sitting below her, directly in the sun. Their clothing became my natural reflector. The sunlight bounced just enough to lift the shadows on her face and hands.
No gear. Just awareness.
The Mentorship Insight
“Sometimes you don’t need more gear — you just need to look harder at what’s already in front of you.”
This is the difference between taking a photo and making a frame with intent. It’s not always about perfect conditions. It’s about working with what’s real — especially when photographing people and culture with respect.
Camera Specs
Sony A7 II
24–70mm f/4 @ 70mm
f/4, 1/1000 sec, ISO 100
