Travel photography is interesting and the journey awaits is rewarding. We take photo as the return tickets to the moment we had. My photos are captured to how i want and dream it like to be. Each place has its own particular look, character and story. Several things that I enjoyed the most are when i get to meet the local folks, experience the unique culture and taste their delicacies. The best advise i could give is " Work with the best local guide or friend photographers you can find".

All credits are given to them and for helping me to go the places that unlikey people will share online. We may not able to remember the awe of gazing for the first time are the mountain we climb, the caress of tropical breeze, or the adrenaline of rafting white water. Good travel photographs need to be everlasting and to be able to tell each one of a story of its own about a place by the looks of it. When I went to West Java Indonesia recently, I knew thatI will be capturing rough sea waves with unpredictable weather. I got all geared up to the moment, most importantly, I bought my ZEISS Batis 2/40 CF for two days shots. 

A week after the trip, the basic thing to do is going through the photographs to post-processing, The result is amazing and fits with the my style of shot and I am very confident only with this lens I can tell the whole story of the next trip.  One big word “ VERSATILE!!

Supplementing the existing Zeiss Loxia lineup, ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 is a compact wide-angle lens specially designed to work with digital full-frame cameras from the Sony Alpha series (E mount). With high resolution across the entire image, low distortion and a state-of-the-art optical design, the ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 guarantees perfect imaging results every time.

I picked up another latest pre-production of e-mount Zeiss for my leisure trip, the Zeiss Loxia 2.4/25 “fully manual wide-angle” lens. I have to say that for the first time using Loxia lens, this one is completely different beast as compared with Zeiss Batis 2/25 especially in terms of weight. Focusing on the e-mount cameras is really amazing. The manual focus engages the "zoom focus assist" feature of the camera making sharp focus a snap. There is no play in the focus ring, and it is tight enough to hold it at place. The focus barrel is buttery smooth and has nice ribbing for easy grip whether bare handed or gloved. The aperture ring is solid and clicks nice into place with a range of f/2.4 - 22. The ring can also be "de-clicked" for silent use with video.

ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/2.8, 1/100sec., ISO 800

THE CHALENGING ONES WHEN IT’S RAINING IN BALI

As with most countries in South East Asia which are still enjoying the wet season, this year starts with rainy season in Bali too. While others may enjoy this rain, it might be troublesome for some and for photographers, the rainy season is the perfect time to experiment and have some fun with their camera outdoors. Usually you see a lot of pictures showing the "burning sky” and “crystal beaches" on the islands but in the midst of this beautiful rainy season, I have captured these photographs hoping they will fill you with inspiration. I did not have much time waiting for the weather to be better when it became clear that there will be no great sunshine before my travel ends. I therefore decided to go North to find a new challenge for me and the gear. The Batis 1.8/85, 2.8/135 and Loxia 2.4/25 were with me for 4 days.

My Self

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/5, 2 sec., ISO 320

There are exciting beaches, hills and waterfalls located in Singaraja. Capturing waterfalls needs effort and struggle. To reach the location you must climb up/down hundreds of steps with about 80% degree slope and river crossing. The ground is very wet and slippery and also needs to always be on alert to water column phenomenon. It is advisable to wear short pants and comfortable slippers/sandals to this waterfall since you must travel through rivers. However, the journey is well paid off when you reach the waterfall.. the sound of the the water that fall from 80 meters vertical height, the lush trees, the scenic and peaceful location will make anyone amaze and fall in love instantly.

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/14, 0.8 sec., ISO 100 

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/14, 0.8 sec., ISO 100

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/11, 0.5sec., ISO 200

NATURAL OF NORTH BALI

It was wet with cold/humid temperature each day in Bali. Some days were gloomy and overcast with thick cloud. This can be very challenging and for that, I am very happy that I can rely on reliable gears. That said, in this post I want to showcase you photographs which show not only intriguing beauty but elegance and uniqueness, and they are all captured during wet days. Take a hot coffee, and enjoy the frozen moment.

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/16, 8sec., ISO 100 (smooth reflection apps)

The natural scenery of Mount Batur, seen from the Pinggan village is the most photogenic sunrise and sunset, and even make Tamblingan Lake is a lake located on the northern slope of Mount Dimples, Munduk Village area, District Banjar, Buleleng, Bali. This lake is one of the three twin lakes that formed in a large caldera. At the East is Lake Buyan and Lake Beratan. Flanked by the surrounding forests and their location in the highlands make the lake environment cool and temperate. Awesome night photography. Not too lucky with the weather of which I had to make the best out of it.

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/9, 30sec., ISO 100

Tamblingan Lake is a lake located on the northern slope of Mount Dimples, Munduk Village area, District Banjar, Buleleng, Bali. This lake is one of three twin lakes that formed in a large caldera. The east row are Lake Buyan and Lake Beratan. Flanked by the surrounding forest and because it is located in the highlands makes it cool temperate lake environment.

Flood after heavy rain

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/14, 1/125sec., ISO 100

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/16, 1/160sec., ISO 100

STREET

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/2.4, 1/200sec., ISO 100 

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/2.4, 1/100sec., ISO 1600 

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/2.4, 1/200sec., ISO 100 

Sony a7RII + ZEISS Loxia 2.4/25 @f/2.4, 1/100sec., ISO 1600

The Loxia 2.4/25 is AWESOME! -- Sharpness, micro-contrast, colors rendering, starburst and build quality are outstanding. The combination out of a Sony A7 series body and a ZEISS Batis or Loxia lens is perfect for photographer’s needs. If you are going to ask this much money for a manual focus-only prime (fixed focal length) lens, it better be good like street, lifestyle and nature photograph.

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount, F13,1/60 sec., ISO-100

For a travel photographer, this is a real hidden paradise with a lot of spots that have not been photographed. Many places are still untouched and everything can still be visited without passing a cash desk and tourist agencies. I started traveling from Dompu and Bima (Kota Bima) regency to Sape regency which is almost 200km apart with winding roads and sometimes faced with severe road surfaces. Many places do not have paved roads, but my bizarre local friends from the Alpharian Bima Community are “trained” to drive through potholes and bumps. Each stopover for photography and ciggy break was exceptional. East North as well as West South of Bima offer beautiful beaches, hills and mountains and not forgetting the beautiful local folks. Most of the beaches are pristine and often you can spend an entire day without too many people. More than often you can stay there alone for hours. I was also truly amazed with the kind hospitality extended to me as an outsider. Bravo Bima Alpharian, “Anda Semua Luar Biasa”!

I traveled during dry weather that went up to 42 degrees Celsius at times. While exploring the dusty and dry land, I feel safe being accompanied by local friends and besides, this is the best way to get to know each other. Time tends to go by surprisingly slow when you have to wait for dawn and dusk. For this trip I packed full frame 42 megapixel e-mount and APSC e-mount camera as well as four ZEISS Batis and one Milvus lenses. This was everything I needed for capturing the beautiful landscapes and such. Staying outdoor for 10 days, all my gears need to operate perfectly in the hot, dusty and dry conditions and to be able to withstand every form of severe weather condition. The ZEISS lenses offered unbeatable build, quality and reliability. I did not face a single problem using them.

My easy thoughts of Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25  AMAZING LENS!

When I first received the pre-production Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 Lens, my first expression was that this is the beauty sexyness lens. Within my journey the lens always on the camera which its connected with Metabones IV. The result was fantastic. How Milvus 25mm dealt with Full Frame 42 megapixel e-mount surprised me in a very positive way. It offers strict control of color aberrations, wide open along with beautiful bokeh, and stopped down a bit, it delivers amazing sharpener but in a wide open F1.4 with a little vignette on full frame 42 megapixel e-mount.

• Aperture Range: f/1.4 to f/16
• 2 Aspherical elements, 7 Low Dispersion Elements, Zeiss T* Anti-Reflective Coating
• Manual Focus Design
• Anodized Metal Barrel, Rubber Focus Ring with Weather-Sealed Construction
• Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm 
• Filter diameter: 82mm
• Minimum focus: 0.25m
• Weight: 1095g
• Lens mount: Canon (ZE), Nikon (ZF.2)

It is a specialist lens designed for the highest resolution sensors; I would want to use it with a tripod for considered, unrushed photography in any kind of conditions and without limitations on quality, performance or light. On a more positive minimum focus distance is 25cm and also the lens gives attractive 18-point sunstars when shooting into the light stopped-down. There’s no autofocus with this lens, meaning you’ll need to rely on technical focusing "focus peeking" skill to achieve a sharp shot. Here are some sample photos showing what this lens can do. I will update to compared with Zeiss Batis 2/25.

The Beauty of Kelapa Island is one of the exotic beautiful islands in the form of hills with savanna grass. The island is also dubbed as a miniature of the Raja Ampat.

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount,  F11 ,0.4 sec., ISO-100

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount,  F8.0 ,0.4 sec., ISO-100 +2/3EV, Panorama stitch 6 single exposure 

The Child Jockeys brave danger for cash and glory 

A Children, aged five to ten years, are trained and used as jockeys in kota Bima for popular horse races, a traditional sport in the area and a cultural heritage which continues to be preserved by the people of Bima. Hundreds of horses are usually entered in these races. The children's training starts from early age. Around five, they are not afraid of riding at high speed. The horseback riding and horse handling ability is taught as it is passed on from parent to child, as is the feeling of excitement and honor of competing in these races as well. Horse owners are on the lookout for small and light competent riders. The child jockeys are traditionally trained to race with skill and guts, but they do not wear proper safety equipment. They ride without a saddle or footwear, and often no helmet, so thick socks, long sleeves and a full face mask are used as protection from flying debris. These simple items form the best safety riding gear they have. Although dangerous, the child jockeys are fully supported by their parents as it is a local tradition. The fathers too were once on a horse as a young boy. It is also economically good for the family, who earn from the horse owners. The jockeys earn IDR 30,000 to IDR 50,000 each ride, and they ride 10 to 20 times in a day. The races draw hundreds of betting spectators from all around the city to come, watch and bet. As children in a competitive and dangerous fast sport, there are tears and fears, especially with falls. Accidents happen, and some cause severe injuries and the risk of the child jockey being trampled by a horse. But the race still continues on despite the spills, as it is not just a competition, but also a pride of a tradition. 

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount, F4.0 ,1/2000 sec., ISO-100 (handheld)

BIMA Zeiss Batis 2.8/135 with APSC emount, F2.8 ,1/1000 sec., ISO-100

BIMA Zeiss Batis 2.8/135, f2.8 with APSC emount , F2.8, 1/1000 sec., ISO-100

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount, F4.0,1/2000 sec., ISO-100 (handheld)

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount, F5.6,1/125 sec., ISO-640 (handheld)

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount, F2.8,1/30 sec., ISO-6400 (handheld)

Sarae Nduha

Meaning of the word "Sarae Nduha" can be translated is a landslide sand, National parks are still relatively new this could be one of the coastal tour with savannah. In eastern “Sarae nduh”a you will be served with scenery savana “doro ncang” a (mountain split) with buffalo, cow, and many wild horses. And no less interesting is the cliff of the hill on the beach that is the main attraction for visitors. The sea is still blue asrih making the southern scenery “sarae nduha” beautiful with Tambora mountains that are the icon of the island of West Nusa Tenggara. 

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount, F13, 30sec., ISO-100

Ntumbu Tuta is a part of the traditional heritage of the Bima people in the West Nusa Tenggara

Yet there are those who know exactly when the attraction of art like this started there in Bima. Because this is just found in District of Wawo. But some historians and cultural experts argue that this attraction has existed 17th century of Sultanate Bima. Nearly 90 percent of traditional arts attractions Milky dominated by attractions that depict the spirit of patriotism dexterity and “heroism”. 

BIMA Zeiss Batis 2/25 with Full Frame emount , F3.5 ,1/640 sec., ISO-200

MORE PICTURE 

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount , F11,1/100 sec., ISO-100 (handheld)

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount , F11,1/100 sec., ISO-100 (handheld)

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount, F2.0, 1/125ec., ISO-100 (handheld) Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount, F2.0, 1/80sec., ISO-400 (handheld)

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount,  F14 ,1/5sec., ISO-100 +1EV

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount,  F1.4 ,1/2500sec., ISO-100 (handheld)

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount,  F8.0 ,1/60sec., ISO-100

Zeiss Batis 2.8/18 with Full Frame emount , F2.8 ,8sec., ISO-6400

Zeiss Milvus 1.4/25 with Full Frame emount,  F1.4 ,8sec., ISO-1250

We’re lucky enough to get holiday weekend, I’m sure many of you will be firing up the barbecue. But I bet there are very few who give a thought to the charcoal you pick up to provide your feast. Having recently returned from Southern of Malaysia, I will be giving it some thought, because I’ve seen first hand how much hard work goes into the production of charcoal. They start working after dawn prayer. The first task is to reduce the pile and filter wood that has become charcoal. The method of making charcoal in this way is rarely seen as we know it has a high and hot clinks / furnace. The air at the charcoal stack is so thick and polluted it’s almost impossible to breathe. Photographs taken in the bright sunshine of morning have an impressionistic, misty look because the air is so full of soot, smoke and toxins that it turns day into twilight. As if the smoke weren't enough, half the time the workers also have cigarettes dangling from their lips. There is always this feeling of pity but what's amazing is these people know how to overcome adversities. That leads to a realization that life is difficult for some and we should be thankful and contented for what we have and share to others. Tough life Man, an inspirational photo shoot.

When it comes to an environmentally challenging situation, such as shooting inside a charcoal factory where dust is a big problem, I would not hesitate to pick up the ever trusted Zeiss Batis Lenses pair with a7RII and a6000. I armed myself with all the necessary lenses for this particular shoot: Batis 2/25 and 2.8/135. As u can se most of the images were photograph using the new Zeiss Batis 2.8/135 APO. Meanwhile 50mm and 85mm lenses tend to be very popular for photographers. Since I started to use prime lenses ecspecially 135mm they force me to think more carefully about the composition. 

Zeiss made a great decision to create a lineup smaller lens that balances near perfectly on the full frame e-mount series bodies. and, it is most certainly one of the sharpest and cleanest lenses I have been fortunate enough to use. The Zeiss Batis 2.8/135, it is not too big and so doesn't take up too much room in my camera bag but more important its 613g weight, the lens feels well balanced on the e-mount cameras.

Sony A7RII, Zeiss Batis 2.8/135, f2.8 ,1/320 sec., ISO-200

Sony A7RII, Zeiss Batis 2.8/135, f2.8 ,1/640 sec., ISO-200

Sony A7RII, Zeiss Batis 2.8/135, f2.8 ,1/500 sec., ISO-200

Sony A6000, Zeiss Batis 2/25, f2.8, 1/750 sec., ISO-200

Sony A7RII, Zeiss Batis 2.8/135, f2.8 ,1/800 sec., ISO-640

Sony A7RII Zeiss, Batis 2.8/135, f2.8,1/1600 sec., ISO-200

Sony A6000, Zeiss Batis 2/25, f2.8,1/1000 sec., ISO-200

Sony A7RII, Zeiss Batis 2.8/135, f2.8,1/1250 sec., ISO-200

Sony A7RII, Zeiss Batis 2.8/135, f2.8,1/400 sec., ISO-200

all images where post processed to my taste 

“LET`S TRAVEL LIGHT WITH ZEISS”

Somewhere at Nusa Penida IslandZeiss Batis 1.8/85 2s F10 ISO200 Zeiss Batis 1.8/85 2s F10 ISO200

BALI, as known to all, is very rich of its culture and inheritance. Apart from the famous tourist spots which have already been over populated and mainstream, there are many other interesting places for you to explore to justify its tagline, the hidden paradise. The world seems to stop when you are in Bali. To be at one place to another is a one helluva journey and I would recommend local guides assistance for tourists. Take their advice since there had been incidents that took the lives of some who did not listen to the locals’ advice. It's just not worth it as the tides can be unpredictable and you have to remember the location as it is adjacent to the vast ”open” sea which is difficult to predict the weather. As for accommodation and local delicacies, nahh, it's not a problem at all!!!. For seascape and landscape photographers, this is simply an island not to be missed. Through all the excruciating steep, narrow and long winded steps, there lie beaches with breathtaking and spectacular views of the sea and rapid rocks formation. A charming island that i will definitely come again.

Three Batis lenses 2.8/18, 2/25 and 1.8/85 and two e-mount cameras accompanied me during this trip of 5 days  & 4 nights. They are lightweight totaling to 7.5 kg only as compared to the normal DSLR lenses but produce such amazing output and what I like about the batis lineup is that they are water & dust resistance which are great for travel photographers. You will never regret having Zeiss Batis lenses.

Local people at Tenganan Pegringsingan Village

Zeiss Batis 1.8/85 1/500 F1.8 ISO100

Small temple before the storm

Zeiss Batis 2.8/18 15s F16 ISO50

Broken Bay 

Broken Bay is a coastal cliff at the same height of Uluwatu. Broken Bay's unusual appearance is due to volcanic activity, the beach appears "trapped" between the cliffs which has allowed a giant pool to develop which is second to none. Above the entrance to the water, lies a natural bridge of rocks that you can cross.

Zeiss Batis 2.8/18 ; 6 Exposure stitch photo crop 5:7

Karang Dawa View​ Point 

You will pass stunning landscapes including some amazing beaches from the Karang Dawa view point. Kelingking Beach, which is hidden below the high cliffs and hills of the peninsula, is like a piece of paradise in the bottom corner of the island. This beach alone will make you fall in love with the island.

Zeiss Batis 2.8/18: 5 Exposure stitch panorama crop 16:9

Atuh Beach

Rustic, isolated cove beneath a sheer cliff face, with a sandy beach & offshore rock formations.

Zeiss Batis 2.8/18 30s F13 ISO64

The Moon Light of Atuh Beach

Zeiss Batis 2.8/18 30s F4 ISO1000

Raja Lima Atuh

this place is along the eastern coast of Nusa Penida.

Zeiss Batis 2.8/18 8s F11 ISO100

Toy for this trip:

e mount cameras, 6 batteries, Zeiss Batis lenses, Zeiss ExolensPro, Iphone, Gitzo Explorer tripod, Manfrotto Pixi mini tripod, Lee Filters, MindShift Gear bagpack, First Aid Kit

The Phonegraphy 

Iphone 6Plus with ZEISS Mutar™ 0.6x Asph T* wide-angle lens

Expanding your creative options for taking photos with your iPhone 6plus doesn't have to mean using a new app. Adding a wide-angle,telephoto or macro lens can open up all sorts of new opportunities but rest assured that the Zeiss ExoLens® PRO collection will not turn you into a pro overnight. unless you’re crazies obsessed-pic, the impact is modest. If you want serious zoom power or breathtaking landscape, street, portrait and macro shots, this collection won’t quite get you there.

• ZEISS Mutar™ 0.6x Asph T* wide-angle lens
• ZEISS Mutar™ 2.0x Asph T* telephoto lens
• ZEISS Vario-Proxar 40-80 T* macro-zoom lens

I went hands-on with the impressive wide-angle lens and Macro kit to see how the household name would improve my travel landscape photography. one of the exciting parts of the Apple Iphone 6plus ecosystem for me is extending the technology I carry in my pocket. The quickest way I’ve been able to do that is by adding an external lens to the phone’s already good camera. The Zeiss ExoLens® PRO system is known to be more expensive than other options on the market, which translates into a higher quality product but if you're serious about your photography you'll quickly see where the money's been spent each individual piece is as high quality as the last and all feel like something you’d find in your own camera bag.

Iphone 6Plus with ZEISS Mutar™ 0.6x Asph T* wide-angle lens

Last week I traveled to an amazing island in Indonesia called Nusa Penida. I spent most of the time with the 0.6x wide-angle, since this is where i'd normally expect to see any optical compromise creeps in. However, it delivers sharp detail right up to the edges of the frame. I was expecting to see a fair bit of distortion with the lens attached, but it didn’t really have any at all but some flare notice quite noticeable when shooting into the sun. This is pretty rare, even in a DSLR lens, so to get this kind of performance in an iPhone add-on is impressive. For Travel photographers these triplet toys are for you guys ; The iPhone regular lens is roughly equivalent to a 29mm wide-angle, so the Zeiss 0.6x wide-angle stretches this to 18mm equivalent, which is very wide indeed and also you can put in polarize filter size 40.5mm. It enables you to take in sweeping landscapes, architecture and cramped space which you would previously have needed a DSLR or Mirrorless with a super-wide lens to capture. 

Iphone 6Plus with ZEISS Mutar™ 0.6x Asph T* wide-angle lens

Iphone 6Plus with ZEISS Mutar™ 0.6x Asph T* wide-angle lens

Iphone 6Plus with ZEISS Mutar™ 0.6x Asph T* wide-angle lens

Iphone 6Plus with ZEISS Mutar™ 0.6x Asph T* wide-angle lens

ZEISS Vario-Proxar 40-80 T* macro-zoom lens

Crop make it square frame

TIMELAPSE

MOYO ISLAND

Mata Jitu Waterfall at Moyo Island

My first day after reach the land name West Sumbawa we straight ride the small boat to see the hidden paradise behind the forest of Moyo Island, Sumbawa Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, sounds of splashing water can be hear in the silence of nature. Mata Jitu waterfalls, a stunning waterfall can amazed anyone who came to this region. Beautiful scenery complete with natural green trees made Air Mata Jitu waterfalls became one of excellent things at Moyo Island. Waterfall which has become part of Indonesian nature reserve, have been formed millions of years ago. The combination of green waterfall young and old seemed to hypnotize you to throw themselves and play in the water in this waterfall.Mata Jitu waterfalls has four railroad and seven pools. By the locals, “Mata Jitu” is defined as springs that fall right on the pond below. The beauty of Mata Jitu waterfalls is famous up to foreign countries. In fact, the late Princess Diana has been in this waterfall. People around the waterfall are also dubbed as the “Queen Waterfall”. The beauty of the waterfall staircase steps is not only the water coming down from above. The rocks that have formed thousands of years ago can also be seen here. Stalactite-stalagmite adorned wall surfaces Mata Jitu waterfalls as beautiful scenery presented. Form of stalactites and stalagmites that varied the main attraction for anyone

Kenawa Island

Second day; The journey with the small boat only takes 15 minutes. Kenawa island is really close to Poto Tano port, the port of Sumbawa Barat. Kenawa island is a part of Gili Balu’ district in Poto Tano Village – Sumbawa Barat, Indonesia. Besides Kenawa Island, there are seven other islands close to Poto Tano. Those islands are: Kalong, Nano, Mandiki, Paserang, Kambing, Belang and Ular.

KENAWA ISLAND

The first thing I noticed arriving on Kenawa was just how quiet everything was. The only sound on the island was the whistling of the wind through the grass and the crash of the surf against the sandy beach. However, there was trouble in paradise covered by rubbish. The government department that should be partly responsible for conservation efforts on the island.

KENAWA ISLAND

Third day: The next journey begin, we clamber onto a 4WD that heads out on a dusty road. Our ride is a bone-shaking one that takes us to a mountaintop village known as Mantar. As the rough track gets steeper, our car hugs the edge of the mountain in a series of hairpin bends. Situated around 17 kilometers from the city of Taliwang, the regency capital of West Sumbawa, Mantar is not easy to reach as the 5-kilometer road leading to the village is not yet sealed. But those who are lucky enough to hike to its peak can expect to marvel at the eight breathtaking islets of West Sumbawa, including Kenanga Island.  Mantar Point

Mantar Village Its unique culture, especially in relation to the albino residents, also makes it a destination for curious travelers. "Believe it or not, Mantar always has seven residents with albino skin. If one dies, then one will be born with albinism; this continues to happen until now" - villagers says. 

MANTAR POINT

MANTAR POINT

The traditional sport of buffalo racing is often played out on the muddy rice fields of Sumbawa. Mantar Village, perched 860m above sea level on Mount Mantar overlooking the Alas Strait, is a picture-perfect pastoral settlement of traditional stilt houses. Life here revolves around farming and breeding livestock. Villagers still use buffaloes attached to traditional wooden ploughs for farming and hold rice planting ceremonies – just as they did hundreds of years ago. Like many rural areas in Sumbawa, mysticism is ingrained in people’s beliefs; under lock and key inside the village mosque is an ancient ceramic urn holding water that is thought to have magical powers.

TALIWANG

SPECIAL THANKS TO ALL MY LOCAL FRIENDS BALI,BIMA,DOMPU,SUMBAWA,LABOAN BAJO

It's been a long almost 5 years for Sony A-mount fans, A new flagship model for its Alpha SLT-series it's back!

In fact, the new A99-II feels exactly like the first one. Sturdy and with good ergonomics. Right now in my hand just CZ24-70/2.8 ZA II SSM, I can`t tell about ‘resolution pixel peeping’ with other lenses. 

THE COLOR OF PENANG CITY

THE GLASS FACADE

PANORAMA OF PENANG CITY - 6 images stitch via Photoshop CC 2017

What I like;

1. It’s a flip screen (LCD) around  especially for Landscape & Architecture shot.
2. Image quality feel same as my a7RII opened via ACR Photoshop CC – handle shadow, highlight, dynamic range.
3. Noise control i think better that a7RII (ISO6400) 
4. Low light AF -4EV
5. The 'click' sound is short (maybe reduce shutter lag) and sensitive and smooth.
6. The buffer is cleared much faster compare a7RII.
7. AF Tracking - Fast

What I don’t like

1. its joystick a bit annoying  why? If u select the menu example AF-S Mode “single” and u have click “OK/enter at Joystick button" sometimes  accidently easy go other function to “AF-C  & etc” damn smooth & sensitive.  i think people have to get use and u will be okay.
2. Battery Life

About the video I did not have the opportunity to test, I am not an user in that field.

Special thank to Shaiful Baker (Facebook) Sony Malaysia came a long way to give me feel and touch this 'RACUN!' -- u r bad man dewd :p

FOR HIGH RESOLUTION JUST GO TO MY FLICKR ; Yudy Images

PUTRAJAYA MALYSIA 

THE REFLECTION

As a community of photography enthusiasts. There are Sony Alpha user representative from Cambodian, Malaysian & Indonesian etc.

We all are ONE

Before start the journey am with friends from Kuala Lumpur flew to Surabaya attended the 4^th Annual Gathering Alpharian Photographer Community host by Sony Alpharian Surabaya East Java Indonesia. “ u guys rock! Thumb up!’

The event offers me the opportunity to meet colleagues from different countries and different religions and nationalities. it was fun to meet friends from the same hobby. I am hope is that this event could be instructive and inspiring event for all of us.

Photo Hunting during the event at Pabean Market oldtown Surabaya City

#

#

Photo Model at Bukit Jaddih Madura

Travelling in the wet season in East Java is not recommended by most guide books. Roads do get flooded, heavy traffic and travel plans may be have to be altered. somewhat dangerously it can be enjoyable and a great time to travel. And with weather patterns changing globally, you never know what to expect whatever season you travel in!. No worries am superb damn lucky have a lot of local friends some of them come from Bali, Manado, Banjarmasin, Jakarta, Surabaya and etc. 

Thank you so much guys - Arik S. Mintorogo, Frunze, Laurensius Johan, Coco Yustian, Rizki Mahendra,  Rusdi Sanad,  Semmy Depri Absori,  Qurnia Andayani, Deska Kusuma Wahyu Widodo,  Antonius Widjaya,  Ali Mahmudi,  Riza Edwindra,  Daniel Tjongari, Faizal ortho and others

The islands of Madura, which is connected to Java by the longest bridge in Indonesia, Suramadu Bridge.

SONY DSC

Panorama of Mt.Bromo

Panoramic of Mt.Bromo

#

Mount Bromo is an active volcano and part of the Tengger massif, in East Java Indonesia. At 2,329 metres. The volcano belongs to the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. The name of Bromo derived from Javanese pronunciation of Brahma, the Hindu creator god. Here, at the top of King Kong Hill, lies a brilliant panoramic view of Mount Bromo, Mount Semeru, and the crater! 2nd time I was here not so lucky NO! mist/fog bcoz of raining season.

Panorama of Cemoro Lawang

#

The Breakfast 

MYSELF

Panorama of Papuma Beach

#

Before the rain begins, one of the first odors you may notice as winds pick up and clouds roll in is a sweet, pungent zing in your nostrils. 

Papuma beach is located 37 kilometers south of the town of Jember and are on track Bromo-Ijen-Bali. Beach with an area of ​​25 hectares of this, when viewed from above, looks like an elliptical arch. White sand beach complete the image resembles an egg.

#

The Cloudy Day of Mt.Ijen 

We`re 13 alpaharians completely and utterly unprepared for the adventure, which would turn out to be more challenging which its raining season —and more memorable—than anything we could have imagined. I take my hat off to Om Frunze has completed the course despite initially wanted to punt but Om Faizal Ortho encouraging him to continue the journey. At the top there eight of us had a very ‘memorable’ experience. Thumb Up guys!

The Ghost Workingman's

Don't expect life to be fair

Keep the privilege of a lifetime is being who you are

Were say life its not fair -- See yourself how they 'miners’ job. they must break off hot sulfurs and carry the backbreaking loads 100kg on their shoulders to a nearby refinery to get paid. --- Daily Life of Miners on foot hiking 4km up 4km down twice a day -- 2700 meter. They do it for around Rp200k a day, a decent local salary. -- THEY ARE AMAZING 

Info

Many other post-caldera cones and craters are located within the caldera or along its rim. The largest concentration of post-caldera cones run east-west across the southern side of the caldera. The active crater at Kawah Ijen has a diameter of 722 metres (2,369 ft) and a surface area of 0.41 square kilometres (0.16 sq mi). It is 200 metres (660 ft) deep and has a volume of 36 cubic hectometres (29,000 acre·ft).

The lake is recognised as the largest highly acidic crater lake in the world. It is also a source for the river Banyupahit, resulting in highly acidic and metal-enriched river water which has a significant detrimental effect on the downstream river ecosystem. On July 14-15, 2008, explorer George Kourounis took a small rubber boat out onto the acid lake to measure its acidity. The pH of the water in the lake's edges was measured to be 0.5 and in the middle of the lake 0.13 due to high sulfuric acid concentration.

The journey to be continued with broken english

No matter what your desire, I think you should pay this city a visit. The food is scrumptious, the markets big and colourful and the city surrounding boasts its nature. I also think people are more friendly and genuine here. In 4 days in the city i met new great photographer friends from different country. its talking like 'chiken and ducks', the language barrier do not stop us from sharing the same freaking crazy activity of taking photos - Local Photog from Chiang Rai you guys ROCK!. The crazy Russian videographer talked about timelapse magic latern also canon fanboy :p , who had traveled from Bolivia & Republic Chech etc.

Iphone 6Plus photograph by aifa

a7RII FE16-35/4

a6000 Batis 25/2  1/750 F8 ISO400 Handheld 5 image stitch panorama

Doi Inthanon National Park, nicknamed "The Roof of Thailand", is in the Thanon Thong Chai Range, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai Province, northern Thailand. It includes Doi Inthanon, the country's highest mountain. Sits here. Braving 100km winding road, extremely cold weather, steep cliffs, not forgetting the mosquitoes attack while waiting for the sunset simply pays off with this shot.

Sunset at King and Queen Pagodas, Doi Inthanon National Park

a7RII FE16-35/4 Lee Filters CPL 105mm

The streets and byways of Chiang Mai teem with abundant wonders. Vibrant temples, markets, and cuisine beckon your attention. Some sights will make you laugh and smile. Others bring a tear to the eye. All will deeply impress your mind. The famous Night Bazaar opens seven days a week and draws thousands of visitors every night. If you’re looking for handicraft items, it is recommendable to visit the saturday or sunday night walking street for better quality ones. Many local and international restaurants are clustered around the market area, some with live music and traditional Thai dancers.

Night Bazaar with a7RII Batis 25/2

 1/125 F2 ISO160 

Oh God! After all the hectic day I just like to take deep sleep 

 a7RII Batis 25/2  1/125 F6.7 ISO100

 Thailand Traditional Dance Performance

a7RII Batis 85/1.8 1/200 F2.8 ISO320

 The Night Seller

a7RII Batis 85/1.8

a7RII Batis 25/2

a7RII Batis 85/1.8

Bokeh

a7RII Batis 85/1.8 1/250 F1.8 ISO100

The Kayan Tribe Long Neck Women 

a7RII Batis 85/1.8 1/200 F2.8 ISO2000

Final Thoughts about Batis 85/1.8 & 25/2

Just about gear head the last 6 years back am using canon system before jump ship 99% into sony system. reminder all of you need to make the choices about what delivers final print size, the weight of the camera, the feel of the camera when working with it and possibly even the glass and system you presently own. 100% recommend the Batis lenses, but I would say that as a photographer using the sony  lines you have choices and those choices should be factored in when determining which lens you need.

I didn't had issues slow AF with both lenses especially the batis 85/1.8 a bit slow but u have to change the inside menu a7RII (Fast Focus AF) to me its fine and gets a few times to get used the understand the behavior of lenses. The 85mm Batis lens is a hard one for me to justify, as the canon 85/1.2 II lens I own before fully jumpship into sony is so incredible ‘bokeh’. The differences will be mainly seen in the Bokeh of the lens but that may not be as noticeable as you’d expected but term of sharpness the batis lens its superb combo. I don’t shoot a lot of portrait anymore but if you do, then the Batis would be a no brainer 2^nd choice after the brady heavy expensive Sony 85/1.4 GM.  I’d go as far and say it is the perfect portrait lens.

The focal length like 21 to 25mm this lens is my favorite all the times and it will be the first lenses I purchase. It is light and looks and feels great on the camera. The Batis 2/25 surprised me with extraordinary sharpness across the whole frame right from open aperture in a compact, lightweight housing. At f/2.0 you may have to correct some vignetting and some chromatic aberration (CA) but these almost disappear already when you stop down 2 step to f/4. Thanks to its wide aperture and close focus, it provides additional options to play with shallow depth of field and shows a pleasing 'bokeh' not available when using wide angle zoom lenses.

talk less, think more, work harder

With so many options available these days, taking and editing photos can be complicated. If you’re new to photography, editing your images might seem daunting. There are many different types of software out there, but with the majority of them, you can do the same basic tasks to improve your images. In this tutorial, I’ll use Photoshop CC 2015 & Adobe Camera RAW (ACR)

I will show you how to make my average photos pop by tweaking a few small things in Photoshop ACR

This Images capture via Sony A7R2 & Canon TSE17/F4 & Lee Filter CPL & GND 0.75s (two different exposure)

Just Click Tone in ACR

go as far as you like when you change each option

when you have finished changing is divided into 16bit and select merge exposure and gamma

after all finished I normally using the plugin color efek pro 4  to add color, detail, shadow etc ( pro contrast,tonal contrast,detail extractor,contrast color).

Nothing Special 

it is up to your taste

These common editing steps are appropriate for anyone who wants to learn how to edit their own images. Now, am encourage you to experiment to figure out what works best for you — and how to enhance your photos without over-processing.

"Who lives sees, but who travels sees more."

Shot with Iphone 6+ Mobile Imovie My Fav Song Cold Play

GUMUK PASIR

This is a unique phenomenon because only one in Southeast Asia we can see the desert like the Sahara desert.  Although this sand dune area not as wide as the Sahara but it look like we're in the Sahara Desert. Sometimes Gumuk Parangkusumo Sand are also known as the Sahara in Java. Sand Dunes - Gumuk Pasir , when the rainy season in the middle of the sand dune locations there is a sizable pool of rain water so it looks like a vast lake or oasis in the desert residents of this area called the “pagut”. but during my time its was blady hot dry season. As far as the eye could see us will be treated to beautiful scenery, the sand dunes with a backdrop of sand dunes Thousand Mountains and the Indian Ocean in the background.

Kaliadem is a village in the slope of Mt Merapi that is totally destroyed after the last great eruption of Merapi in November 4th and 5th , 2010. The hot cloud ( pyroclastic flow ) hit this village. Sometimes, Merapi Peak is seen so clearly without any equipment tools because it's very close to bad i was just one day here. Especially at night, the visitor can watch molten lava from the peak. The red lava looks contrast with the dark night sky. "The world is a book and those do not travel read only one page."

SONY A7R II FE55/1.8

SHEPHERD

SONY A7R FE55/1.8

PAK JEGOT

SECLUDED AND MYSTERIOUS PLAOSAN TEMPLES

After a tiring day I went to one place its was Plaosan Temple in the morning to capture magical moment sunrise but its normal sunrise no movement cloud or pattern just empty sky after that I walk around ask villagers about this temple and too see children going to school. Remind me memories of the time I was a boy i miss that moment peaceful joyful with old bicycle.

SONY A7R II FE55/1.8

What would come first in your mind if you have to mention one of Southeast Asian ancient temples? Angkor? The temples of Bagan? Borobudur?

THIS BOROBUDUR

For those who have visited Indonesia or are planning to go must have heard about Borobudur and Prambanan temples – both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Buddhist Borobudur was built in the 9th century AD – about three centuries before the construction of Angkor Wat was started – and currently is the world’s largest Buddhist shrine. While Prambanan which was also built in the 9th century is a Hindu temples compound which consists of six elegantly towering main temples and other smaller temples.

As we step into the gate, I look around to find the ticket counter as is often the case with most historic places. However, I only notice one young man in uniform guarding a small post at the left side of the entrance. He asks us to fill in a guestbook and give voluntary donation if want enter the temples at 8.00am gate will open. I ask the authorize to enter early inside but to bad his don’t give the premission its Local LAW, I do not enter just walk outside and realize not long afterward that I am are the only tourist there. This temple absolutely has its own beauty for photograph.

SONY A7R II TSE17/F4

PLAOSAN TEMPLES

-

HANDLE THE HEAT OF NASI GUDEG JOGJA

Who amongst us really like to think about where our food comes from? As long as it appears clean and tasty on our table, that’s all that matters. And sometimes like in the restaurants of southeast asia – it’s often not worth the mental anguish of wondering what’s going on in the kitchen. It will be delicious – tick. It won’t make you sick. So who cares about anything else, right?

Well in this case, you wrong. But only because this is one of the most fascinating and visually in interesting kitchens I have ever seen- at 21th 22th 23th Century? still use the traditional kitchens using firewood bcoz will less cost for business - y?  The ‘gudeg’, the main ingredient is being cooked. It’s made from sliced young jackfruit which is being boiled in these large pots. They have water mixed with brown sugar and salt in them, and will be left on the fire overnight for more than 12 hours!!

Many famous restaurants in the Indonesian city of Jogja. It’s not fancy – there are no stars or hats or pretensions associated with it. But it’s known across the city for doing one of the region’s most popular dishes well. The dish is called ‘Nasi Gudeg’ and it’s essentially boiled jackfruit " Buah Nagka Muda" covered in a coconut milk sauce, served with rice, chicken and a hard-boiled egg. This is what it looks like :)

A lot of effort clearly goes on behind the scenes in the spacious kitchen area of the restaurant. Hours and hours of work to provide this dish. But it is tasty very sweet "kuah" and spicy of "kulit sapi" in fact. Its great combination with "Teh Panas" or "Jeruk Panas" Which you hope makes it all worthwhile.

MEET THE REAL COFFEE MAKER

In the evening I went to a coffee shop that Klinik Kopi. I was introduced to the owner of the cafe its name Mas Pepeng. He very interesting guys when talking about coffee. This cafe not only serves coffee like "Touch & Go" that's not how he handles this cafe. He come with a simple mission: to educate our costumers on how to enjoy coffee properly and to share the story behind every coffee we serve.

The first time here and I served with 3 different cups of coffee without milk and sugar to tasted. Damn!! . - Its smell like sweet honey and also espresso is not bitter and sour like i thinking all the times. This is my first lifetime I can drink coffee without sugar and milky. Thumb Up Dewd "Mas Pepeng"

Klinik Kopi serves a wide selection of Arabica single origin from around Indonesia, such as Takengon, Bajawa, Baliem, Kintamani, Ciwidey, Sunda Jahe, Nagari Lasi, Blue Batak, Lencoh Merapi, Java Tobacco, Papua, and many more. Thus -- anyone who wanna too try the real coffee -- you can find them in their website www.klinikkopi.com

THE REAL COFFEE MAKER

MY CHOLESTEROL --  DELICACY GOAT

According to its title, satay klathak pong pack is good as long as we steadfastly waiting for him. because in addition to the presentation quite a long time, either when the end is not crowded and when the end of the crowded, an average of one hour.This causes increased my hunger damn!! 

One of the culinary treasures owned by the community Indonesia is the Sate. While sate themselves have characteristics that vary as satay, stay chicken, satay lamb skewers course, satay crab and satay madura. Of the many satay above, there is one that is quite unique and the only one available in Jogja. satay klathak Jogja. When the satay-one else made using a variety of herbs,then one satay klathak only flavored with salt and baked bars "spikes motorbike -- lidi Basikal -- Jeruji". This satay will seem very simple, but in reality this one much coveted by tourists.

Other alternative menu is worth trying, among others: Tongseng and Tengkleng. To eat Tengkleng needed a little "hard work", because the meat attached to the various bones of goats is not much. Perhaps this is where the art and the pleasure of eating tengkleng. Ready for dirty hands covered in sauce because cool to hold the bones to chew the meat attached. Tengkleng curry sauce is somewhat similar but more dilute. In terms of appearance, dressing tengkleng red-orange shiny, looks "smoldering" plus some fruit cayenne wholeness swim in it. But not spicy and heavy, when the tongue was tasty but lightly. Two culinary during 10 days in Jogja, Its my favorite dish is a tengkleng and satay klathak :)

THE LAST BUT NOT LEAST

THE ALPHARIAN JOGJA

MODEL OF THE DAY

RIZKY & MARWAN

THANK YOU SO MUCH GUYS

Going to Yogyakarta takes about 2.5 hours, and AirAsia’s seats are pretty comfortable linted with synthetic leather although as with all budget airlines, leg room is quite limited for each seat. I’m glad the plane doesn’t have any funky smells like some other airlines. After a couple hours, we reach our destination: Indonesia, Jogjakarta. Bandara Adisutjipto is pretty small, although being the 3rd busiest airport in Indonsia. At terminal B, I was invited by the Head of Community Sony Alpharian Jogja "Om Phenky" that is to be sent to the Harrison Hotel is was close to Malioboro street, after that "Omm Prasetyo" also came in hotel to take me for dinner. "KOPI ARANG!"

Malioboro StreetMalioboro is the most famous street in Yogyakarta. Located in the heart of Yogya, this is the city’s main street, and was once the ceremonial avenue for the Sultan to pass through on his way to and from the Keraton.

The next day leading to the Gunung Kidul with other friend from PesonaIndo Tour Guide "Rizky Nurrahman" and Marwan doin same jobs, I was lucky Incidentally they are not busy haha~  On weekend night "Libur" here very "macet" meh~ perhaps they are also the same place to like me or return their village. avoid if u hurry.

We stay at Pantai Indrayanti its was paid Rp250k per-night with regular rooms. Early morning around 4am we left guest house heading to Pantai Krakal hopefully get dramatic sunrise but frustrated weather not so kind that day its call mother of nature. After that heading slowly to next destination Pantai Pok Tunggal, Pantai Drini, Pantai Timang the last Pantai Wediombo. My first plan to stay in area Gunung Kidul for 4D3N but look at in terms of weather conditions not so good. perhaps my next trip :)

WEDIOMBO BEACH SUNSET

SONY A7R II FE16-35/F4

TIMANG BEACH

Its adrenaline test and the best experience in whole your life. Timang island is a small island. You have to across ocean to get there. Usually fisherman across to the island to catch lobster using a trap. Sometimes it become favorite place for fishing. But, to get here you have to collect all your courage to across the ocean. This place quiet isolated, not much tourist visit here cause the way so rocky. Even, for local tourist. Not much of them have visit this island.

Do at your own risk!.This is the first thing you should know firsthand before deciding to get onto traditional gondolas at Timang Beach. The gondola is a simple wooden box equipped with several pulleys and nine ropes with no warranties; no one can guarantee that the rope will not break or that the gondola is not worn out. However, past years, many tourists have come to have a try on the sensation of danger of riding on a gondola. The view served at Watu Panjang Island is of incomparable charm. The lines of the Southern beaches, from Krakal Beach to the twin Turtle Island at Nglambor Beach, can be seen clearly.

SONY A7R II FE16-35/F4

HOW TO GET THE BEACH:

Better you rent a car or motorcycle for cheap one. Invite local person as guide (Couchsurfer). It will take 1.5 -2 hours to reach the site. You can rent a car for comfy cause the road so rocky. If next time I will go again must rent 4WD easy rockin faster then normal car.

ENJOYING THE PEACEFUL SILENT HILLS

Waiting for the sunset to come above the lines of trees, within the green yellow mountains of Menoreh, while watching the lake from afar. The fresh air a place are the relief for stress. Experience spectacular sunsets from the deck atop the pine trees, a produced a perfect color mixture of a God-made painting. but i am not lucky again no sunset that day very cloudy. 

The Menoreh Maountains had been very friendly at that particular afternoon; it greeted us with cool fresh air to refreshen us after going in an exhausting one-hour trip all the way from Jogja. Our feelings, which had been tired of being hurried up by the crowded city traffic, were instantly brought to tranquility. Quiet roads, green shady yards in front of the local houses-all just tempted us to move here. The place threw our memories to our young days, to the home where our memories were kept safe.

Kalibiru is now a village known mostly for its ecotourism. This is, indeed, not the sort of thing that happens just the way it is; it took decades to recover its beauty-the land had once been dull due to deforestation. Presently, big thanks to the local villagers efforts in reforesting the village, Kalibiru tourism has mobilized the economy and indeed has become their livelihood. That's how it goes between the nature and manbeing-they take care of each other.

The perfect time to pay a visit to Kalibiru would be during the afternoon, when the sun shows more friendliness and put more melancholy to the surrounding atmosphere. Around the area, there is a pine tree growing just at the edge of a cliff. This is the exact spot from where we can freely enjoy the charming view of the mountains of Menoreh. So, don't feel reluctant to climb the provided hung stairs; sit on the wooden board installed there, inhale the fresh mountain air and exhale slowly while closing your eyes. Feel every second passing as you will feel that time passes so slowly. For a while, forget the city live, leave behind all thoughts about your piles of works, and just savor the view you've got in front of you.

Kalibiru Tourism Village was firstly opened in 2008 by the local community in mutual cooperation. It was started to make footpaths then the construction of various facilities such as cottages, meeting place, toilet facilities, substations of view, and flying fox with complete facilities. Kalibiru Tourism village now already visited by local and foreign tourist .

ITS ME

Speaking about tourist destinations in klaten it seemed to have no end, the article that this one is no stranger probably among tourists around the area of ​​Yogyakarta, solo or Klaten, this one I will provide information about a tourist exotic with landscapes as if you in the middle of the ocean, what else if  "Rowo Jombor".

Rawa Jombor is a swamp that is situated in the center of the village of Krakitan Bayat Klaten district, Central Java, Rowo Jombor are in the middle of limestone hills, the area of ​​marsh has been inaugurated by the tourism department district klaten since 1956, swamp Jombor is approximately 9 km from downtown Klaten, if from Yogyakarta later following the path of By Pass Klaten. And every bend there must be some signs signs directions that can help you to the area of ​​Rawa Jombor.

THE BEAUTY OF SUNRISE

SONY A7R II FE16-35/F4

I came here with of friends alpharian jogja, we set off as early from hotel in Jogja as 4 am to dodge traffic will be "Macet". Advice for those who are not familiar to get here please hire tour guide or local friends. I was really lucky got many friends in Indonesia to offering their help.SUPERB!

This place is good also for being the destination for my fellow photographer. Came in the morning because it can get a nice sunrise along with fishing activity that catch fish in the swamp. Did you never go to Xiapu, China Vietnam Myanmar? I am also not yet just see the picture. The atmosphere here is like going to that place. it is the people are fishing "Jala" on bamboo rafts 

WILL CONTINUE MY STORY WITH Oh! MY ENGLISH :LOL

Ijen Crater

Kawah Ijen was one of the most brilliant parts of my trip so far, Kawah Ijen Volcano lies in Eastern Java. It is one of a series of volcanoes, including Bromo, Raung, Semeru and Merapi. Ijen is famed for having some of the most astonishing views on the island, due in large part to the surrounding volcanoes, as well as the picturesque turquoise lake that lies in the volcano’s crater. This lake is also the largest acidic lake on earth! No, what we were interested in was a phenomenon much more unique—Mt. Ijen's legendary blue flames. That there are only 2 in the world (the other one is in Iceland), and can be seen only at night. This is liquid sulfur, which has caught fire and burns with an eerie blue flame. Acidic gases emerges from the fumaroles among yellowish chunks of sulfur, and burns liquid sulfur.

Hiking in with the stars made it a really beautiful experience.A two-hour hike is required to reach the rim of the crater, followed by a 45-minute hike down to the bank of the crater but I do not have time to get down to the bottom because it is too late to photograph magical blue fire, the blue hour/sunrise begins. 

Mt.Ijen Milkyway

The sulfur miners who work inside of the volcano. The work is grueling; it’s a job that no one would do for any reason other than income. The miners begin their day at 1 a.m. with the four kilometer hike into the volcano. The miners’ job is to then break off sulfur and carry the backbreaking loads 90kg on their shoulders to a nearby refinery. They do it for around Rp200k a day, a decent local salary. Unfortunately, the miners don’t have the decent safety equipment they need for the conditions. During our time in the crater, I only saw few of miner wearing a respirator. The rest were breathing in toxic gasses, day in and day out, using only thin cloths or sarongs as protection from cold and toxic gasses. But despite the hazardous conditions, it’s a job that provides extra income from tourists. The miners sell trinkets and souvenirs made from sulfur, or serve as photo subjects for a small tip.

Kawah IjenPorter and Miners were warming their body with a bonfire when they are very cold conditions.YES brady cool i can`t stand still

The Miner

As the day progressed, we sat and walked around the volcano for an hour and decided that it was time to head back. Now to trek downhill on a steep slope. When going downhill, my knee blady hurt painfull compare climbing, after 1 hour we reached the parking spot where Jeep drive was waiting for us. We decided to get some breakfast from the canteen. Mee Rebus with egg and some coffee. 

so in summary, why go to:

Bromo – much more accessible. If you are lucky enough to see the sunrise it will probably be one of the best one’s you’ve ever seen. The hotels are of a much better standard and it’s all set up nicely for tourists.

Ijen – nicely off the beaten track it was uphill. Steep. More than 60 degress in most places. Along the way we were greeted by Sulphur miners who worked from pre-dawn to dusk to extract unadulterated sulphur from the volcano crater. Badass! As the sun rose, we took in the beauty of the panoramic view around us. Amazing crater views. A steady hike for people who like walking and want something to accomplish.

above the clouds

Be sure to wear good hiking shoes and comfortable clothing. Carry water and tissues, or bring a surgical mask to cover your mouth with if the conditions are poor.

If you want to photo hunting in Indonesian especially Mt.Bromo & Mt. Ijen a tour guide contact Irsam Soetarto or Ananta White Wings (Facebook)

Their plan goin to Lembongan Island for Photo Hunt its sound great but no idea what is there I just search via google images for get more information. Before go to the Island in the morning we catch a sunrise in area Sanur.

5d Mark III TSE17/F4

Melasti Beach

Apart from the island of God, exactly located in the southeast part of Bali, there are three small islands named Nusa lembongan, Nusa Ceningan, and Nusa Penida. These three islands are pretty popular among divers who want to seek for Manta and Mola-Mola, known as sunfish which appears in particular season. If you are a non divers or photographer, do not worry, you still can relax and swim in the beach.

Nusa Lembongan is the the second largest island among these three islands offers accommodation starting from guesthouses/homestays till the most luxurious villas and resorts. I was astonished upon my arrival in Nusa Lembongan. I quickly forgot the horrible sea-crossing, the wave was crazy, in addition of the boat's speedboat. I saw some storeyed villas forming beautiful scenery and no doubt it looks luxurious. I always mention blue sea colour, but this one, it's "blueis" than normal blue.

Although it is just a small island, Nusa Lembongan has turned to a touristic island. It's very close and easy to cross from Sanur by fastboat. But still, there are some awesome places to visit. One of the popular beach in Nusa Lembongan is Dream Beach. You can swim in the infinity pool with spectacular seaview without staying at the resort by paying Rp 50,000. Not far from Dream Beach, a cliff point named Devil's Tear may stunned you. Gigantic waves roll and crash the cliff create huge water splash. In some point, the crash will form beautiful waterfall on the cliff. Perfect place for photographers to catch this moment. you'll understand why the named it Devil's Tear after you come to this place.

The Devil's Tear

Let's continue to its neighborhood, Nusa Ceningan, the smallest among those three islands. Nusa Ceningan can be reached just around 20 minutes by motorbike from Nusa Lembongan. A narrow bridge connecting both islands. The bridge is too small to be crossed by two motorbikes."i don`t have the picture of bridge *&^%^!!" The best part of Nusa Ceningan is the jumping point. This is the place if you want to test your adrenalin.

The Soul of Seaweed Farming

The Soul of Seaweed Farming in Nusa Lembongan

Blue Lagoon Nusa Ceningan

Blue Lagoon Nusa Ceningan

Look at the stars.. look how they shine for you.. and everything you do

Alpharian Milkyway

Second trip here We go;  depart from Surabaya city by Garuda Airlines from bali at about 4.00pm waiting Irsam to pick up me at Juanda Airport to Mt.Bromo.This is my 1st time in Surabaya City - The journey from Surabaya city to Mount Bromo takes about  5 hours but due to some sort of traffic congestion at the nearby town of Probolinggo, on my way Irsam suggest to me take a break also look some interesting place its is call "TPA" cool for human interest photo I took a few pictures because it was dark.

Tempat Pembuangan Sampah (TPA) is a garbage dumpsite that many people would like to avoid due to its unclean and unhealthy place.Ironically, these mountains of waste – which are enough to make your stomach churn just by looking at them – are the source of sustenance for around 100-500 pemulung (waste pickers). They come from the surrounding areas, including: Banyuwangi, Jember, Probolinggo, Mojokerto, and Madura. Waste pickers choose to rummage through the garbage for a wage of Rp.60,000 per day, which they attain just by capitalizing on the ability to withstand the immense stink and disgust. When jobs are scarce and unreachable, the pay is tempting enough. Simple, yes, but not something that anyone can act upon.The fate of the stinking and dirty waste which is required to be quickly removed from our sight, even though we ourselves produce them every day. It’s funny how humans are disgusted by their own shit. Yet if we can’t shit every day, we risk dying. Sometimes human attitudes are even more stinking and disgusting than the waste they produce.

TPA

Mount Bromo is quite popular among tourists both local and foreigner for its ‘easy’ hiking track. The highlights of the area are Mount Bromo (with its smoking crater), Mount Penanjakan (the favorite sunrise spot), and Cemoro Lawang (where most visitors stay). There’s also Mount Semeru, the highest mountain in Java. Locals say, it took 2 days straight to hike Mount Semeru. It will never be on my list!

Reach Cemoro Lawang (the outer side of Mount Bromo area) at 9.00pm and already booked by Irsam a room at Cafe Lava Hostel. Most people, only use the room for a couple of days since i have to start looking for pictures at day/night 24h picture picture :) – if you’re looking for the sunrise. Cafe Lava Hostel has the best location (at the edge of the crater) so you just need to walk straight into Bromo. Meanwhile in restaurants glad to meet friend also malaysian Bro "Wilson Teo"  & our tour guide Ananta he told me need wake up around 12.00AM for shoot Milky way in somewhere Mt.Bromo (picture in gallery).

The next day, We had our morning call. It was 1am to catch the front line and I was too excited that I didn’t even feel sleepy anymore although I only got a 4 hours sleep. I put jacket on along with our gloves,pants, and boots.We were prepared to shoot amazing the sunrise!

The sky was full of stars I could never imagine and the temperature was less than 5 degree Celsius up there. Not to waste any more time, I sat on the back seat of the Jeep heading to Mount Penanjakan. It took about half an hour to reach the parking area at Mount Penanjakan and then we walked for about 10 – 15 minutes to the top of Mount Penanjakan.

Mount Bromo East Java Indonesia  

Here, at the top of Mount Penanjakan, lies a brilliant panoramic view of Mount Bromo, Mount Semeru, and the crater! I was not lucky enough with not to much fog and so the view up there was so clear to the east. And if I looked straight, I could see the sun coming up slowly. Since Mount Bromo is one of the most popular tourist destination in Indonesia, it is crowded! Some people even used their phone camera flash ON! as they took some pictures of the mountain, which I found quite annoying also there is a hit my tripod dammit!

To Be Continue :) My editor english is still sleepy lazy haha~  i just write with my  own "Pasar" Language so far sorry!

Those who follow this trip is the Founder Sony Alpharian Indonesia; Faizal Ortho, Sony Alpharian Jakarta; Ifur Syaifurrahman Syahrir; Sony Malaysia Trainer Meng Keat and Shashi Kumar.

"Our other CLONE ROBOCOP aka IFUR was driving almost 1200KM and the highest place is 800 meters above sea level"

Landscapes of natural beauty tucked away overlooking the Indian Ocean. White sandy beaches, clear blue water and lush rolling green nan. Reaching 65 km long coastline dotted reefs and white sand. This beach is the most beautiful beaches of the five beaches are owned by the Province of Banten.

Sawarna name of the beach, located in a coastal village which has a variety of interesting attractions to visit such as beaches, rivers, forests, rock cliffs, caves, and agrotourism. This beautiful coastal region fused with the mystical story of Nyai Roro Kidul and exploitation of coal in Bayah and Lebak by foreign invaders.
You will be impressed with the vast stretches of rice fields, beautiful panoramic view of the village, blowing cool air typical agricultural village, and rows of palm trees and teak trees that lined the fence like a calf village.

Arrived at Sawarna beach stiff and exhausted after a heavy seven hour car ride from Jakarta.Big thanks to my friend from jakarta ‎"IFUR" for crazy driver. I desperately needed to stretch and snap my bones back into their proper place. In fact, what I really needed was a massage, but that just wasn’t going to happen, so I settled for arching my back while breathing in the crisp sea air.

It was still at least few hour until dawn, so we decided to drop off our bags at the Motel "Malibu Resort" had simple lunch. Waited for beautiful sunset but to bad no magical light that day but the place was great for long exposure & human interest. After such a long all day car journey this was just a magical way to start the day.

TANJUNG LAYAR

We spent the next few hours exploring Sawarna beach with full gear camera try to "compo" any subject; listening to the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks and rolling up the beach "scary!". If you come here you can’t miss the fact that Sawarna beach is popular with surfers " their call mini Hawaii" 

Here the beaches waiting to be captivating eyes and heart. If you are a hobby of surfing or surfing why not feel the waves are spectacular even been sampled surfers from America, Australia, Japan, and Korea.

MALIBO RESORT

MALIBO RESORT SAWARNA

after one day in the village of Sawarna, we found that the wrong timing for sunset photography because it is the rainy season. Villagers told in May until July is a time that is suitable for photographers.

Tanjung Karang Taraje

CIKASO WATERFALL

Cikaso Waterfall

Cikaso waterfall is a dramatic waterfall on the Cikaso River in Western Java.

The Cikaso waterfall is on the Cikaso River, which originates in North Sukabumi and flows south to the Surade District in South Sukabumi. It lies in the Ujung tourist area between Jampang Kulun and Surade The waterfalls have a height of almost 80 metres (260 ft), with three parallel drops along cliffs that are about 100 feet (30 m) wide. The falls are accessible from the Ciniti, Cibitung village in the Cibitung Kulon sub-Jampang. They can be reached by foot or by motor boat.

From the Sawarna Beach five of us went to the waterfall which is located north of Sukabumi. We do work insane and crazy drivers willing driver in the middle of the night. This trip takes 8 hours with only 150km, but the road leading there was very severe, the highest is about 800 meters above sea level.

Once we see the waterfalls, we will be charmed by their beauty. Under the waterfalls, there's a jade-green pond where we can swim or take a bath. There are also big boulders adorned by green moss. We can sit on a boulder and enjoy the picturesque scenery.

Location for a photo is challenging for us as tourists because the place is very slippery and too much water splashing along with windy conditions. do not know where to put the tripod securely and the best main compo

I have also used the camera and lens to get a piece of the picture even splashes of water.

CIKASO WATERFALL  

The Ho Chi Minh City is a unique city in that it is rapidly growing but has yet to develop into a massive skyscraper filled concrete jungle. While it is transforming into a cosmopolitan world city, it still retains some of its old world charm. The city is rich with nooks and crannies, alleyways and narrow motorbike-filled roads, and areas unexplored by the majority of tourists, making it a very different type of place to explore. These features of Ho Chi Minh City make it a veritable playground for photography enthusiasts because you can take pictures here that will be distinctly unique. The irony is that this also makes it difficult to find the perfect spots to capture those exotic moments. 

Even though the city has little to offer in terms of mountains and oceans, the topography is unique enough to create a beautiful silhouette.  The Saigon River offers an interesting perspective for photographers because there are many spots along the river where one can look back and see the skyline or simply appreciate the sunrise and sunset.

For a great shot of the complete skyline, go to either the Kinh Te or Thu Thiem bridge (be carefull snatch theft}. Sunset is usually around 6 pm in the evening so try and catch the sun setting on the city! Note that the Bitexco Tower is the tallest building in the city and although it has a viewing deck on one of it’s upper floors(Glass), the skyline seems underwhelming from this perspective. (Ticket DONG200,00). The other vintage point its is The Chill Skybar & Dining Level 26 but to bad cant use the tripod.

The one thing that this city most definitely does not lack is the ever-moving, awe-inspiring, and at times hair-raising activity. The people, the food and the culture are so vibrant that it is a privilege to be able to capture it on camera. The most well known feature of Ho Chi Minh City is the traffic. The streets are jam-packed with motorbikes – in fact, the cities in Vietnam have the highest number of motorbikes per capita in the world (lifetime roadtax & insurans but the gas blady inexpensive RM3.80L correct me if i`m wrong :) )!

You cannot come to vietnam and be absolutely enamoured by the people. vietnamese people work hard but still take time to relax and enjoy themselves. One of the most charming sights is seeing a vietnamese woman dressed in an Ao Dai (i like it) and sauntering down the street or and elderly person finding some shade under a conical hat. In the evenings, locals come out in full force to spend time with friends at the local watering holes or the coffee shops ;yes, coffee joints were cool here long before they became popular in the rest of the world

If you’re taking a picture of a person though, ask their permission first. Most people don’t mind but be sure to show them the photo afterwards to put a smile on their face.

I was in vietnam just 2 days with hectic schedule this is the only picture I could shoot. so many other interesting places such as markets on the water, along the Mekong River and the historic buildings of the architect is very unusual.

I will come back for sure :) 

P/S : FOR OTHER PICTURE VISIT THE GALLERY 

An awesome travelling in 16- 20 June 2014 to South Sumatra Indonesia with 4 crazy friends (KHAIRUL AKA KILLERBEE, THANWAN SINGH,FAIZAL ORTHO & Our Camp Driver "WIDO"),  we start travelling from jakarta with MPV and change to 4WD in Bandar Lampung. The trip takes time about 15 hours, in port of merak we cross the teluk sunda to bakauheni port of lampung.

SUNSET KELUMBAYAN

KELUMBAYAN LAMPUNG

Kiluan Bay & Kelumbayan located in Lampung, Indonesia. This city is famous for its exotic beaches, including the pegadungan beach. This location is very natural and has not been visited by outside people even people neighbor village do not know where exactly name of Batu Layar, has steep sharp rocks and big waves. exciting journey to get to this exotic location.
Only few people know about this place because the people of Bandar Lampung doesn't attract for commercialing the place, they choose life with natural ecosystem they had.
Road to Kiluan Bay & Kelumbayan was quite bad. (Do not dare to try having a sleep inside car coz it will cost a dizzy head) actual road passable only by motorcycles, riding motorcycles is impossible for those who are not familiar, the road is very bad But the very bad road was paid with the wonderful blue-color-beach and the deserted ambience beach, so relaxed. Kiluan Bay & Kelumbayan is one of my recommended place to have a photography.

4x4

BIG THANKS TO PARENT OF FAIZAL ORTHO & ARY SYAHRIAL FOR AWESOME HOSPITALITY 

FOR MORE PHOTO VISIT THE GALLERY

NIGHT SEASCAPE

Alien Skin Exposure 5 is a great plug-in for adding film and film-like effects to your images. As serious software, it’s more than just filters. It starts with a huge array of presets, both black-and-white and color, to transform your photograph according to preset film types and processes. There are archaic ones like calotype, cinematic ones like Polapan, and more recent (discontinued "who miss this type of color") favorites like Kodachrome

Thus newbies like me i recommend this software plugin EXPOSURE 5 USD149 easy to use a lot tutorial.

"do not remember!" the bad picture can be beautiful after using this software,  This Software is the same as using the MSG aim is to increase "relish" the fact that the "original" was pretty good 

This photo below using BW TMAX400 effect, first u need clean,touch up like skin clothes or wat ever u want :)

POLARIOD EFFECT 

The software can be used as a standalone or as a plug-in for Adobe Photoshop, Photoshop Lightroom, and Apple Aperture, and works essentially the same way no matter what program you use to open it

Alien Skin add something to each version to make it more versatile for the digital photographer who wants to emulate a film look. The interface is very user friendly

P/S - Sorry for my bad English :) Peace Yooo!

The first touch & feel a new full frame sony A7 24MP & A7R 36MP its WOW! 

Yeah so far I can only hold a few minutes thanks to sony malaysia the curve damansara :)

 first, my personally i don`t like the place shutter button if them switch like NEX system i think will be better feel :) 'JUST ME" :) affordable cameras is widening oh yes!, even as the gulf in quality between said cameras and DSLRs narrows.They’re definitely the bomb for for all a street/landscaper  photographer :) like me just hobby user

U knew this guy? hehe! Masta Faizal Founder Alphanatic Indonesia

A7R 1/100 f/2.8 ISO 1000 35.0 mm

what i say this camera is WOW! for me ISO very impressive, and also auto focus fast,  hehe! btw im "Kawnon user currently just have EOS 5D mark III  

i hope sony/carl zeiss produce FE 24 1.4 :) I know for sure the price is very very expensive one lah :)

A7R 2.8 ISO10000 *YEAH SURE* 10k! 1/800 default fact

If give the option i choice A7 with blady expensive len FE 55/1.8 *a bit cheap not so cheap* , so my alternative use current lens its is Sonnar T 24mm f1.8 za who care? but just got 10mp come on man! :p

P/S: sorry my english very bad  

Due note this lens does not have OSS or built-in optical steady shot.  Being a wide-angle lens, the benefits of image stabilization are not as pronounced as they are on a longer lens because the stabilization system doesn't sense all that much movement with such a large area of coverage.  Sony claims the lens has eight elements in seven groups, including two surface aspherical elements and one ED element.  This lens is marked made in Japan

The emount camera and have been thoroughly impressed.This lens as a walk around and street lens, have fantastic color that seems to give three dimensional properties to your images. I`s also very fast at 1.8 full aperture full open is sharp across the frame and gives very contrasty foto, which is quite unique for a wide angle. It`s very light weight but sturdy and well finished. It comes with a nice plastic hood which fits well. this is what makes Zeiss famous and comparible with truly great lenses.
 

If put Image stabilization would be nice but would add weight and cost most likely. CA can be a little harsh if overexposed by much.  (though comparably not as bad as you think). but can correct via poss processing :)

It needs to be known e-mount and 24mm f1.8 worked together as an excellent combination to shoot some of the stunning photos in that post

Street

With that said though, I need to say that the bokeh quality of this lens is absolutely wonderful at f1.8. It doesn’t remind me of anything that Zeiss makes though nor does it have their characteristic micro-contrast.Most users will be pleasantly surprised with the capabilities of this lens. not only is the image quality an absolute beaut, but it also focuses extremely quickly and fast and almost silent.

Hometown

Cuties Girl