In the heart of Southeast Asia, Singapore emerges not just as a bustling metropolis but as a beacon for Travel photographers searching for the perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Amid this backdrop, Travel photography in Singapore thrives, driven by the city’s dynamic scenery and ability to tell a thousand stories through the lens of a camera. This island city-state, the only one of its kind in the world, offers a canvas of dazzling skylines, lush green spaces, and vibrant street life. From the iconic Marina Bay Sands to the tranquil Botanic Gardens, Singapore’s diverse landscapes provide endless opportunities for capturing compelling images.
At Wonderful Machine, we define Travel Photography as imagery that captures the essence of a place, including its scenery, culture, attractions, activities, sometimes food, and accommodation. Here are Singapore’s seven best Travel photographers, each bringing their unique perspective and storytelling prowess to showcase the Lion City’s multifaceted beauty.
Lauryn Ishak is a Singapore-based photographer recognized for her captivating imagery. Her work encapsulates experiences that stretch from the architectural marvels of China to the secluded luxury of Maldivian islands, rugged Indonesian terrains, and the diverse urban landscape of Singapore. It invites viewers on a global odyssey, reflecting her extensive travels and diverse living experiences across Germany, Indonesia, Hong Kong, New York, and Switzerland. Lauryn’s photography resonates with a wide audience, offering glimpses into the world’s hidden corners through a lens that balances commercial appeal with editorial storytelling.
Her clientele list is a testament to her versatility and skill, including prestigious names like The New York Times, National Geographic Traveller UK, and Bloomberg, further showcasing her ability to navigate through varying subjects with ease, from serene landscapes to dynamic urban scenes. Lauryn seeks to transport her audience alongside her on her journeys, capturing moments that range from bustling kitchen scenes in top-tier restaurants worldwide to serene Sri Lankan seascapes. Her work is not just about the destinations she photographs but about the stories, people, and cultures she encounters along the way.
Franz Navarrete stands out in the bustling Singaporean photography scene for his distinctive approach to capturing shapes, textures, and colors, blending them into a painterly vision that resonates with authenticity regardless of the project’s scale or nature. Whether delving into commercial assignments, exploring the nuances of interiors, fashion, and portraiture, or embarking on personal ventures, Navarrete’s work is a testament to his search for genuineness. His leadership role at Catherine Ong Associates’ multimedia division further showcases his multifaceted talents and commitment to the field.
Franz’s portfolio is enriched by experiences and explorations in diverse settings, from the vibrant streets of Vietnam to the dynamic fashion shoots for Flanelle Magazine. It highlights his ability to transcend the ordinary, inviting viewers into carefully crafted visual narratives that bridge the gap between reality and imagination. His passion for wanderlust, coupled with his keen eye for capturing people in their natural environments, has led him to create compelling stories through his lens, as seen in his Vietnam travel series with ONA Bags. This body of work, along with his contributions to Flanelle Magazine’s “Magic Hour,” further underscores his adeptness at seizing the beauty of moments. Franz is a photographer who not only sees but also deeply understands his subjects.
Alvin Ng is a Singaporean photographer and educator who crafts a bridge between the ancient and the contemporary through his lens. His work focuses on humanity’s enduring quest for self-discovery and the mystical aspects of spirituality. Over six years, his journey has taken him from the sacred pyres of Varanasi with the Hindu Aghoris to exploring legends of gods amidst the modern world. Alvin’s method involves hand-manipulating photographic prints, blending mythical narratives with imaginative storytelling that defies temporal boundaries, resulting in images filled with intimacy and enigma.
His approach to Travel photography is distinguished by his desire to forge deep connections with the people and landscapes he encounters, eschewing the superficiality of mere tourism. His philosophy further emphasizes the importance of seeing, understanding, and appreciating the diverse cultures and natural beauty of our world. This ethos is reflected in his advice to aspiring photographers, highlighting the significance of passion, discipline, and a profound comprehension of photography’s essence beyond social media’s fleeting allure.
Jeryl Tan’s journey from an autodidact photographer to an influential figure with a global following of over 74,000 showcases his remarkable ability to capture the essence of moments through his lens. Since 2014, Jeryl has built an impressive portfolio, collaborating with international brands like Accor Hotels, Adobe, and Samsung, among others. His expertise extends beyond commercial work, he enriches the photography community by conducting workshops with prestigious entities like Apple and Jaguar. Jeryl’s work is characterized by its ability to crystallize fleeting moments into lasting memories. It also reflects a dedication to his craft that resonates with both peers and admirers worldwide.
Sean Lee is a distinguished Singaporean photographer who has been carving a niche in lifestyle and corporate portraiture since 2003. His clientele boasts notable names across various sectors, including prestigious law firms, financial institutions, and creative agencies. Lee’s passion lies in capturing the essence of individuals, an endeavor that has earned him the prestigious Icon de Martell Cordon Bleu award in 2011, a testament to his prowess in photography within Singapore. His works, celebrated for their depth and authenticity, have not only been collected by the Singapore Art Museum but also exhibited globally. This includes the Saatchi Gallery in London and the Art Science Museum in Singapore, further showcasing his remarkable ability to convey compelling stories through his lens.
José Jeuland’s journey from a professional triathlete to a renowned photographer is a testament to following one’s passion. His extensive travels during athletic competitions fueled his transition and sparked a desire to document the world’s lesser-known cultures. Born in Brittany, France, and later moving to Singapore, José’s multicultural experiences enriched his photographic narrative, focusing on the essence of humans and connections across diverse cultures. He now heads COCO Creative Studio, engaging in commercial photography and directing, alongside nurturing aspiring photographers through workshops. His work is a celebration of the human spirit and cultural richness, capturing stories that transcend geographical and societal boundaries.
Amrita Chandradas is a distinguished documentary and Travel photographer, who splits her time between Singapore and Southeast Asia. Magnum Photos regarded her as one of the Top 30 under-30 Documentary Photographers in 2014. Moreover, leading publications like The New York Times and BBC World showcased her work. A graduate of the London College of Communications with an MA in Photojournalism and Documentary Photography, Amrita focuses on the intricate relationship between changing environments and their inhabitants. Her commitment to highlighting issues of displacement and struggle is backed by her completion of a hostile environment training sponsored by the Frontline Freelance Register, IWMF, ACOS Alliance. Her work is proof of her dedication to bringing personal insights into lesser-discussed topics through her lens.
Amidst the evolving tapestry of global vistas, the top Singapore-based Travel photographers redefine the essence of their craft. Through their lenses, they not only capture but also narrate the vibrant interplay between cultures and landscapes, contributing profoundly to the mosaic of travel imagery.
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