Exotissimo Travel Launch Specialist Photography
Workshops in ASIA led by International Photographer

See below the official release:

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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

(Bangkok, 19 January 2012) Exotissimo Travel, Asia’s leading DMC has unveiled a collection of niche photography workshop tours covering four top destinations in Southeast Asia. Each tour lasts between 6 – 10 days and is hosted by international photographer Gunther Deichmann who passes on his expertise in the field.

This novel selection of tours are open to all ages and abilities with professional photographer Gunther Deichmann teaching new techniques from basic to advanced over the course of each. It’s a fantastic opportunity to ask questions and gain first hand tutorial as you practice new methods. Gunther’s passion and friendly approach make his tours extremely popular and there is no doubt this series will prove just as well-liked.

All the essential elements of photography are covered with guests leaving confident in knowing how to compose the perfect shot. With over 30 years experience as a professional photographer, Gunther has worked in more than 25 countries with his camera and travelled extensively in Asia. His existing knowledge of the people and places means no time is wasted on these tours.

It's a rare opportunity to explore the unique cultural practices of a country while gaining insight into the architecture and heritage of a destination that few tourists see. The chance for spectacular photographic opportunities is unrivaled in these tours while also witnessing dramatic landscapes and meeting intriguing people that make remarkable subjects.

Gunther said, “I am delighted to be working with Exotissimo on these unique photography workshop tours. Each destination covered has its own distinctive qualities and cultural practices that we expose ourselves to, capturing the essence with our cameras while learning new techniques along the way.”

Ranging from 6 to 10 days, Exo are covering four of the most desired destinations in these photography workshops. This includes the alluring Vietnam, raw and charming Myanmar, stunningly beautiful Cambodia and enchanting Laos.
Click the LINKS to see the itineraries.

These tours have been designed by photographers with astounding photographic opportunities at every turn. They also encompass Exo’s philosophy of connecting with the people and culture of a place, as they take guests to many areas off the well trodden tourist path and into local areas where its possible to interact with villagers and learn about their way of life.

Gunther is also available for private tours. Please use contact details below for further details.

About Exotissimo Travel
Exotissimo Travel is a premier destination management company that specializes in tailor made tours in Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, Indonesia and Japan. Established in 1993, the company is now a network of 17 locally based offices staffing over 550 travel professionals, with sales offices in Florida, Paris, Berlin, Barcelona and Melbourne.

For more information, please contact:
Exotissimo Travel Group – Head Office Tel: (66 2) 633 9060 Email: marketing@exotissimo.com

Tags: NEWS, ASIA, travel professionals, expertise , top destinations, cultural practices, professional photographer, Southeast Asia, photographic opportunities, culture, private tours, Indonesia, Special Tours, Teaching, Gunther Deichmann , international photographer, Specialist Photography, Adventure Travel Tours, Expeditions, Indochina, Exotissimo, Discovery, Photography Workshops, Photo Workshops, MYANMAR/BURMA, laos, Latest NEWS, Cambodia, Vietnam, Tutorials

The story behind the photos…
female Elephants dress up for the occasion.

The envy look…female Elephant full body make-up, Jaipur, India
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Fancy meeting an Elephant in a beauty parlor, now that would be something right, but this is what happen in Jaipur with the exception the parlor is outside.

Who is going to be the prettiest today? Elephant body decor,
Jaipur, India
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During the Jaipur Elephant Festival Elephants turn into a kaleidoscope of colors not only decorated with body paint but also with elaborate glittering materials made form cloth.

Some of these majestic animals are covered from head to toe literally, ready for the yearly parade in Jaipur that is held and coincide with the Holi Festival. (festival of colors)
In India Elephants are regarded very precious since the old days and this is well illustrated in the Hindu Mythology.

The modern look...Elephant body decor, Jaipur, India
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According to some legends at the time of ‘Samudra Manthan’ when demons and Gods were busy in churning the ocean Gods were fortunate to receive an elephant called “Airavata” which later became the divine vehicle (vahana) of India

Since then the Elephant has become a symbol of royalty in Indian culture and many festivals are associated with it.
Jaipur Elephant Festival is perhaps the only festival where Elephants are given prime importance.

Lady in blue… Elephant body decor, Jaipur, India
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Flirting with me… Elephant body decor, Jaipur, India
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"Elephants cute manicured toe's", Jaipur, India
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During the festival, Jaipur comes alive with elephants, dancers and musicians, which draw visitors from all over the world. The elephants parading their decorated trunks and tusks however the most noticeable feature of this festival is that all Elephants who take part in this festival are female Elephants.

So there you have it, even in the Elephant world females go to the Beauty Parlor and dress up in the best attire for the occasion.
Besides having a raging bull in the crowed could spoil all the fun and festivities.

Wow…what a nice behind… Elephant decor Jaipur, India
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If you like to experience this amazing kaleidoscope of colors and roam around those gorgeous female Elephants then why don’t you join us on our GD Photo Workshop in 2013.

Part of our itinerary is Jaipur before leaving for Jodhpur the Blue City and the Thar Desert with its Camels.
For more info please Click this LINK.

Pls. Note: All images have been processed with Aperture 3 no other software or Photoshop has been used.

GD

What a pretty girl…ready for the big day…
Elephant decor Jaipur, India
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Tags: Adventure Travel Tours, Discovery, India, Hindu Mythology, Photo Workshop 2013, festival of colors, Female Elephants, Samudra Manthan, Events, Colours, Colors, kaleidoscope, Blue City, Jodhpur, Parading, Airavata, Thar Desert, Camels, GD Photo Workshop, Festival, Elephants, Rajasthan, Jaipur, Decorated, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Updated Calendar & GD Photo Workshop Site for
2012 and 2013.

We are pleased to announce a complete update and revised Calendar for 2012 & 2013 on our GD Photo Workshop Site. Added new destinations and exciting places like Indonesia-Australia plus additional special Myanmar tours.

All 2012 dates are confirmed, our itineraries and full details are available upon request or by our agent's Exotissimo website. We're traveling to some places rarely visited by others, hence making our workshops more unique and flexible that makes a lifetime experience for you to remember.

Take for example our new and next Myanmar Journey in 2012 - this Special Trip was designed by Photographers for Photographers.

June 29 - July 09, 2012 - 11 special days of pure adventure and amazing photography.
Max. of 10 Participants only

On this journey we will explore the remote parts of the country but also some of the known places. We promise that this will be a very exciting and special trip.
For more info and details please CLICK this LINK.
GD

Tags: Exotissimo, Photography, GD PhotoWorkshop, Calendar, Ayers Rock, Borobudur, Central Australia, Rainbow Valley, Kakadu National Park, Special Tours, TRAINING, Australia, Nepal, Vietnam, India, Sri Lanka, MYANMAR/BURMA, laos, Cambodia, Indonesia, Indochina, Explore, Expeditions, Discovery, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, Adventure, ASIA, Thar Desert, Adventure Travel Tours

A Walk Through Time…
Kulen's past and present.

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Below is a very short excerpt from a seven (7) page article in the latest Asian Geographic magazine on Phnom Kulen and its hidden treasures in Cambodia.

Tags: Adventure, Discovery, Ancient, ASIA, Didier Faraud, Waterfall, Jamie Irena Rayer-Keet, Archaeology, Heritage Adventures, Heritage Suites Hotel, Empire, Elephant Pond, Bat Cave, archaeologists , Jungle, Adventure Travel, 10th century, Bantey Srei, Angkor Wat, treasure, Phnom Kulen , reclining Buddha, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, Siem Reap Cambodia, Khmer, Buddhism, Cambodia, Caves, ASIAN Geographic Magazine

Just one beautiful afternoon in Amarapura,
Mandalay, Myanmar.

Thank you for your continuous support, wishing you all
a very Happy New Year!

It was during our last GD Photo Workshop near Mandalay in Myanmar when we visited the U Beins Teak Wood Bridge in Amarapura at sunset. What a beautiful afternoon it turned out to be, blessed and lucky with the weather we encountered some stunning light right up to dusk.

U Beins Teak Wood Bridge in Amarapura, Myanmar
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The 1.2 km wooden footbridge (longest teak bridge in the world) built by the mayor U Bein salvaging the unwanted teak columns from the old palace during the move to Mandalay.

U Beins Teak Wood Bridge in Amarapura, Myanmar
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Local boatman at the U Beins Teak Wood Bridge in
Amarapura, Myanmar
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Join us for another breathtaking journey through Myanmar on our upcoming GD Photo Workshop in June 2012, visiting not only the well known places but also more remote parts of this truly amazing Country.
Please check for more information and complete itinerary with our exclusive travel agent & partner EXOTISSIMO Website.
Testimonials from previous participants please CLICK THIS LINK.  

U Beins Teak Wood Bridge in Amarapura, Myanmar
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U Beins Teak Wood Bridge in Amarapura, Myanmar
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For our other published destinations: Sri Lanka - Central India - Bhutan - Vietnam - Laos & Cambodia please CLICK this LINK our Photo Workshop Calendar in ASIA for 2012

GD

U Beins Teak Wood Bridge in Amarapura, Myanmar
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Local boatman near the U Beins Teak Wood Bridge in
Amarapura, Myanmar
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U Beins Teak Wood Bridge in Amarapura, Myanmar
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View more images from Myanmar and other destinations in my Photoshelter Archives & Galleries, please click this LINK

Tags: U Beins Teak Wood Bridge, Photo Workshops, ASIA, Adventure Travel Tours, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Indochina, Vietnam, laos, Bhutan, Teak Wood , Mandalay, Amarapura, MYANMAR/BURMA, GD Photo Workshop

Bizarre, strange, utterly weird & disgusting…
photos from along the road.



What happen to this Buddha Statue?But I love the colors.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

During most of my travels I come across the nice and beautiful things our planet has to offer. The funny, bizarre and strange encounters, but sometimes I see things rather unpleasant. Like the time I discovered the unloading of massive shark fins in Indonesia, and I am talking about massive!

Little explanation is needed for most of the photos below, with the exception of the disgusting ones.
This is a small collection of unusual images from my recent trips.
GD

From the Van window… Christmas shopping?
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Strange Bubbles…at a local market.
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Weird food…but actually very nice.
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Strange…no explanation needed.
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Bizarre…Novice Buddhist Monks and Guns…
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Wow! Hi-tech at the Cambodia/Thailand Border crossing
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A weird outdoor bar with bargirl/barboy?
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Utterly weird & strange food…
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Totally disgusting and very sad…
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Strange…drying meat.
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Totally disgusting and very sad…Bear Paws
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Totally disgusting and very sad…
Bear paws are considered a delicacy, and have been priced at $250 each.
Here they are inside a glass with Alcohol, drinking this concoction
is supposed to be a remedy for different types of illnesses and an
Aphrodisiac…what a lot of Bull….
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Through the Van window…
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Tags: Bizarre, strange, strange food, Bear Paws, Aphrodisiac, Buddhism, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, Unusual, ASIA, Disgusting, Environment

I am featured with some nine pages and a couple shots on the cover but this special issue of Asian Geographic includes also other amazing photographers like:

Michael Yamashita - Steve McCurry - Michael Freeman - David Doubilet - Joe Quinn - Steve De Neef - John Arifin - Aaron Wong - Alexander Mustard - Michael Aw - Tri Huu Luu and William Chua

This is a copy you should get your hands on, lots of cool information, references, techniques and stunning great Photos below and above the waves.

I have created a pdf file with Keynote and you can check it out under publications on my main site under spreads or covers. Click the photos above or this LINK.
GD

Tags: One Asia Festival, SINGAPORE, Michael Freeman, ASIAN Geographic Magazine, ASIA Without Borders, PUBLISHING, Steve McCurry, Michael Yamashita, Special edition

Singapore ONE ASIA - Images of Asia round up
& the latest on GD Photo Workshops in ASIA.

A quick round up from my recent trip to Singapore where I attended the ONE ASIA festival as a speaker and Judge for the Images without Borders together with Michael Yamashita and Steve McCurry.

Besides the event I caught up also with good old friends, in particular Michael Freeman who I had not seen for a very long time.
It was great to go back in time at breakfast in our Hotel or during some quiet moments at the event.

But I also caught up with some of my Photo Workshop Students and friends in particle Christina Feldt from Germany and Chia Loy Chuan with his charming wife from Singapore.
Thanks to Christina and Loy for taken some of the photos during the event.

My gratitude to John Thet, Publisher of Asian Geographic Magazine and Organizer of the ONE ASIA Event for inviting me again this year.

Thanks also to the staff at Asian Geographic Magazine for taken care of behind the scenes and assisting me throughout the event.
I also found the time to get my last roll of film (Ektachrome) processed and scanned in Singapore, I post an interesting article about this exercise shortly.


There is also more NEWS on our Adventure Travel GD Photo Workshops with EXOTISSIMO for 2012.

For the Itineraries, info and the latest updates please click the photos or the LINKS below. Testimonials from previous participants.

Myanmar 2012, this is going to be an amazing &
very special Journey.

Indochina 2012, Vietnam - Laos - Cambodia

Other destinations and complete Calendar for 2012

GD

Tags: SINGAPORE, Events, Michael Freeman, ASIA, Michael Yamashita, Adventure Travel Tours, Exotissimo, MYANMAR/BURMA, Indochina, Photo Workshops, Steve McCurry, ASIAN Geographic Magazine, Images without Borders, One Asia Festival

Travel Adventure GD Photo Workshops now
with Exotissimo, Myanmar & Indochina.
The Itinerary for 2012…
plus the ONE ASIA Event in Singapore.

I am currently in Singapore as a Guest speaker (Geographical Travel Photography) for the ONE ASIA Images of Asia Festival hosted and organized by the Asian Geographic Magazine .

Also I am part of the Live Judging together with Steve McCurry and Michael Yamashita on December 10 for this years Images without Borders Photo competition.
So, if you in Singapore please drop by the Suntec Center and join us for this years ONE ASIA Festival.

Furthermore we have been notified this morning that our Itinerary for Indochina: LAOS - VIETNAM - CAMBODIA

and Myanmar is now available at the Exotissimo website, our NEW Partner for the GD Photo Workshops in Asia. Click the LINKS for details.

We've worked out some amazing destinations within these Countries for more info click on the LINKS or the images above.

NOTE: There are still a couple of spots available for Sri Lanka - Central India and Bhutan in 2012 (for Bhutan only 2 more spots avail.) for more info pls click this LINK.
GD

Tags: GD PhotoWorkshop, ASIA, laos, Cambodia, Live Judging, Sri Lanka, Guest Speaker, Bhutan, Central India, ASIA Without Borders, ASIAN Geographic Magazine, MYANMAR/BURMA, SINGAPORE, Suntec, Michael Yamashita, Steve McCurry, One Asia Festival, Adventure Travel Tours, Indochina, Vietnam

Twelve Asian faces from 2011…
thoughtful, bizarre, happy, sad + one sleepy.

India 2011
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In a few more days 2011 is coming to an end and I am now preparing for my last trip this year to Singapore, leaving in a couple of days.

I am part again of the ONE ASIA Festival - Celebrate the Images of Asia as a Speaker and Judge for the Asia Without Borders Photo Competition.

I am really looking forward to catch up again with Michael Yamashita who was there also last year, and get together with Steve McCurry, Michael Freeman and Manuel Librodo plus many others, and of course with some good old friends.

Hope to see some of you there; for detailed information on the ONE ASIA FESTIVAL please click the LINKS.

But before I report from Singapore (I know the connection will be fine this time) I like to share with you some images taken in 2011, people from Cambodia, India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Myanmar.

“The bizarre, happy and sad.” People of all walks of life; their culture, tradition and every day life.

Nepal 2011
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India 2011
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India 2011
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Sri Lanka 2011
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Myanmar 2011
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Sri Lanka 2011
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Cambodia 2011
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Myanmar 2011
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Myanmar 2011
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Myanmar 2011
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THINK! Nepal 2011
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Just one more…and sleepy.




Myanmar 2011
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PLEASE NOTE:
Check our updated GD PhotoWorkshop Calendar for 2012, with exciting and new destinations throughout ASIA.
http://www.deichmann-photo.com/gdphotoworkshop/page1/calendar.html

Tags: People, Cambodia, ASIA Without Borders, GD Photo Workshop, Judge, Photo Contest, Michael Yamashita, Faces, SINGAPORE, Speaker, ASIAN Geographic Magazine, One Asia Festival, Michael Freeman, Steve McCurry, Sri Lanka, Bizarre, Culture, Nepal, Events, MYANMAR/BURMA, Happy, TRADITION, Sad

The Journey continues through Laos - Cambodia & Myanmar
its beautiful people and true colors.

A question I get ask all the time, and a quote by Imogen Cunningham sums it up nicely.

“ Which of my photographs is my favorite?
The one I’m going to take tomorrow." – Imogen Cunningham




Inle Lake, Myanmar
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Laotian Monks looking towards Thailand, it is here where the
Mekong River separates these two Countries, Vientiane, Laos
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

I am always in search for true colors and besides the question above, which is my favorite photograph I also get often ask about my colors. The colors in my images are real and have not been manipulated using editing software.

"I have seen colors which I thought didn't exist, but they do." - Gunther Deichmann

One of many Battambang's Monasteries, Cambodia
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Amazing colors are all around us, finding and seeking the right combination one needs to see; no need to distort something which is already provided by nature or human. It is all out there, in front of us ready for the taking with what ever camera you use, let your eyes guide you, separating colors from the background.

Lets look at the world through our eyes, not through photo-editing tools. But have said that, we almost don't get a choice these days…in the digital age we have to use Computers and editing softwares; I am still looking for a roll of Ektachrome to be processed, that I shot recently in Cambodia. My last roll of film? If I ever get it processed…

Festival time on Inle Lake, Myanmar
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Battambang, Cambodia
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All my camera settings are pretty much set on default and my images are processed with Aperture 3 using only the RAW Image conversion, color temperature, slightly sharpening, a little contrast and the usual cropping/straightening tools and of course getting rid of sensor dust, that little evil thing in digital photography.

During the film days we didn't have all those tools, you had to do a lot of bracketing and if you missed it then that was-it. Now we have all these options, but I honestly believe in Travel, Nature, Journalism, Geographical Photography etc., we should tell the truth.

Bagan, Myanmar
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Mandalay, Myanmar
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Luang Prabang, Laos
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Luang Prabang, Laos
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Moving Nuns - Kyauk Se Monastery, Myanmar
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Phnom Kulen, Cambodia
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Just one more...

Tonle Sap, Cambodia
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Essentially, I have made no changes since the good old Kodachrome film days on how I approach and create images today. My approach and my soul are the same, and this is my philosophy about light and color.
GD

Tags: Kodachrome, Film, Aperture 3.2.1, Colours, Ektachrome, Colors, manipulated, Imogen Cunningham, editing software, RAW Image, sharpening, photo-editing tools

The endless Journey Continues…

Working with what you've got…even Tourists come in
handy sometimes, the story behind the photos.

During our recent GD Photo Workshop in Laos we visited the Pak Ou caves overlooking the Mekong River some 25 km from Luang Prabang in Laos; it is here where the mouth of the River Ou meets the mighty Mekong.
A group of caves on the left side of the Mekong river, about two hours boat ride upstream from Luang Prabang.

I had visited the lower cave called Tham Ting (lower cave) some 20 years ago and with the exception of more tourists swarming around and more Buddha statues were deposited, little had changed over the years.
Hundreds of Buddha statues and relics in all shape and sizes have been brought here over many years by loyal Buddhist devotees.

Mind you 20 years ago I was the only visitor to this cave and actually could crawl around more easily, but that is not possible anymore.

20 years ago Pak Ou Caves Tham Ting (lower cave)
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It is a difficult task to shoot or create interesting Images when so many Tourist get in the way…
but I guess they also have the right to be there.
Oh my… I am so glad I visited this place 20 years ago…
hmmm sounds a bit selfish.

Pak Ou Caves Tham Ting (lower cave) Sept. 2011
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After about 45 minutes our Group decided to move on to the upper cave Tham Theung in the hope for better shooting conditions. I had never been to this cave before and someone told us it is some 150 steps up…ha, ha, it felt more like 300 steps.

After some puffing and sweating we made it… only to find out, there is zero light insight. Oh boy…did I sweat and puff for nothing?
With no Tripod and only the little pop up flash on my Nikon D300s (left my D700 in the boat and was in no mood to climb the stairs again) I thought this is going to be a tough one, besides this cave was big.

Upper Cave Tham Theung - Sept. 2011
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But luck was on our side, at the entrance of the cave a local woman selling flashlights for hire to Tourists. Upon entering the cave I realized that even with these flashlights there is no way of getting any decent images…

I almost gave up, when all of a sudden a large group of Italian Tourist appeared, all equipped with the for hire flashlights; and for sure a good business day for the local lady at the entrance, ha, ha.

Upper Cave Tham Theung - Sept. 2011
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The only thing left for me to do… finding a suitable “Tripod” a crack, a ledge, anything on the cave wall facing the right direction.

I got it… jammed the camera into a crack, pushed hard and holding on (you might end up with a few scratches on your Camera but other then that, it works, besides holding your breath) now I instructed my assistant Arj to shine his torch towards the temple area.

There was also Mojan left behind from our Group, who at the time of the exposure was still wondering around and exploring the cave; of course this added a bit of extra light too.

Upper Cave Tham Theung - Sept. 2011
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But I still did not get enough light for a good and usable shot… then the Italian Tourists entered the cave and came to my rescue… shining their flashlights in all direction…wow and thank you.

I left the shutter open for about 4 seconds and let the Tourists paint the cave for me with their flashlights.

I might mention that my ISO setting was not very high either, I try to avoid using super high ISO setting whenever possible.
My setting for most of these shots: Focal Lengths 18mm, 640 ISO f/5.6 and varying the exposure between 4 and 6 sec. bracketing my exposure as much as possible and NO flash.

So there you have it, sometimes Tourist’s do come in very handy and in this case they added also scale to the image.

On the other hand how could I have done these shots 20 years ago? There were no Tourists and the upper cave was off limits...

GD

Tags: Tourists, Caves, Luang Prabang, GD PhotoWorkshop, laos, Italian Tourist, rescue, River Ou, Tham Ting, flashlights, Nikon D300s, NO flash, Focal Lengths, Mekong River, Adventure Travel Tours, Tham Theung, Buddha statues

The Students Work; from the GD Photo Workshops
in Laos-Cambodia & Myanmar.



Click on the image above or the LINKS for all the Students Work.
Please note you might have to refresh your Browser.

I keep this text very brief today and rather let the Images do the talking, we have ask our participants to select their personal favored Photos from the last three workshops.
They made their selection without any interference or adjustments by my assistant or myself.

The images posted had been sent to us and we posted them unaltered the way we received them, we only resized them to make them fit for the web.

Please do respect the copyright of all the persons who submitted their images and refrain from copying any images in any way. Thank You.

All of the participants did real well, in particular some our newbies surprised me pleasantly.
Enjoy the photos from the participants who at times had to work very hard to create these cool images.

We have also updated the testimonials and our GD Photo Workshop site with a new announcement in the Calendar for a very special Myanmar GD Photo Workshop in 2012.
GD

Tags: Students Work, PHOTOS, MYANMAR/BURMA, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, Adventure Travel Tours, GD Photo Workshop, Images, Participants, laos, Cambodia

Deja vu…recreating a Photo at the same location…
but 12 years later in Myanmar, the story behind the Photo

I visited Nyaung Shwe also known as Yawnghwe) a town a few kilometers north of Inle Lake in the Shan State of Myanmar for the first time some 12 years ago.
While driving through the town I spotted this amazing Monastery build out of Teakwood during the 19th Century with a Novice Monk standing at the oval shape window.

Oh boy… what a nice image I thought…so I loaded another roll of film in this case Kodachrome Pro 200 ASA and started to shoot. Years have past now and many images have been produced by a variety of Photographers with and without Monks at this Monastery.

I might add that the shot I took 12 years ago was not at all a setup; it just so happens that this Monk was actually standing at the window when I spotted it and this photo was later published many times.
Now 12 years later and during our GD Photo Workshop last October we made a stop at this remarkable Monastery again.

Kodachrome Pro 200 ASA or Digital?
Copyright all Rights reserved. Mandatory credit with image use:
© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

I had actually planned this all along to re create the image I took some 12 years ago, but of course there was very little hope that a Monk was standing again at the window. Well…we arrived and sure enough there was NO Monk standing there.

Kodachrome Pro 200 ASA or Digital?
Copyright all Rights reserved. Mandatory credit with image use:
© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

OK I thought, let’s recreate the images and I ask politely one of the Novice Monks to stand in about the same position at the window, then I went outside and took the image.

I normally don’t set shots up, but in this case I found it interesting what I could come up with, shooting digital instead of Kodachrome film from the same location but 12 years later.

An interesting exercise and the Monk I had picked was about the same age from what I remembered years ago.
I let you decide which of the two images featured is Digital or Kodachrome 200 film, I might add that the digital image was shot at the same 200 ISO and no Photoshop or other manipulation has been used.

I only used Aperture 3 with the raw conversion, some straightening, a little cropping (the same in the Kodachrome Image) added a little contrast, minor sharpening and adjusted the color temperature to daylight taken in to consideration the overcast sky.

This amazing teakwood monastery has not changed much at all except for the surrounding areas that have now additional more modern looking buildings, other than that it was pretty much the same.
The monastery is over 150 years old and sits on sturdy stilts, a protection for occasional flooding coming from the Inle Lake.

The temple next to the Monastery
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Next to the monastery you can find a small but very amazing temple that is absolutely worth a visit, housing hundreds of little Buddha statues and incredible artwork along the walls.

The temple next to the Monastery
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

So, there you have it 12 years later, little has changed and I hope it will stay like this for many more years to come.
GD

Tags: MYANMAR/BURMA, ASIA, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, Nyaung Shwe , Monasteries, Shan State, Inle Lake , Kodachrome, Film, Aperture 3.2.1, Digital

The story behind the photos…
“A little Girl and her simple way recycling soft drink cans.”

This is the story about a little Girl at Phnom Sampeou, (Killing Caves) in the rural area of Battambang.

It was during our last Photo Workshop in Cambodia and we just finished the day at Phnom Sampeou, worn out and thirsty!
We bought some soft drinks at the local store and waiting for the million of bats to appear out of
a cave at dusk along the road, it was our last shoot for the day.

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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

All of a sudden this little girl appeared, collecting the empty cans, sorting them out and given me the occasional shy look.

I was watching her and kept shooting a few frames now and then, as she playfully emptied the leftovers before she arranged the cans along the road.

By now it was getting very dark and I had to push my ISO higher as she kept arranging the cans in a very playful manner and I was wondering…is she collecting them or is she just playing?

Vehicles and pushbikes going by, but this little girl was paying no attention to the traffic or our group, she just kept on lining up her cans.

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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Now neatly arranged, she suddenly started to jump up an down flattening the cans with her feet, picked them up and disappeared as quick as she had arrived.

Copyright all Rights reserved. Mandatory credit with image use:
© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com


Copyright all Rights reserved. Mandatory credit with image use:
© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

The process of a very simple recycling was complete, I am sure the only thing left to do for her was to take the flattened cans and sell them for a few Riel (Cambodian currency) at the local Village.
GD

Tags: Recycling, Cans, iSO, Battambang, Cambodia, Softdrinks, Poverty, Phnom Sampeou, Riel, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, Killing Caves

It started all with…
Johnny Depp En route to Bangkok.

Click on Johnny above or the LINKS but please NOTE since we done some major updates on my Blog and the GD Photo Workshop site you might have to REFRESH your Browser in order for you to see the latest images.

The Photos from Behind the Scenes are now uploaded and ready for viewing…the action, the fun from all these super nice participants in the field covering Laos-Cambodia and Myanmar.

Uploaded also some of the Testimonials from our last Journey.

Their work (The Students Work) will also be up in about a week and I keep you posted when this is done, but from what I have seen already there are some very nice images amongst them…in short, everybody did real well.
But now enjoy the fun part "Behind The Scene"… and as mention above, it all started with Johnny Depp on my way to Bangkok with Arj and David entertaining myself with the iPhone and my little Leica on the way.

The photos Behind the Scene are not in any particular order, taken by my self, Arj and by some of the participants using what ever camera was handy at the time, from iPhones, point and shoot and DSLR's.

You might take also note that we have moved the “Behind the Scene” and “The Students Work” now to the GD Photo Workshop pages and removed it from my Blog.
Everything is under one roof now and we can leave the previous workshop pages active, which would not have been possible on my Blog.

Thanks again to all the participants who joined my last Journey Through Color &Time. They came from Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia, USA, Philippines, Spain, Germany and Australia.
Ladies first…Christina and Vi. The Boys: Bob, Tony, David, Bebet, Mojan, Rod, Loy and Richard and Arj my trusted assistant. (Thanks for your tireless help in Laos and Cambodia unfortunately you could not make it with us to Myanmar)

We did a lot of very cool photography…but more so had a lot of fun and that is what Photography should be.

As a reminder we have finalized also our next Workshops for Sri Lanka – Central India and Bhutan and have only few more spots available.
We have scheduled also an additional Very Special Workshop for Myanmar for the end of June 2012; full details will be announced shortly.
Until very soon, GD

Tags: Johnny Depp, Exotissimo, Thai Airways, ASIA, Photo Workshops, Adventure Travel Tours, Participants, Behind the Scene

Through the car window… using the iPhone & my little
Leica, plus my favorite Quote by Ernst Haas.



Through the Taxi window with the iPhone, Manila Philippines
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Finished the last Aperture 3 advanced tutorial at the Power Mac Center last week, got some important meetings out of my way and now the TIME has come…the packing has started (mind you very light) for our Cultural - Archaeological, Travel and Adventure GD Photo Workshops to Laos - Cambodia and Myanmar.
I report whenever possible but my Blog Posts will be a bit thin from now on, however I try to stay in touch via Facebook and Twitter.

Through the car window with the iPhone, street vendor during heavy
rain selling Sampaguita ... the national flower of the
Philippines, Manila Philippines
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com



With the iPhone, on the road from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

In todays post, definitely the last one prior my departure (next one I have no clue from where) I have chosen only images taken with my iPhone and my little Leica D-Lux 4 which are my companion most of the time and the reason for my favorite quote by Ernst Haas; read the complete story below:

Street Children - through the Taxi window with my little Leica,
Manila Philippines
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Ernst Haas commented on this in a workshop in 1985:
Two laddies from Nova Scotia had made a huge effort to be there and were great Leica fans, worked in a camera store, saved to have them and held Ernst on high for being a Leica user (although he used Nikons on his Marlboro shoots, when the chips were down).   
About four days into the workshop, he finally maxxed out on the Leica adoration these kids displayed, and in the midst of a discussion, when one of them asked one more question aimed at establishing the superiority of Wetzlar;

Ernst said, "Leica, schmeica.  The camera doesn't make a bit of difference.  All of them can record what you are seeing.  But, you have to SEE."  

Nobody talked about Leica, Nikon, Canon or any other brand of camera equipment for the rest of the workshop.  
He also said, "Best wide-angle lens?  'Two steps backward' and 'look for the ah-ha'."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ernst_Haas

Street Children - through the Taxi window with my little Leica,
Manila Philippines
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com



Street Children cleaning the car windows for a few centavos -
through the Taxi window with my little Leica,
Manila Philippines
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Just one more…



Ferme le Lundi - French for "Closed on Monday"
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Yep, that is me in 1992 outside a French Cafe in Phnom Penh and my first visit to Cambodia covering a story on the Mekong River for Animan Magazine, no digital…no laptops, etc. just the good old film…and a bit younger mind you. Since then I have been visiting Cambodia almost yearly, continuously discovering the undiscovered…
and definitely Ferme Le Lundi!
Now the endless Journey continuos…until soon from where ever I might be…GD.

Tags: Ernst Haas, TRAINING, Photo Workshops, laos, GD Photo Workshop, Ferme Le Lundi, Leica, Leica D-Lux 4, MYANMAR/BURMA, Power Mac Center, Aperture 3, Cambodia, Photography Today, Adventure Travel Tours, Photo Journalism

Shoot it! People & Culture in Asian
Geographic Passport Magazine August 2011



Click the image above or this LINK for a
larger view and the pdf file, click on SPREADS.

Asian Geographic Passport Magazine has just published an article on People & Culture, Tips and tricks on travel Photography, for more info and other interesting articles get your copy now. (August Issue 2011)

This will also be one of my last Blog posts before I am leaving for Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar, not enough time while on the road and some areas have non or very poor internet connection. However I try to update everybody via my iPhone on Facebook and Twitter now and then. Of course and this goes without saying, I try my very best to post an update here on my Blog when ever it is possible…the endless Journey continuos.

Shortly we start our last major GD Photo Workshops for 2011 to Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar and for those who could not make it (we're fully booked) check out my report/Blog posts on my return with photos from behind the scenes and selected image by our participants. For previous photos behind the scene, testimonials and photos by the participant click the LINKS.
For information on all our GD Photo Workshops in 2012 use this link.

An exciting Journey just around the corner with some very cool surprises and announcements along the way, not to mention our 5th year anniversary in Cambodia which we celebrate at the Heritage Suites Hotel our base in Siem Reap.

Thanks and welcome to our NEW Partner in Asia EXOTISSIMO,
more information about this very exciting news very soon.

Laos is going to be amazing with its mountains and spectacular scenery and our base in Luang Prabang at the Satri House, in Cambodia we venture into some of the lesser know areas by 4x4 wheel drives, then in Myanmar we have a the full moon with us in Bagan and on the Inle Lake intercepting a very cool Burmese festival along the way.

Thanks again to all my participants for joining this Workshop and I am sure all of them getting ready and excited now to discover the undiscovered.

Our new mini Poster available as pdf upon request.

If I don't find the time anymore for another post prior my departure pls. stay tuned or check your Twitter and Facebook for updates via my iPhone.

GD

Tags: TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, Adventure Travel Tours, Cambodia, Tips, MYANMAR/BURMA, Tricks, laos, Photo Workshops, ASIAN Geographic Magazine, Techniques, Tutorials

Laos - Cambodia - Myanmar…
three amazing destinations with the GD Photo Workshops.




Hill Tribes at the Thai-Lao Border
Copyright all Rights reserved. Mandatory credit with image use:
© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Hill Tribes at the Thai-Lao Border
Copyright all Rights reserved. Mandatory credit with image use:
© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

September is only around the corner before we set off to another adventure, traveling from Thailand on the 22nd by road to Laos, from here we go overland to Luang Prabang exploring this amazing country by road.

I have included some photos from my previous trip to Northern Thailand and Laos, images I took on assignment covering the Mekong River for Animan Magazine in Switzerland, a three month Journey many years ago and taken on Kodachrome film.

After about a week in Laos we travel from Luang Prabang by plane to Pakse and then again by road to Siem Reap in Cambodia for our second GD Photo Workshop.

BTW this is our 5th anniversary for our workshops in Cambodia and I am sure we find some time to celebrate it with some drinks at our Base the Heritage Suites Hotel. After Siem Reap we hit the road again to Battambang where we spend our remaining days in Cambodia exploring this amazing town with its french colonial buildings and the surrounding areas including a trip to Phnom Ek and the Killing Caves.

After Battambang some participants will join me for the road trip from Siem Reap to Bangkok, here we wait for others to arrive before we fly out two days later to Myanmar for some 10 days… discovering the undiscovered.
I am sure everybody is getting excited by now, including myself for this truly adventures Journey soon to start in Bangkok, only a few more weeks and we're on the road.

I am also happy to announce that we're fully booked for all three workshops and for those who missed out this time please check our Calendar for 2012, exotic destinations are planned to Sri Lanka - Central India - Bhutan (for Bhutan only two more spots available) Tibet - Mongolia and later in the year Vietnam - Laos - Cambodia (for this one we have worked out a very special Itinerary, this one will be awesome). We're also taking bookings now for Sri Lanka-Central India and Bhutan.

For more info, testimonials from previous participants, behind the scenes, students photos, bookings/reservations and Calendar just click the LINKS, thank you.

My thanks to all our partners who have been instrumental in preparing and organizing some of theses difficult destinations; Alexia from Exotissimo Travel Thailand and Laos, The Heritage Suites Hotel Relais & Chateaux and The Heritage Adventures in Cambodia and the Satri House Relais & Chateaux in Laos.

But most of all my sincere thanks to all the participants who are coming from the USA, Australia, Germany, Spain, Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia and the Philippines…almost a United Nations gathering…ha, ha.

Of course once on the road I try and report from our locations and update my Blog, but that depends on the internet connection and speed, however you can follow me on Facebook and Twitter for some short updates via my iPhone.

Laos

Laos has a rich history stretching back 10,000 years. At its height, it ruled over present day Laos and much of neighboring northern Thailand. Landlocked and laid-back, it’s a unique spin on the Southeast Asia experience.

Luang Prabang, Laos
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Luang Prabang, Laos
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Here Buddhism permeates every facet of life, change comes slowly, and cities bed down early. The perfect place to break from office politics or put a pause in a hyperactive travel agenda, this land of mountain, mists and untamed natural beauty tempts with unrivaled peace and serenity.
Open your heart, open your mind, and let the genuine faith and generous hospitality of Laos replenish your soul.

Cambodia

Situated on the Indochinese peninsula, Cambodia is bordered by Thailand and Laos on the North and Vietnam on the East and south. The Gulf of Thailand is off the western coast. The size of Missouri, the country consists chiefly of a large alluvial plain ringed by mountains with the Mekong River to the East. The plain is revolved around Lake Tonle Sap, which is a natural storage basin of the Mekong.

Angkor Wat Siem Reap, Cambodia
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Siem Reap, the provincial ancient capital of Cambodia serves as the gateway to the millennium-old temple ruins of the Angkorian-era Khmer Empire. Designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Angkor Archaeological Park encompasses dozens of temple ruins including Bayon and the legendary Angkor Wat, whose artistic and archaeological significance and visual impact put it in the same league as the other iconic wonders of the world like the Pyramids, Machu Pichu and Taj Mahal.

The temple ruins of Angkor, Cambodia
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

To experience an inimitable Cambodian culture, history and life, you will visit historic monastic complexes like Pre Rup, Preah Khan, Ta Prohm and Phnom Kulen and the Tonle Sap Lake.

Shy Boy at Angkor Wat, Cambodia
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Butterfly's at Phnom Kulen, Cambodia
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com



Bayon and its many faces, Cambodia
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Not to be missed are Heritage sites like Angkor Wat and The Bayon as well as the Cambodian sunrise, which all provide great photo opportunities for you to hone your photography skills and capture your tapestry of Siem Reap’s rich culture, people and heritage as seen through your Eyes.

Hidden temples during the wet season, Cambodia
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Buddhist Caves
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Depending on weather conditions, we always have a couple surprises visiting also places seldom seen by others. This might change our original itinerary slightly...but this can certainly be very interesting and adventures.

Amazing Myanmar
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Myanmar/Burma

Slightly smaller than Texas, Myanmar occupies the Thailand/Cambodia portion of the Indochinese peninsula. India lies to the Northwest and China to the Northeast. Bangladesh, Laos, and Thailand are also neighbors. The Bay of Bengal touches the Southwest coast. The fertile delta of the Irrawaddy River in the South contains a network of interconnecting canals and nine principal river mouths.

Hill Tribes in northern Myanmar
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com



Myanmar Silk
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

The ethnic origins of modern Myanmar (known historically as Burma) are a mixture of Indo-Aryans, who began pushing into the area around 700 B.C. , and the Mongolian invaders under Kublai Khan who penetrated the region in the 13th century. Anawrahta (1044–1077) was the first great unifier of Myanmar.

A happy face amongst eggplants, Yangon Market, Myanmar
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

In 1612, the British East India Company sent agents to Burma, but the Burmese doggedly resisted efforts of British, Dutch, and Portuguese traders to establish posts along the Bay of Bengal. Through the Anglo-Burmese War in 1824–1826 and two subsequent wars, the British East India Company expanded to the whole of Burma. By 1886, Burma was annexed to India, then became a separate colony in 1937.

Just one more…



Monk watching a local Soccer Game, Yangon Myanmar
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

GD

Tags: Cambodia, laos, MYANMAR/BURMA, Thailand, ASIA, Discovery, Photo Workshops, Adventure Travel Tours, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY

New confirmed and final dates for
Sri Lanka - Central India - Bhutan 2012

Check our GD Photo Workshop Calendar for more info


SRI LANKA - INDIA 2012- 5 more spots available
March 11 to March 25, 2012
Max. of 10 Participants

Join us for two amazing Adventure GD Photo Workshops to Sri Lanka and Central India.

Breathtaking wildlife and awesome scenery in Sri Lanka plus amazing culture including the Dambulla Cave Temple dating to the first Century BC and a lot more will be on our itinerary. Explore the beauty of Sri Lanka and discover the undiscovered. Our central India workshop will take you back in time; to some seldom seen Cave temples, namely the Ellora and Ajanta cave system.


BHUTAN 2012 Only 3 more spots available, hurry this workshop is filling up very fast. Bookings will close by latest September 15th, 2011
March 27 - April 05, 2012 - 9 Nights
Max. of 8 Participants

This trip covers the highlights of Western Bhutan and focuses on Talo festival. Talo Tsechu is held in the ground near Talo Dzong or Monastery. The village of Talo, high on the hills above Punakha is located at an altitude 2800m. The village is scattered along the hill slopes. Talo Sangnacholing is built on a plateau with has majestic view of surrounding villages.  More details and the complete itinerary is available soon.
For bookings and reservations CLICK this LINK

Tags: ASIA, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Central India, GD Photo Workshop, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, Adventure Travel Tours, Ajanta, Ellora

Digital Dark Room and Aperture 3 plus some more
interesting info on the Big Cat the Lion OS X

Hands on…The Digital Dark Room and Aperture 3, we finished yesterday our first session for this week, (three hours per session) now another 2 more to go and a special advanced one at the Power Mac Center on the weekend. All this week we have Aperture 3 action, and 3 more days next week.

The Digital Dark Room with Aperture 3 has been organized in cooperation with Power Mac Center and Filipinas Heritage Library. Special thanks to my Assistant Arj, Mark, Joseph and Jeoffrey from the technical support team at PMC for helping out behind the scene. And of course thanks for the ever so organized Cecille from the Filipinas Heritage Library.

Yesterday afternoon Aperture 3 and the Digital Dark Room at
Power Mac Center Makati, Manila Philippines

We show you the ultimate way of editing your photos with Apple's Aperture 3 software, creating proper back ups, how to add music to your Aperture 3 slideshow using GarageBand plus a lot more. The technical staff from Power Mac Center is also around to help with technical questions and trouble shooting on Apple's latest operating system the OS X Lion.

Very busy for the next few weeks, plus one more advanced course on Aperture 3 in September at PMC, all this before I have to get ready for my GD Photo Workshops to Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar.


See below some additional and interesting info on the OS X Lion

There is some good news and bad news, some older Mac's don't support Airdrop so if you installed Lion and can't find the AirDrop Icon then most likely your machine does not support AirDrop. However you can always use DropCopy and that works fine a cool little application, very useful also for your iPhone and iPad (Mobile DropCopy) to transfer files, OK on OS X Lion.


Read below specs by Apple re AirDrop...

OS X Lion: Can I use AirDrop with my computer?
AirDrop is one of the great new features of Lion that provides a really easy way to share files between supported, Wi-Fi enabled Macs, without having to connect through the local Wi-Fi network.
AirDrop will automatically discover all the other Wi-Fi-enabled Macs running AirDrop that are near your computer (this may take a few seconds). To make sure you’re in the Finder, click the desktop (the background area of your screen), or click Finder on the Dock.

Note: If AirDrop isn't listed under the Go menu or doesn't appear in Finder window sidebars, your Mac doesn't support this feature.
Macs that support AirDrop in OS X Lion
If your Mac is the same as, or newer than, the models listed below, then it supports AirDrop.

• MacBook Pro (Late 2008 or newer)*
• MacBook Air (Late 2010 or newer)
• MacBook (Late 2008 or newer)*
• iMac (Early 2009 or newer)
• Mac Mini (Mid 2010 or newer)
• Mac Pro (Early 2009 with AirPort Extreme card, or Mid 2010)

Tags: Philippines, Aperture 3, Power Mac Center, Tips, Tricks, Turtles, TRAINING, Techniques, Tutorials, Apple Mac, OS X Lion, Manila

"My creative process begins when I get out with the camera and
Interact with the world. A camera is truly a license to explore.
There are no uninteresting things.
There are just uninterested people." - Jerry Uelsmann -

Discover the undiscovered… with Gunther Deichmann, Expedition Leader and international multi awarded Photographer. For his full Bio please click this LINK.

These Photo Workshops take you beyond the normal tours, designed for only small groups to give you the maximum attention throughout the Journey.
(Depends on our destinations max. number is between 8 and 12 person.)

Adventure and fun at the same time, stress is not on our agenda, everyday has its little surprises and rewards, from culture experiences, wildlife encounters and fantastic photo opportunities and the whole search is for the unknown, so you can really expect the unexpected.

Learning alongside Gunther, with his vast experiences in Asia and Australia who has traveled these parts of the world for international Magazines for over 30 years.

Gunther’s experience and knowledge brings you closer to your subjects and you learn how to see things in a very different way and light. It is Gunther’s Philosophy about Photography that exposes you to a very different kind of image… a quote by Oscar Wilde says it all; “To look at a thing is very different from seeing it."


GD Photo Workshops are unique in many ways…besides creating beautiful images and experience different cultures there is always an element of fun amongst the participants no matter what nationalities attending. Read some of the testimonials from previous workshop participants. Click here.

More from Behind the scene from our last workshop and the students work click the LINKS.

We take Photography very seriously but at the same time find the precious hours after the shoot to relax and talk about our daily adventures, sharing each other’s experiences and the images we created.
Gunther will also guide you through the process after the shoot, the Digital Darkroom, he has years of experience on a variety of Software including producing Multi Media Presentations.
He is on the Apple Aperture Advisory Board Asia and an Apple Certified Pro Aperture Trainer.

But most of all... "Lets look at the world through our eyes, not through photo-editing tools."

Please Note: Our workshops for Laos-Cambodia 2011 is now fully booked and we have only one more spot for Myanmar but if you're still interested you have to confirm your bookings by the 20th of August.

We have also announced our destinations and Calendar dates for 2012 and working very close now with one of the Top Travel Agencies in Asia (soon there will be a major announcement regarding this exciting new development)

Besides Sri Lanka and Central India in 2012 we travel also to Mongolia - Tibet and a very exciting adventure Journey through Vietnam -Laos and Cambodia by road.

Please note the dates for our Bhutan Trip might change slightly due to some festivals which we don't want to miss, we advise very shortly. There are only 3 more spots available for this amazing Journey into Bhutan. Booking for Bhutan closes by September 15th latest.

Vietnam Delta
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

In 2013 Gunther will lead a very special trip to Australia his home Country which he knows only so well; the outback and the amazing wildlife of Kakadu National Park. A 14 day Journey to some places seldom seen by others. More details will be announced later @
http://www.deichmann-photo.com/gdphotoworkshop/page1/calendar.html

Rare Aboriginal Ceremony Central Australia
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia 2010
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

“Journey means travel. The more you travel, the more you
broaden your horizon and experience different cultures.
And to me that translate into photography." - GD -

Tags: Photo Workshops, ASIA, Bhutan, laos, India, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Journey , Vietnam, Discovery, Aperture3, Tours, Adventure Travel Tours, Expeditions

High tech, angry birds and a lot of other
strange things…

High tech...
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Last week in Bangkok was something out of the ordinary with a lot of different situations and images plus a short GD Photo Workshop for some exclusive clients.

Unfortunately I want be able to talk or show some of the high tech images due to restrictions of the project but at least I can share some of the more strange and bizarre photos with you.

Strange…
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Angry birds…
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Weird…
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Bizarre...
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Very different…
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Great smiles…
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Muaythai...
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It was an amazing week in Bangkok including a visit to the Mecca of Muaythai Boxing at the Lumbini Stadium pushing the ISO to 5000 on the Nikon D700.

I am back in Manila now and working on the final preparations for our GD Photo Workshop to Laos - Cambodia and Myanmar, which starts in September.


BTW…We are fully booked for Laos and Cambodia now and have only one more spot available for Myanmar, so if you like to join us for Myanmar you have to confirm this to us by latest August 12th, 2011 we can’t except any more bookings after this date.

Also our Workshop to Bhutan in 2012 is almost full and we have only three more spots available, if you’re interested please make your bookings asap. (Final booking for Bhutan has to be made by latest November 10th. 2011)

We still have some slots available for Sri Lanka and Central India in 2012 but these two exciting destinations are also filling up very fast.

There will be an update and some very exciting news on our entire Photo Workshops prior my departure in September on this Blog. For more information and details about our Photo Workshops throughout Asia, including the already popular one to Mongolia and Tibet in 2012.

I am also conducting some Aperture 3 and digital darkroom seminars at Power Mac Center and Filipinas Heritage Library in Manila during the month of August and early September, for more details on those please click on the LINKS.
GD

Just one more...

Everything from the above…except high tech & muaythai.
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Tags: Thailand, ASIA, Photography, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, GD Photo Workshop, Weird, Boxing, Muaythai, Lumbini, Bizarre, Bangkok

Burning Midnight Oil…Installed OS X Lion and test driving…
So far I am doing some very good Lap times.

Don't know why this happen to me all the time…a coincident maybe, I mention in my last post on Sri Lanka that my next post would be from Thailand, but then came Lion OS X last night. Now I am test driving…mind you half a sleep so please forgive me for any grammar and spelling mistakes…I need another coffee.

Like before, every time I have to go on a trip, just days before (it happen with Aperture 3 and others) a major update got released, so last night I burned midnight oil and installed Lion OX.

Lucky I had a good internet connection and the downloading only took 3.5 hours plus another 45 minutes for installation and checking the system, I was done by 4:12 AM. I just realized this is the entire flight duration from Manila to Bangkok.
Most of us in the Philippines and in Asia general going to have some difficulty with good connection speed, the only draw back when downloading huge files.

You might ask why going through all this trouble and burning midnight oil, (BTW I love the Band) but I am a Certified Apple Pro Trainer for Aperture and have classroom session and workshops I need to know if there are any issues so I can trouble shoot when needed.

But now to my first observation and some tips for you to move over to Lion, first of all; Make sure you have a back up of your previous system and you updated Snow Leopard prior installation. Making a good back up is absolutely crucial, you never know what can go wrong, Time Machine is a good choice but you can also clone your hard drive via another software if you wish to do so, but make sure you BACK UP!

Lion OS X is only available via download for the Apple App Store and it is about 3.5Gig this is a big Baby for downloading, so a very good connection is important, don't try this with a dial up, which brings me to the next issue, there are some rumors that Apple is going to supply some Memory sticks for some US$ 69.00 with Lion OS X but they want be available until August and this is not sure either.
If you must get Lion now go to a friends place buy some wine and sleep on the couch over night, or ask your Boss if you can do it at work, a good connection and healthy relationship in this case with your Boss is important to.

Compatibility, I am still test driving but so far have not encountered any major issues and the Lion is doing just fine except for some minor issues and getting use to an all new experience.

The scroll bar is gone, well not quiet, it only shows now when you move the mouse or scroll on the trackpad then it will show, the new interface is slick and responsive very quirky, nice one.

Of course there are some 3rd party softwares which do not run and below is a list of some I encountered, not a big deal I can either do without them or a fix will be available soon.
Aperture 3, not a glitch running very cool, Motion 5 is also not a problem, as a matter of fact almost everything I am running from before is fine.

Mail is now very slick just like on your iPhone or iPad, love this new look, but you might have to get use to the new way of scrolling and if you don't like it then you can always set it up to your preference.

Older versions of Stuff it Expander is not running, very old version of Microsoft Office like Word are also not supported, Drop Copy has an issue but no need for that any more since Lion has now Air Drop build in and that works within 30 feet, perfect.
For some 3rd party software you might need to install the serial number again but other than that, all is fine.

A bigger issue is fotoQuote: OSX Lion and Cradoc fotoSoftware programs and an Update pre-announcement

Tags: Tips, OS X Lion, Peach Press, iPad, iPhone 4, Drop copy, Air Drop, fotoQuote, Motion 5, Compatibility, Rapid Weaver, testing, Backing up, Aperture 3, Install, testing, Software, Certified Apple Pro Trainer

The Journey continuos in Sri Lanka...

Dambula Rock Caves, Sri Lanka
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This is the final part from my last journey to Sri Lanka and Central India; well Sri Lanka was actually the first part of my trip, don’t ask me why this became last, I honestly don’t know.

I have selected just a few photos for this short but rewarding Journey and if you like to see more please feel free to check out all the other photos from Sri Lanka on my PhotoShelter Archives and Galleries.

Paintings and statues inside the Dambula Rock Caves, Sri Lanka
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I left from Manila with my friend Hubert Weber via Bangkok and arrived just after midnight in Colombo, a long day indeed.
After an hour drive we got to our Hotel and managed to get a few hours sleep, but it was more like 2 hours since we had to hit the road to the Dambula Cave Temple in the morning…oh my gosh it was morning already.

Tiered but the adrenalin was doing a good job, it was after all my first visit to Sri Lanka, and right from the arrival I had a very good feel about it, the people seem to be very nice, actually super nice as we discovered during our entire trip.

On the way to the Dambula Caves there were lots of photo opportunities along the road, from Rubber plantations, handcrafted Batik, the famous Ceylon Tea,and so many other interesting subjects including a snake charmer with a huge Python and Cobra and of course Dambula which had been on my agenda for many years.

Dambulla is a part of the Cultural Triangle declared by UNESCO is on the main road from Sigiriya to Kandy about 19Km from Sigiriya. There are over 80 caves in the surrounding and some of them have been used by monks as meditation locations.

Buddha statues inside theDambula Rock Caves, Sri Lanka
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The Corridor outside the Dambula Rock Caves, Sri Lanka
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Major attractions are spread over 5 caves, which contain the statues and the paintings. Since it's founding in the 1 century BC by King Valagamba, many improvements and additions have been carried out to the sculptures and paintings over the years. Hindu statues are believed to be of the 12 century AD and the latest paintings are of the late 18-century. The temple is a perfect location to view evolution of the ancient Sri Lankan arts.

We reached Dambula mid afternoon…by now we felt the long hours without sleep, only to be told by our charming Guide that we had to climb (a lot of steps) to the Temple Cave.

I almost collapsed half way up…my energy was fading fast from lack of sleep and long hours on the road, puffing… I had no choice but to hire a friend of our Guide who just happen to be there to help me and carry my backpack …or was this planned?

Uhhh… we made it, just in time for the nice afternoon light which blessed us for the remaining few hours before sunset, and what a sunset it was…all the hard work paid off.

Sri Lanka another place I have to return too, not only for its amazing culture, but also for its Landscapes and rich Wildlife. As a matter of fact we’re having a GD Photo Workshop in 2012 to Sri Lanka and Central India - discovering the undiscovered, for example the not so frequently visited Rock Cave Temple Aluviharaya near Matale.

Aluvihara cave temple Sri Lanka
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Aluvihara cave temple is surrounded by hills, 30 km south of Kandy on the Matale-Dambulla road is having a great historic importance. The history of Aluvihara is traced back to the 3rd Century B.C. in the reign of King Devanampiyatissa.

Aluvihare is one of the most important cultural sites in Sri Lanka.It was believed to be, Buddhist doctrines were first recorded on Ola leaves after passing through orally, here in the 1st century BC, during the reign of King Vattagamini Abaya.This Dhamma record is known as 'Thripitakaya' and to day it is concern as main guiding Dhamma book of Theravada Buddhism.Aluvihare is significant for the huge rocks which leads to classified it as a rock temple.

People of Sri Lanka
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People of Sri Lanka
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People of Sri Lanka
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Of course Kandy was on our itinerary, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka that is now a major tourist destination. (115kM from Colombo at 465 meters above sea level). Famous for the Temple of the Tooth and many other temples, the city could be called the cultural capital of the island.

I short…Sri Lanka is an amazing place with its friendly people, rich culture, amazing landscapes and unique wildlife, truly inviting for many more visits.

Batik handycraft, Sri Lanka
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Meditation at the temple of the Tooth, Kandy Sri Lanka
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Worshiping and meditation at the temple of the Tooth, Kandy Sri Lanka
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Just one more...

Young boy with incense, Sri Lanka
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Oh did I forget to mention all the Elephants? But that is another story…my next post will be from Bangkok, Thailand, so please stay tuned.

GD

Tags: Elephants, Sri Lanka, Art, Buddha, UNESCO, TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY, Journey , Sculptures, Paintings, Hindu statues, Cave Temple, Dambula, Kandy, Buddhism, Rock Temple

"I have seen colors which I thought
didn't exist, but they do." - GD -

Self Portrait in Cupertino US, out side my Hotel at night.
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A short break from my usual travel photography coloring yours and my world today, below is a selection of photos from different places, representing colors around us everyday.

There is one more article coming from my recent trip to Sri Lanka and I post that one in about a week prior my departure for Bangkok, Thailand.

Then in September we start our GD PhotoWorkshops to Laos - Cambodia and Myanmar and I be on the road for some four weeks.
After the workshops a short break before leaving for Palau and of course in between I have some Aperture 3 Seminars and workshops - Digital Darkroom for Photographers- with the Power Mac Center and the Filipinas Heritage Library in Manila Philippines.

Then I am invited again in December for the "ONE ASIA" in Singapore as a Guest Speaker and Judge for the Images of Asia Festival starting on the 9th until the 12th of December 2011.

Now enjoy the colors around us with a final citation by:
- Jack Wilkinson - "Seeing simply is seeing significantly." -

"Color Steel" some time ago in Phnom Penh, Cambodia
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Pedestrian Crossing, Los Banos, Philippines
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Just around the corner...running paint. Manila Philippines
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Outside the Dress shop, Nepal
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View from my Hotel room, Boracay, Philippines
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The Cat and colorful door Nepal
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Color hair pieces, Lhasa, Tibet
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Batik in Indonesia.
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Nano T-shirt in Bangkok Thailand, I did ask the Guy
if I can take a photo of his chest
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Car park colors at Werdenberg Corp., Manila Philippines
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"No strings attached" Phnom Penh Cambodia
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Colorful Table setting...Battambang, Cambodia
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Just one more...

Mall colors, my son Brandon getting a paint job...
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Tags: Colors, Colours, Graphic, ABSTRACT

A Medieval Fort... a Labyrinth with Bats & a replica Taj Mahal,
discover the undiscovered in Incredible India.

Muslim School Children in Aurangabad Town, India
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Daulatabad Fort Aurangabad, India
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Medieval is putting it mildly... after I paid a visit to Aurangabad and discovered the undiscovered, in particular roaming around all day at the Daulatabad Fort with its spooky labyrinth and fortifications.

This was definitely going back in time… Daulatabad Fort is also very different from other Indian Forts I visited before…medieval is the right description for sure.

But there are many other interesting sights, like the perfect replica of the Taj Mahal or the Aurangabad Caves, yet another interesting cave system.
The Aurangabad Caves are small in comparison to Ellora and Ajanta but showcasing yet another achievement from ancient times.
Located close to the city these caves are visited less by tourists, but rather more often by local teenager using them as a lover’s hideout.

Daulatabad Fort and the Victory Pillar is 210 feet high and is a very good specimen of Persian art in India.
The minar was constructed in memory of a victory over Gujrat,Sujrat, by Sultan Al-ud-din Bahamani (Ahamadshah II ) in 1435 A.D. Aurangabad, India
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The city of Aurangabad is known for its medieval monuments and cultural heritage. It was the seat of the Mughal Empire for a short period. The city boasts of Bibi-ka-Makbara, a tomb that has some resemblance to the Taj Mahal.

I found out later that even most Indians don’t know that there is a “second Taj Mahal” in the country, a perfect replica but only about a third in size in comparison to the Taj in Agra. This mausoleum is also termed as 'poor man's Taj Mahal' owing to it being a poor replica of the Taj.

The importance of Aurangabad is great, owing to its proximity with world heritage sites of Ajanta and Ellora. These sites have Buddhist, Jain and Hindu temples.

Aurangabad the Bibi-ka-Maqbara, India replica of the famous Taj mahal Mugal architecture
build in 1678 by Aurangzeb's son in memory of his mother Bgum Rabia Durani, India
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Replica of the famous Taj Mahal, Aurangabad, India
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The heritage of Aurangabad is linked with different Muslim rulers and dynasties of India. The city was founded in 1610, on the site of a village named Khirki, by a local Muslim noble Malik Ambar.

Muslim walking outside the the Bibi-ka-Maqbara,
with shadows of replica of the famous Taj Mahal
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His son Fateh Khan ruled it and named the city as Fatehpur in 1626. Aurangzeb, the last great Mughal ruler, took over this city in 1653 and renamed it as Aurangabad. Due to its strategic location in peninsular India, Aurangzeb made Aurangabad his capital. He used this city as a base to quell the rising power of the Marathas.

Daulatabad Fort and the Victory Pillar is 210 feet high and is a very good specimen of Persian art in India. The minar was constructed in memory of a victory over Gujrat,Sujrat, by Sultan Al-ud-din Bahamani (Ahamadshah II ) in 1435 A.D. Aurangabad, India

Inside the Fort there is an amazing Labyrinth build as a defense for invading forces, here you see bats hanging of the ceiling, a must but spooky walk.
Oh…how I love these sorts of places…and this one was right up my alley!

Bats in side the Labyrinth at Daulatabad Fort Aurangabad, India
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The ceiling is covered in the Labyrinth with thousand of bats
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My local guide made jokes about it before entering the labyrinth, teasing and trying to scare me…well he didn’t know me yet. After I went through the passages I said to him that like to go back and spend more time inside to get additional photos of the Bats…
he looked at me strangely and said… you’re the first person I met who really enjoyed this… I answered him…
my dear friend, I thrive on this!

A local Girl at Daulatabad Fort Aurangabad, India
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Aurangabad is a good base for visiting the Ellora and Ajanta Caves that I described in my earlier articles and one can spend easy a few days here wondering around discovering the undiscovered.

Aurangabad is definitely worth a visit and I shall return again to this part of the world, yet another Incredible part of India.

Aurangabad Caves excavated between 1st and 6th Century AD, India
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Indian Sikh at Daulatabad Fort Aurangabad
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In 2012 our GD Photo Workshop will take place in this area and if you have a sense of adventure, a love for Photography then why not join us to one of the lesser visited places in India.
GD

Just one more...

Monkeys roaming the Daulatabad Fort
in Aurangabad, India
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Tags: Medieval, Maharashtra, Daulatabad Fort , GD Photo Workshop, labyrinth , Fatehpur, Bats

“Discover the undiscovered.” – Kailasa Temple; awesome
architecture and the unrivaled centerpiece of Ellora.

My first impression was nothing less except...WOW!

It took almost a century to build and is considered as the world’s
largest monolithic structure. Kailasa the unrivaled centerpiece of Ellora, India.
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You’re speechless once you stand in front of this awesome architecture know as the Kailasa that is certainly the unrivaled centerpiece of Ellora, and it was only a few days ago when I stumbled up on an article on the web from the
“PopPhoto” Magazine with the Headline “The 25 Best Places to Photograph on Planet Earth”.

Sure enough, under the subtitle ”Ancient Worlds” the very first image was that of the Carpenter Cave in Ellora that I described recently in part 2 of my Blog.

Amazing I thought…I have just been there a couple of month ago. The other place mention under “Ancient Worlds” of course was no other than Angkor Wat in Cambodia a place that I have been visiting since 1992 and do so again this coming September.(GD Photo Workshops Asia: Laos-Cambodia-Myanmar)

View from above the Kailasa Temple Ellora - India.
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Kailasa Temple covering an area about double the size of Parthenon in Athens,
and was covered initially with white plaster trying to portray the similarity to
the snow covered Mount Kailash in Tibet.

So, let me introduce you to this amazing temple (Cave 16), also known as the Kailasa or the Kailasanatha, yet another place I can return to over and over again!

Designed to recall Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva and looks like a freestanding, multi-storied temple complex… but this one was carved out of one single rock!
The Kailash temple like all other caves in Ellora are covered in astonishing frescoes that are masterpieces of Buddhist art.

The construction of this cave was a feat of human genius — it entailed removal of 200,000 tones of rock, and took some 100 years to complete.

Kailasa carved out of a single rock, Ellora - India.
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Its builders modeled it on the lines of the Virupaksha Temple
in Pattadakal. Being a south Indian style temple, it does not have
a shikhara common to north Indian temples.

Just so awesome and impressive...
Kailasa carved out of a single rock, Ellora - India.
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Photography was extreme difficult again due to mixed light sources inside the temples and not been able to use a Tripod or Flash added another difficulty.
A real challenge, however with experience, a lot of patience and a steady hand I managed quiet well. Of course picking the right time of the day is very important too when taken photographs outside, there are plenty subjects to choose from with in the outside temple area.

Like with all the other caves, Ajanta and Ellora all photos been processed with Aperture 3 only, using in most cases only the basic RAW file adjustments, however in some of the cave images additional adjustments were required, mainly adjusting the White Balance using also Aperture 3 this was required due to the extreme mix light conditions in these caves.
No other software or other manipulations has been applied.

Awesome sculptures, detailed frescos or just playing with shadows and light and occasionally adding the ever so colorful Indian women into the frame.

Movement, visitors to the Kailasa temple Ellora - India.
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The spectacular carvings are done in more than one level
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The temple is a splendid achievement of Dravidian art. This project was started by
Krishna I (757–773) of the Rashtrakuta dynasty that ruled from Manyakheta in present
day Karnataka state. His rule had also spread to southern India, hence this temple was
excavated in the prevailing style. Ellora - India.
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Now, if you ever get the feeling or the urge to go back in time discovering the undiscovered, then a visit to this amazing place should be on you next travel Itinerary.

Or join our next GD Photo Workshops Asia 2012 to Central India for an amazing journey into the past, visiting Ellora, Ajanta and other amazing places. At least for a few days you can be “Indiana Jones”, or simply sit back and imagining what it was like hundreds of years ago.

The courtyard is edged by columned galleries three story high with huge
sculpted panels, and alcoves containing enormous sculptures of a variety of
deities that punctuate the galleries.
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These Indian women adding scale and
color to the Kailasa Temple

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Please stay tuned for my next travel adventure blog when I take you to Aurangabad, my base from where I visited Ellora and Ajanta. I keep you a bit in suspense now… but Aurangabad is another awesome place seldom mention, mysterious and very rewarding as I discovered the undiscovered.

But now I have to run... I am long over due for a glass of good red wine at my favorite Cave Werdenberg Wine Bar, yet another Cave but this one is a bit different... until soon,

Cheers GD

Tags: Maharashtra, Caves, Archaeology, Adventure, Ancient Worlds, Dravidian art, Aurangabad, Kailasa Temple

POWERMAC APPLE CERTIFICATION COURSES &
PROMETRIC EXAMINATIONS NOW @

Power Mac Center becomes the first Apple store in the country to receive an Apple Authorized Training Center (AATC) offering IT Track certification.

Furthermore Power Mac Center offers introduction Seminars and special Courses on Aperture 3, Final Cut, Motion,
iLife '11 (iPhoto, iMovie, GarageBand), iWork, Aperture 3 - Photo Workshops, Photoshop CS5, Auto Cad and others.

Power Mac Center’s Classroom at Greenbelt 3 is now an accredited AATC and will begin to offer Apple certified courses to companies, schools, and individuals who wish to learn or expand their knowledge on Apple’s Pro applications.

Moreover, the new AATC is now qualified to offer Apple certification exams for professionals looking to establish their expertise, and better market their skills in the field of digital technology.

With already two accredited Apple Certified Trainers in its Greenbelt store, Power Mac Center continues to consistently train its employees to deliver quality educational services, with the end view of an AATC accreditation for its other flagship stores as well.
This worldwide recognition further raises the level of commitment of all Power Mac Center employees to a truly reliable and outstanding service as demonstrated by the global Apple workforce.

Visit : training.powermaccenter.com for a complete list of courses.

In one of my previous post I gave you an introduction to the Ajanta Caves in India,
a marvel in Indian history and art that is unsurpassed, today I take you to the
Ellora Caves another marvel in human history.

The Buddhist "Carpenter's" cave (Cave 10) Ellora India.
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In between my usual travel articles I had to take short break due to the announcement and a few important details re.the new Final Cut Pro X, Motion 5 and Compressor 4. Then more news about the new Underwater Magazine “The World's Journal of Ocean Photo & Video,” but now lets get back to these truly remarkable caves in India… ”Indian Jones” has returned with Part 2.

Ellora Caves, India
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The Ellora Caves are no different in their amazing architecture, with the exception that they have fewer paintings but feature more impressive and very intricate sculptures, in particularly the rich ornamentation found through out these caves. These Caves regarded as a world heritage site and located in the lap of the Chamadari hills some 30 km from Aurangabad, India,

Huge halls and pillars with intricate Sculptures and artwork at the Ellora Caves, India
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Ellora is another amazing place that begs for a few more visits, actually one can spend a whole day in just one cave, wondering around dreaming of the past… thinking what it was like during the days of their occupation.
Closing your eyes you can almost hear the chant of Buddhist monks echoing through these massive hallways, oh… how I love these places, I wonder if Harrison Ford (Indiana Jones) ever visit these caves… if not, he missed out very badly.

Incredible and intricate Sculptures and artwork at the Ellora Caves, India
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Like with the Ajanta Caves most of the cave temples are not active with ceremonies or other rituals these days, with the “exception” of the five Jain caves at Ellora. Sometimes Jain sect followers visit these caves and worship their masters from the past, as I witnessed during my visit, a rare occasion and a lucky day for me. (see the images below)

The Buddhist "Carpenter's" cave (Cave 10) Ellora India.
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In all 34 caves were excavated here out of which Cave 1 to 12 are Buddhist,
13 to 29 are Brahmanical and 30 to 34 are Jaina.
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These Jain caves belong to the ninth and tenth centuries and all belong to the Digambara sect. Jain caves reveal specific dimensions of Jain philosophy and tradition. They reflect a strict sense of asceticism, they are not relatively large as compared to others, but they present exceptionally detailed art works.

Nuns from the Jain Sect still worshiping in some of the caves,these Jain caves belong
to the ninth and tenth centuries and all belong to the Digambara sect.
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Nuns from the Jain Sect still visiting some of the Jain caves today, these Jain caves belong
to the ninth and tenth centuries and all belong to the Digambara sect.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

The Vishvakarma
The Buddhist "Carpenter's" cave (Cave 10)

Wow… I stopped in amazement when I enter this cave, looking up onto the ceiling send shiver down my spine…thinking how this could had been done with such precision and just the basic tools. Creativity and hard workmanship not to mention the incredible engineering feat, all of this just blew me away.

Visitors to the the Buddhist "Carpenter's" cave (Cave 10) Ellora India.
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The Vishvakarma (Cave 10) is the only chaitya griha amongst the Buddhist group of caves. It is locally known as Vishvakarma or Sutar ka jhopda (carpenter's hut). It follows the pattern of construction of Caves 19 and 26 of Ajanta.

On stylistic grounds, the date of construction of this cave is assigned to c.700. The chaitya once had a high screen wall, which is ruined at present. At the front is a rock-cut court, which is entered through a flight of steps.

On either side are pillared proticos with chambers in their back walls. These were probably intended to have subsidiary shrines but not completed. The pillared verandah of the chaitya has a small shrine at either end or a single cell in the far end of the back wall.

The corridor columns have massive square shafts and ghata-pallava (vase and foliage) capitals. The main hall is apsidal on plan and is divided in to a central nave and side aisles by 28 octagonal columns with plain bracket capitals.

In the apsidal end of the chaitya hall is a stupa on the face of which a colossal 3.30 m high seated Buddha in vyakhyana mudra (teaching posture) is carved. A large Bodhi tree (Ficus religiosa) is carved at the back. The hall has a vaulted roof in which ribs have been carved in the rock imitating the wooden ones.

Photography was extreme difficult again due to strange mixed light sources and not been able to use a Tripod or Flash as I have explained in my previous Blog post from the Ajanta caves. Another real challenge, however with experience a lot of patience and a steady hand, remarkable images can be created.
This location like Ajanta will also be challenging during our GD Photo Workshop in 2012 but an experience and an excellent learning curve in low light condition; working with a minimal amount of equipment. An amazing place, one should visit in a lifetime to "discover the undiscovered."

A good example of an unfinished artwork at the Ellora Caves, India.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

All photos been processed with Aperture 3 only, using in most cases only the basic RAW file adjustments, however in some of the cave images additional adjustments were required, mainly adjusting the White Balance using also Aperture 3 this was required due to the extreme mix light conditions in these caves.
No other software or other manipulations has been applied. I used the Nikon D700 and for all the interiors the Nikkor 12mm to 24mm lens.

Outside view at the Ellora Caves, India.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Soon to follow; the Ellora Caves and part 3, then Aurangabad and Sri Lanka or you can join our GD Photo Workshop in 2012 and experience yourself Incredible India.

In part 3 of this awesome place I introduce you to Cave 16, also known as the Kailasa or the Kailasanatha. It is the unrivaled centerpiece of Ellora, designed to recall Mount Kailash, the abode of Lord Shiva and looks like a freestanding, multi-storied temple complex, but it was carved out of one single rock, and covers an area double the size of Parthenon in Athens. Initially the temple was covered with white plaster thus even more increasing the similarity to snow covered Mount Kailash.

Please stay tuned for part 3 for another example of ancient human architecture from Incredible India. I was speechless when I arrived at this awesome structures for the first time, I had never seen anything like it before that was so amazing and carved out of a single rock with such details and precision as cave 16 Kailasa or Kailasanatha temple.
GD

A challenge at the Ajanta Caves, a UNESCO
world heritage site & unsurpassed in Indian art.



Movement - a person adding scale to one out of 30
massive caves at Ajanta, India.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

In preparation for Laos-Cambodia and Myanmar…oops this should read... Sri Lanka and India, I am going to post a series of articles within the next few weeks from my recent trip to Sri Lanka and Central India, our next destination for the GD Photo Workshops in early 2012.

September is only around the corner for our last trip in 2011 to Laos-Cambodia and Myanmar and in between a short trip to Thailand…Time is flying so fast and I don’t have much of this “commodity” at the moment, only a few more month left to introduce you to some stories behind the photos before reporting direct from our locations in Laos and Cambodia, unfortunately no live reports from Myanmar.

Blog post’s from amazing Sri Lanka, or the totally mind-blowing caves in Central India carved out of solid rock, a marvel in history and human engineering. After seeing this amazing place I came to the conclusion, that if anyone comes to me these days and said, I am sorry I can’t do this…I shake my head, smile and say…my good friend, you have no Idea what can be done!
I guess that is why they call it “Incredible India.”

Lets start with the Ajanta Caves; it was my dream for many years to visit these caves in Central India, the Ajanta and Ellora Caves in my pursuit of ancient Buddhism culture through out Asia.

Ajanta Cave system, India.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Temples are hollowed out of granite cliffs on the inner side of
a 20-meter ravine, Ajanta, India.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

This painting depicting the Birthplace of Buddha,in Lumbini which is now
part of Nepal. Fresco-type paintings that are the chief interest of Ajanta.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

A Photographers paradise and a nightmare at the same time…you’re not allowed to use a Tripod and any kind of strobes (flash) or other lights; a real challenge but with experience a lot of patience and a steady hand, remarkable images can be created.
The reasons for these restrictions are obvious, it is the fresco-type paintings that are in fantastic condition and need to be preserved for generations to come.

Temples are hollowed out of granite cliffs on the inner side of
a 20-meter ravine, Ajanta, India.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

It maybe an obstacle for some visitors/photographers but for me it is a welcome precaution for the preservation of this unique treasure cove and in line with my Philosophy; “sometimes it is better to take home the memory instead pursuing the image.”

This location will certainly be challenging during our GD Photo Workshop in 2012 but also an experience and an excellent learning curve in low light condition; working with a minimal amount of equipment. An amazing place, one should visit in a lifetime to "discover the undiscovered."

All photos have been processed with Aperture 3 only, using in most cases only the basic RAW file adjustments, however in some of the cave images additional adjustments were required, mainly adjusting the White Balance using also Aperture 3 due to the extreme mix light conditions in these caves. No other software or other manipulations has been applied. I used the Nikon D700 and for all the interiors the Nikkor 12mm to 24mm lens.
Please stay tuned or subscribe to my RSS feed for more on this amazing area, soon to follow; the Ellora Caves, Aurangabad and Sri Lanka or join our GD PhotoWorkshop in 2012.
GD

These paintings depict colorful Buddhist legends and divinities with an
exuberance and vitality that is unsurpassed in Indian art.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com




The sculpture, particularly the rich ornamentation of the caitya pillars
is in very fine details and well preserved.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Amazing sculptures through out the caves.
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Ajanta, a UNESCO world heritage site, is famous for its Buddhist rock-cut cave temples and monasteries with their extraordinary wall paintings. The temples are hollowed out of granite cliffs on the inner side of a 20-meter ravine in the Wagurna River valley, 105 km northeast of Aurangabad, at a site of great scenic beauty.

About 30 caves were excavated between the 1st century BCE and the 7th century CE and are of two types, caityas ("sanctuaries") and viharas ("monasteries"). Although the sculpture, particularly the rich ornamentation of the caitya pillars, is noteworthy, it is the fresco-type paintings that are the chief interest of Ajanta.

These paintings depict colorful Buddhist legends and divinities with an exuberance and vitality that is unsurpassed in Indian art. - Adapted from Encyclopedia Britannica-

Just one more..

.

Ajanta Caves, India.
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Tags: Ajanta, Caves, Aurangabad, UNESCO, temples, Buddhism, Wagurna River , Ellora, Sri Lanka, Lumbini, Monasteries, Buddha, Central India, Heritage

Our next Journey through Color & Time the
GD Adventure Photo Workshop starts in September 2011.



"Unforgettable places and faces...discover the undiscovered."

For more information on all our Photo Workshops in 2011/2012 please click this LINK or the photo above.
For Laos-Cambodia-Myanmar we have only two (2) more spots available, if you like to join these you have to finalize your bookings by latest June 10, 2011. We can't except any more bookings after this date.

Our exciting Photo Workshop to Bhutan is also filling up fast, we have only four (4) more spots available, this one you have to book early, by latest on or before October 15, 2011, we're taken reservation now, first come first serve basis.
This workshop is for a max. of 8 participants only!
Feedback and testimonials from previous workshop participants please click this LINK.

I am looking forward now to our Adventure Travel Photo Workshop into Laos-Cambodia and Myanmar, I have worked out a super exciting Itinerary, but I am also happy in catching up with some good old friends especially from our base in Siem Reap the Heritage Suites Hotel. Our "Famous Round Table" will be of some very good use again.

In early July I have a three day workshop with the Filipinas Heritage Library in Manila and later that month a week long trip to Thailand for some interesting photography.
GD

The story behind the photos…
One early morning at the Varanasi Railway station, India.



Is he checking me out? Inside the Ticketing area,Varanasi Railway Station, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Railway stations are always fascinating especially in India where massive crowds gather, for millions a very affordable transportation system in India.
Varanasi one of India's most holiest City, is no exception on the contrary it is a colorful beehive like atmosphere, where everyday people come and go including pilgrims from all over the country visiting this Holy place called Varanasi.

On the Platform at Varanasi Railway Station, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Varanasi Junction, popularly known as Varanasi Cant Railway Station is the major rail hub in the Indian State of Uttar Pradesh. It is one of the busiest stations in India and more than 230 trains passing through here on a daily basis.
Extreme contrast not only for photography, the light varies from very dark inside the building to India’s scorching sun outside on the platform.

Passengers inside the waiting room, Varanasi Train Station, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com




Passengers inside the waiting room, Varanasi Train Station, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

But the contrast amongst people from all walks of life is what makes this Railway station so very special not to mention the Holy Cows trying to “catch a ride... maybe.”
These Cows or even Bulls wondering in and out of the station undisturbed and if by any chance one of them should stand in front of the train, well… there is for sure a delay in the departures… Holy Cow indeed.

Holy Cow...but in this case it is a big Bull wondering around
at the Varanasi Train Station, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Amazing, crazy and utterly weird but ever so interesting is the scene which plays in front of you everyday, passengers stepping over spaced out people who had to many drinks the night before or took on just a bit to much during the Holi Festival, this is what that sums up the Varanasi Railway station.
But somehow the system works and is fairly efficient, as I had experienced some years ago in Mumbai where you find not one but numerous railway stations, super crowded but it works.

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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

A blur of people and color passes by this man who obviously past out from to much
to drink during the Holi Festival the night before.Varanasi Train Station, India
(The Holi Festival is not only celebrated on one day, it all depends in which State of
India you are and Holi making can go on for a whole week.)



A family inside the waiting room, Varanasi Train Station, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Interesting people and faces at Varanasi Train Station, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

More images from the Railway Station and other locations in Varanasi @ PhotoShelter
GD

From Marijuana smoking Sadus to amazing colors, Buddhist Monks,
plus the strange and bizarre...all this from Nepal now on PhotoShelter.

Afternoon sunlight and a Sadu in his element...Kathmandu, Nepal
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

After a very busy week I managed to update and upload the latest images from my recent trip and workshop in Nepal.

Last week I was really tied up with lectures on the Digital Darkroom (mind you NO Photoshop) that was organized by the Filipinas Heritage Library and the Power Mac Center in Greenbelt 3, Makati.

Three 3 hour sessions with 15 students and all about Aperture 3 the Digital Darkroom, the workflow after the shoot and backing up your important photos on external hard drives.

But today I found time and caught up with my editing on Nepal and uploaded them on my PhotoShelter Archives and Gallery.

A Sadu's mirror...Kathmandu, Nepal
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Totally bizarre.....Kathmandu, Nepal
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Again all photos have been processed only with Aperture 3, NO image manipulation Photoshop or any other software has been used.

Nepal was the last edit from my recent Journey to Sri Lanka, Central India then to Delhi, & Varanasi, India and Nepal. Thousands of images later, now edited, the few selected ones residing now in my PhotoShelter Archives and Galleries.

Weird, strange but yet so real in Nepal...
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Movement during the Manandhab Ceremony celebrated after the Holi Festival
at the Monkey Temple, Kathmandu Nepal
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

The colors of Nepal...
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Culture and Tradition, Kathmandu, Nepal
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Over the weekend I am finalizing my Itinerary’s for our up coming GD Photo Workshops to Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar…and believe me…they will be awesome.
BTW…We have only 2 more spots available for Laos and Myanmar and only one more slot for Cambodia, if you’re interested please get in touch with me ASAP all bookings will be closed very shortly. For more info and contacts click this LINK.
Now enjoy Nepal…

GD

A lot more @ PhotoShelter...



Weird, strange & bizarre but yet so beautiful...Kathmandu, Nepal
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

The latest images from Delhi & Varanasi are now residing in my
PhotoShelter Archive and Gallery...
The stories behind some of the images.

The latest images from Delhi and Varanasi, India March 2011 are now uploaded in my PhotoShelter Archives and Galleries to view them click on the Images or this LINK. Below are samples from my last Journey and stories behind some of the images. I am still editing Nepal, but soon also uploaded on my PhotoShelter Archives and Galleries.

In the streets of Varanasi India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com
Nikon D300swith the new Nikkor 24.0mm to 120.0mm f:4 lens. ISO 400

One night traveling on a Rickshaw from the Ganges River in Varanasi back to our Hotel, I decided like so many times before to continue taken photos. Using a slow shutter speed and working my Nikon in manual mode and occasional using my popup flash on a rear curtain mode shooting many frames in the crowded streets of Varanasi. It was after all, the day after the Holi festival and people still roaming the streets intoxicated and having fun celebrating one of India's most important festivals.
I spotted these two boys from the distance and before my Rickshaw pulled level with them I had my camera adjusted shooting in burst mode hoping for at least one image. The above image is the outcome...almost like a painting, NO other treatment in Photoshop or any other software, using Aperture 3 and adjusting only the exposure by about one stop.

A boy playing in one of the areas of the Jama Masjid Mosque in Old Delhi, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com
Nikon D700 with the new Nikkor 24.0mm to 120.0mm f:4 lens. ISO 200

I was watching this little boy for a while playing at a fence inside the Mosque grounds while his mother taken part in a prayer. After a few other images he all of a sudden pushed his body and his face right on to the wire.

The Railway station in Varanasi, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com
Nikon D300s & the new Nikkor 24.0mm to 120.0mm f:4 lens. ISO 200

Visiting the Varanasi Railway station is another experience, super crowded with local vendors and pilgrims coming and going. For this shot I picked a high vantage point using an Aperture of f:20 to get a slow shutter speed to achieve the motion blur, now I just had to wait patiently for an incoming train. Again, NO other treatment in Photoshop or any other software, using only Aperture 3.

Jama Masjid Mosque in Old Delhi, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com
Nikon D700 with the new Nikkor 24.0mm to 120.0mm f:4 lens. ISO 200

The full moon rises of the Ganges River in Varanasi ,India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com
Nikon D700 with the Nikkor 50mm f:1.4 lens. ISO 800

Aarti ceremony on the banks of the Ganges River,Varanasi, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com
Nikon D300s with the new Nikkor 24.0mm to 120.0mm f:4 lens. ISO 400

The Railway station in Varanasi, India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com
Nikon D300s & the new Nikkor 24.0mm to 120.0mm f:4 lens. ISO 400

GD

Excerpts below from Wikipedia on Delhi (Jama Masjid Mosque) and Varanasi, India.
According to legend, the city was founded by the Hindu deity, Lord Shiva, around 5,000 years ago, thus making it one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in the country. It is one of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus. Many Hindu scriptures, including the Rigveda, Skanda Purana, the Ramayana, and the Mahabharata, mention the city.
Varanasi is generally believed to be about 3,000 years old.Varanasi was a commercial and industrial centre famous for its muslin and silk fabrics, perfumes, ivory works, and sculpture. During the time of Gautama Buddha (born circa 567 BCE), Varanasi was the capital of the Kingdom of Kashi. The celebrated Chinese traveller, Xuanzang, attested that the city was a centre of religious, educational, and artistic activities, and that it extended for about 5 km along the western bank of the Ganges.
It was at this very place where an unusual incident was observed, an indian crocodile seized a sleeping indian tiger on the bank of the river and dragged it into the water.
More @ Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varanasi
The Masjid-i Jahān-Numā (Persian: commonly known as the Jama Masjid (Hindi: is the principal mosque of Old Delhi in India. Commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, builder of the Taj Mahal, and completed in the year 1656 AD, it is the largest and best-known mosque in India. It lies at the origin of a very busy central street of Old Delhi, the Chawri Bazar Road.
The mosque also houses several relics in a closet in the north gate, including an antique copy of the Qur'an written on deer skin.
More @ Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jama_Masjid,_Delhi

The story behind the photos...
One beautiful morning on the Ganges River in Varanasi - India,
an interesting mix of Man’s construction and Nature.

Ganges reflections, Varanasi India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Man and Nature: Man and his constructions … sometimes ugly and sometimes nice…however Nature can make them all look very beautiful, in this case it was Water the source of all life, that created these amazing reflections on the Ganges River in India.

Ganges reflections, Varanasi India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

It was indeed a beautiful morning with blue skies and calm waters, with the exception of a slight ripple now and then creating amazing colors in front of me, little evidence of the normally polluted Ganges River.
The colors of India reflecting right before my eyes… maybe it was this beautiful play of light and color that people have seen for hundreds of years, drawn them to it and worshiping -– The river Ganga Ma, "Mother Ganges."

As for me… it left an everlasting impression, not only on this day but also from previous visits to India.
I just hope that man can and will control the pollution which has taken its toll on the environment, so that we can cherish this mighty river and it's amazing reflections for many more years to come.

Ganges reflections, Varanasi India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

PLEASE NOTE: These reflections are the product of nature and man made objects and NO manipulation, Photoshop or any other software of any kind has been used. All images have been processed using only Aperture 3 Raw conversion and some very basic adjustments.

Soon on PhotoShelter - the complete collection from my recent trip to Delhi-Varanasi in India and Nepal.
Images from Central India are available on my PhotoShelter Archives and Gallery already.@ http://gdeichmann.photoshelter.com/

Let me use for todays post and images a quote from my good friend Pete Turner - "Ultimately, simplicity is the goal - in every art, and achieving simplicity is one of the hardest things to do. Yet it's easily the most essential". - Pete Turner,

GD

Ganges reflections, Varanasi India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

Ganges reflections, Varanasi India
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© Gunther Deichmann - www.deichmann-photo.com

"The Ganga, especially, is the river of India, beloved of her people, round which are intertwined her memories, her hopes and fears, her songs of triumph, her victories and her defeats. She has been a symbol of India's age-long culture and civilization, ever changing, ever flowing, and yet ever the same Ganga." - Jawaharlal Nehru, First Prime Minister of India, born in Allahabad on the Ganges.
More detailed info on the Ganges The Water Page@ http://www.africanwater.org/ganges.htm


See below some excerpts and useful LINKS on the Ganges River from various sources:

This river that runs for 1,560 miles from the Himalayas all the way to the Bay of Bengal is more than just flowing water. This river is life, purity, and a goddess to the people of India. The river is Ganga Ma, "Mother Ganges." Her name and her story is known all throughout the land. It is the story of how she poured herself down from heaven upon the ashes of King Sarga's sons. Her waters would raise them up again to dwell in peace in heaven. Not only that, but anyone who touches these purifying waters even today are said to be cleansed of all sins…more @
The Ganges by JulieDunn
http://www.csuchico.edu/~cheinz/syllabi/asst001/spring98/ganges.htm

Also check Wikipedia @ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganges

After days of editing and spending hours on end deciding which
images to use for updating my Main Web Gallery we are done!

We finished last night (or was it early morning, thanks also to Arj) and updated the Main Web Site, added new buttons on the Top Bar with new categories (countries). As you know my main site features only a selected few images (14 only) all others are found in my PhotoShelter Archives and Galleries. (Sri Lanka is complete already in PhotoShelter)

To view the updated pages and new addition you can click on the screenshots below or use these LINKS:

Nepal (some new images) - India 2 - India 3 (Central India) & Sri Lanka.
(two additional Buttons have been added also namely Bhutan and S.E. Asia 4 but these will be updated at a later date)

PLEASE NOTE: You might have to refresh your Browser or even individual pages and maybe have to empty your cache since this was a major update on the site, with new Buttons and photos however this issue will take care of its self in due time.

Changed some photos in Nepal

All photos have been processed using only Aperture 3 for the website and the high-resolution images in my archives for PhotoShelter. No Photoshop or any other software has been used and /or the images have been manipulated in any way.

New India 2

However some color temperature corrections have been performed on some of the new photos from Central India (Cave images only) India 3 Gallery, due to the complexity and extremely difficult light conditions of mixed light which varied from Day light to tungsten to fluorescent plus what ever else there was… a total mix of all sorts of lights mixed together real bad.
Aperture 3 I might add did an excellent job dealing with these corrections and I never felt the need to use any other software.

New India 3 Gallery