The Road less traveled...


© Gunther Deichmann - On Mekong River Cambodia 1992
shot with Kodachrome 25 ASA

I just finished the Itinerary for the Journey after our Photo Workshop in Siem Reap Cambodia, and for those who would like to join, please contact me for more details as this trip is only for a very limited number of participants.

Traveling by road and stops I have selected including a couple days in Batambang with it's amazing Colonial architecture, along the majestic Tonle Sap Lake traveling south to Phnom Penh.

© Gunther Deichmann - Cambodia 2009
Rickshaw in Phnom Penh

© Gunther Deichmann - Cambodia 2009
By Ox Cart if weather permitting to the remote temple of
Bantey Ampoeu (part of our Siem Reap Workshop)


© Gunther Deichmann - Cambodia 2009
The remote temple of Bantey Ampoeu (part of our Siem Reap Workshop)

Cambodia & other Photo Workshops please click this LINK

GD

Cambodia & beyond...last call for reservations

We are getting very close to our final bookings for our GD PhotoWorkshop in Cambodia from the 12 to 18th of September 2010, we have only 3 more spaces available and our bookings will close by July 25th.
For more info please go to:
http://www.deichmann-photo.com/gdphotoworkshop/page1/calendar.html

A complete Course outline is available up on request, please email me and I send you the PDF file, thank you.
http://www.deichmann-photo.com/contact/contact.php
GD

Explore & Capture Mystical Cambodia

QT 1:46 min.

Mystical Cambodia is a Journey into the past...created for my GD Photo Workshops and my love for Cambodia.
Produced with Aperture 3, Motion from Final Cut Studio and GarageBand. The short Video clip at the end was taken with a Nikon D300s long after sunset with very little light left. I created the soundtrack for this project entirely in GarageBand which took about 20 min.
You might noticed that I am using Aperture 3 slideshows with Motion lately, it is just an awesome combination for Multimedia presentations, tutorials or just for fun.

For info on my GD Photo Workshops please click this LINK

Also on: Vimeo & YouTube

GD

The GD Photo Workshops in Asia...
confirmed dates for Sept. & Oct.
Cambodia, Nepal & Philippines.



© Gunther Deichmann - discover the
undiscovered in Cambodia

You find we go beyond the normal tourist locations, experience adventure with a touch of luxury in some of the best destinations in Asia. Discover the undiscovered with your digital camera.
Gunther has many years of experience in Cambodia and Nepal, you explore places seldom visit by others.

Understand light and composition, meet new people and immerse yourself in new cultures, getting the shot right in the first place is the main objective in these workshops. Learn how to see with your eyes and using the camera only as a tool to capture the ultimate image. Photoshop manipulation is not on the agenda.

At the same time master the after the shoot workflow, critique, tips, tricks and techniques, plus securing your Photos with the implementation of a complete back up system during our classroom sessions at the Hotel.

The workshops are for advanced amateurs who want to gain insight into how to make better photographs for editorial, stock sales or for personal satisfaction. A digital SLR camera capable of capturing RAW images is required. Students are encouraged to bring their own laptop.

Students will work in digital formats and for those with experience on Mac Computers Gunther will guide you through the understanding of Aperture. (including the latest version 3.0.3) He will also teach basic editing skills in Photoshop. Gunther is a certified Apple Pro Trainer for Aperture and has years of hands on knowledge using Photoshop as a photography tool.

For more info go to:

GD Photo Workshops

Cambodia, Siem Reap and Phnom Penh
PHOTO WORKSHOP in September 12 - 18, 2010
Final bookings must be made by latest 19th of July


PACKAGE PRICE: US $1,795.00 (airfare not included) for more details please email us at gdeichmann@mac.com

The price is inclusive of the following:

• 7 days and 6 nights stay inclusive of accommodation bed and breakfast at a 5star Boutique Hotel (Siem Reap)

• Ground transportation and guides including visit to the Tonle Sap lake

• Bottled water will be provided throughout the excursions.

• Heritage site permit fees.

• (only 4 more slots available)

Full details and outline of course will be send to you upon request.
Please Note: If you like to take part of the Phnom Penh extension additional fees are applicable, this is in addition to our Siem Reap 7 day Workshop and a great opportunity for those who like to add some extra days and explore/discover Phnom Penh and surrounding areas. Pls. send us an email for more information for the Phnom Penh extension.

7 days Angkor Wat and beyond...explore and discover the hidden Khmer treasures, please book this workshop early it is our most popular one.
Read what students had to say from our previous Photo Workshops in Cambodia & India.

© Gunther Deichmann - ancient Temples
& ritual Cambodia


© Gunther Deichmann - Siem Reap Cambodia

October 14 - 21, 2010 Bookings close by 9th of August.
Only 4 spaces remaining! 
Nepal, Kathmandu
A 7 day Journey into Nepal, final itinerary yet to be finalized, please stay tuned for more info very soon. Shortly we announce the price and upon request we provide you with a detailed Itinerary and Course outline.

© Gunther Deichmann - Sadhu Nepal

© Gunther Deichmann - Kopan Monastery in Kathmandu, Nepal

Oct. 29 -Nov01, 2010 Bookings close by 31st of August.
PHOTOGRAPHY LESSONS IN PALAWAN: Learn from the Pro. in cooperation with Power Mac Center Manila Philippines.
Four days of fun and learning travel photography..exploring nature's beauty in Palawan
Target: Amateurs and semi-pro (max 8 participants) please book this one early. Peso 12,000 (does not include Hotel and accommodation charges yet)
Philippines only! Course outline soon to be announced.
For registration: workshops@powermaccenter.com

© Gunther Deichmann -perfect camouflaged Monitor Lizard
cooling of in the lagoon on Dimakya Island Palawan, Philippines



© Gunther Deichmann - Flying Fox, - Fruit Bats
on Dimakya Island Palawan, Philippines

Hope to see you on one of our GD Photo Workshops,
GD

“My Photo Gallery” the Prototype...

© Gunther Deichmann - “My Cambodian Gallery” 1.36 min QT Prototype only.
Broadband recommended 13.2MB

During my last trip in Cambodia I used the new Nikon D300s a lot (I might add for the first time) but had very little time to test the Video function on the D300s (a lot more when I get back from Nepal/India in March)
All image editing was done with Aperture 2.1.4 and the video was very quickly edited using the new Quick Time on Snow Leopard which is fast and so easy to use.

I managed to get a bit of Video footage, nothing special but easily applied in a presentation like this. Of course the music was created in GarageBand before and I pulled this track from my archives.
In due time and when I get back from India I put up a nice mix with stills and Video. Having the ability now to create presentations where we can use stills and video combined is just so nice and cool.
I hope you like this small and first demo...the adventure only started.
Also on YouTube as: "My Gallery" the Prototype http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GVi8IgL1tGI&feature=channel
GD

“Small Taste of the Latest” updated with a
selection of Photos from my last trip to
Cambodia in December 2009.


© Gunther Deichmann - Angkor Wat Cambodia Dec. 2009
View more images in the Gallery click on the Photo or go to
“Small Taste of the Latest”on the menu bar.

In September 2009 we had our very cool and humoring GD Photo Workshop in Siem Reap and then in December I had to return to finish a few projects on my own, namely the very soon to be launched Heritage Suites Hotel and Heritage Adventures websites. They be up very, very shortly and I keep you posted. Only a few more days and I announce the NEW LINKS to you.

During my last trip in December 2009 I did spend more time at the Hotel then shooting but I guess that’s life and work, however I had to show my good friend and webmaster Arnold around a bit since it was his very first trip to Cambodia, plus I had to finish a couple other things deep in the Jungle. I know my suspense again but unfortunately I can’t share these images with you yet, all pending on a publication later this year. I know, shrouded in secrecy again, sorry about that.

But I made a small selection from the last trip today which I can share with you, just a mixed bag from Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.
What I like about Cambodia so much, no matter how often I go back, say for example Angkor Wat I always find and discover new things or the light is just in my favor like on the day I took Arnold for the first time to Angkor in the afternoon.

© Gunther Deichmann - Ta Phrom, Cambodia Dec. 2009
Click on the Photo for more.

While he was dazzled and overcome by this architectural master piece trying to catch his breath, I just wondered around and played with the light.
The next morning at 5:30 we left for Ta Phrom with a perfect sunrise and a slight cool breeze, a welcome change from the normal humid condition earlier in the year. Besides my Jungle trip (more on that later) that was all the time we had exploring Siem Reap this time around.

© Gunther Deichmann - Phnom Penh, Cambodia Dec. 2009
Click on the Photo for more.

Due to unavailability of flights from Siem Reap (sort off lucky for us) we chose to drive from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh, a town I know only to well, again we only had two days but since I know my way around it was easy to get to the right places at the right time.
Located along the Mekong River, Phnom Penh has a lot to offer for visitors and Photographers alike, charming French restaurants and Bars lined up along the “Boulevard” overlooking the Mekong, and behind you the majestic Grand Palace with its famous Silver Pagoda.

© Gunther Deichmann - Phnom Penh, Cambodia Dec. 2009
Click on the Photo for more.

Thanks to Aperture 2, editing was fast and smooth, plus I have finished all my tagging, key wording etc., uploaded all the latest images into Archives from my Agencies and in a few days everything will also be on my PhotoShelter Archives and Galleries.
I hope you’re going to enjoy this small selection of Images from our last Journey, Cambodia is certainly one of my favorite destinations in Asia, more very soon on PhotoShelter.
GD

The mood & colors from the last
few days in Cambodia...

The year is coming fast to an end and I am looking forward to some very exciting Journeys in 2010. Myanmar – India - Nepal & Cambodia are confirmed trips…plus what ever else crops up in between, with me you never know.

© Gunther Deichmann - the mood of Angkor Wat
the day before we left for Phnom Penh Cambodia

Before I am going into the family Christmas mood I like to share with you some more interesting escapades from the recent Cambodian Journey including a bit on Aperture 2.
I have also included a disturbing Photo…a stark reminder of the dark past in Cambodia with its Land Mines; its scars are still visible today and for many years to come.

© Gunther Deichmann - the Gate of Bayon
Temple, Siem Reap Cambodia

Please spare a moment for those unlucky ones among us, be it in Cambodia or elsewhere in the world. Lets not forget them, may our thoughts be with them not only during Christmas but all year around. Thank You!

© Gunther Deichmann - a stark reminder...
the scars of War! Phnom Penh, Cambodia

As you know I have just returned from Cambodia a few days ago in time to spend Christmas with my family. Arnold my Web Guru and myself left Siem Reap on the 18th of December by Car for Phnom Penh where we spend a few days roaming around.

Sadly we had to leave the good company of the Heritage Suites Hotel behind, already missing Didier, Vorana and Jam plus the super friendly staff, but I will return soon. Siem Reap has become almost my second home now, plus there is still so much to more explore and to discover.

© Gunther Deichmann - last light on the way to
Phnom Penh Cambodia

© Gunther Deichmann - the fisherman on the way to
Phnom Penh Cambodia

A lot of changes have taken place in Phnom Penh since my first visit in 1992 and again in 2005, I have been spending more time these past few years in the Siem Reap area.

© Gunther Deichmann - Sunday afternoon at the Mekong River
in Phnom Penh Cambodia

Phnom Penh brought back memories from the past especially when we had dinner at the FCC (Foreign Correspondence Club) my hangout from the earlier days.
A must on any ones list if you visit Phnom Penh, great food, cold Beer and a cool atmosphere, this time around they had a great Gallery of Photos from my famous Rock stars on the walls; Garry Moore, Chrissie Hynde's from the Pretenders, Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, Pat Garrett from Midnight Oil, Rolling Stones and just about everybody else from the good old days… plus a cool Blues/Jazz Band was playing on our first evening in Phnom Penh.

But you also find walls covered with Photos from the Vietnam War and the horrific reign of the Pol Pot Regime, some disturbing images but it is the reality from the past or even now in the streets of Phnom Penh where you see people with out their limbs.

Been connected is important these days, good Internet connections are all over Phnom Penh like in Side walk Café’s and Restaurants. Getting around is also not a problem you find Tuk Tuk’s and Motorbikes on every street corner.
If you don’t have any accommodation booked, then you should check out a very cool guesthouse called the “Eye of the Mekong House” at 30 street 110 - run by a very charming Frenchman called Nikolas. Great place with spacious rooms, good Coffee, very affordable and right in town just a stone throw away from the Mekong River.

The new Nikon D300s proved to be fantastic in every aspect during my last trip but I need more time for the Video…lot more details on that one later.

© Gunther Deichmann - A Christmas Tree???
Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Let me finish today with the word “patience” there has been some whining and complaining re. Aperture 2 updates been to slow and some Photographers are thinking switching to Lightroom…
New Camera models have been popping up non-stop in 2009; now we blame Apple and other for not keeping up… sad! What ever happen to patience? From my past experience when Apple has done something they did it real well and not using some Beta version like Adobe with Lightroom. Would you buy or work with a Beta Version of a Camera? As a serious Photographer I don’t like to test things, I like them to work…don’t forget who came out first with the almost perfect Digital Photography workflow…Aperture was way ahead and made things possible which had been very difficult before and could only achieved with Photoshop.

© Gunther Deichmann - Color Steel...Phnom Penh, Cambodia

Patience…all real GOOD things take Time and I am sure Apple will come up with something soon enough…they have always done so in the past, maybe a bit slower but for sure it will be awesome and no need for Beta testing.
Now I have to get this Blog out... move my Magic Mouse and get back to my red wine and Midnight Oil plus the Kids are waiting. Cheers!

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a GREAT 2010!
GD

The spirit of light in Cambodia…

Yes, all good things come to an end sometimes…but not for long, I shall return very soon to this ancient land with its Temples hidden deep in the Jungle.

© Gunther Deichmann - APSARA & light Angkor Wat Cambodia Dec. 2009

I wish all my readers, family members and friends a fantastic Christmas season and might the New Year bring what you have been wishing for. As for me, I am leaving tomorrow Siem Reap for Phnom Penh and after a few days back to Manila just in time to spend Christmas with my family.

© Gunther Deichmann - corridors & natural light
Cambodia Angkor Wat Dec. 2009

This trip has been very strenuous but ever so rewarding, met new friends…
a musician composer from Las Vegas (we had a great chat about my music and Garage Band), a Doctor, an Eye specialist and his wife from London and some others. PS. according to him my Eye sight is still Ok... hmmm and since his wife is also a Medical Doctor my Blood Pressure is fine too...must be the good wine at the Heritage Suite Hotel.

© Gunther Deichmann - Buddha Bless Cambodia Dec. 2009

Our stay at the Heritage Suite Hotel (Arnold my Web Guru and myself) was as great than ever, with the superb company of the Management and staff, in particular the GM Varona and Jam from Marketing, not to mention the ever so entertaining Didier from the Heritage Adventures. Thanks to you all...
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year...your hospitality has been outstanding!
I announce some very interesting news soon regards to the Heritage Adventures and the Heritage Suites Hotel once we’re back in Manila.

© Gunther Deichmann - early morning at
Ta Phrom Cambodia Dec. 2009

My gratitude to Nikon Singapore once again for providing me with an excellent replacement Nikon D300s Camera for my damaged D2X.
I have not finished testing it completely…but I am more than happy so far with it, considering it received some real punishment during this trip.

© Gunther Deichmann - early morning at
Ta Phrom Cambodia Dec. 2009

Can you imaging how happy I was when Apple announced a few Days ago the RAW file update for Aperture 2, which of course included the Nikon D300s just in time for my test drive in Cambodia. All photos on this Blog have been edited using Aperture 2 and almost no corrections have been applied.

© Gunther Deichmann - novice Monk at Angkor Wat Cambodia Dec. 2009

Sorry I have to keep this Blog post brief today, need to pack my things yet and I rather let the images speak…a lot more photos will follow but due to some pending publications I can’t share them at this time.
I am wishing every body a great Holiday Season…take good care and be good.
From Siem Reap in Cambodia…Buddha Bless!
GD

Straight out of the Box & into the
Jungle of Cambodia...

© Gunther Deichmann - Cambodia Dec. 2009,
Nikon D300s and the 50mm f:1.4 G Lens

Well not quiet out of the Box but almost… I picked up the Nikon D300s and the new 50mm 1.4 G Lens in Singapore. The D300s is the replacement unit for my water damaged D2x…remember the Rice Paddy incident in September…thanks to Nikon Singapore for providing me an excellent deal and rescuing my totally water drenched 180 2.8 mm lens. They did a great job, my special thanks to Jonathan from the Service Center at Nikon Singapore.
I only had little time to go through the Manual but since I am a Nikon user from way back it was fairly easy to work my way through the D300s.

© Gunther Deichmann - Red Bananas, Cambodia Dec. 2009,
Nikon D300s and the 50mm f:1.4 G Lens

The first time I used the Camera was at Phnom Kulen shooting some rare red Bananas, yes you have heard right, RED Bananas, supposedly only found in the Jungles of Phnom Kulen.
It was here that I used also the new 50mm f:1.4 G lens for the first time, I am truly impressed with excellent image quality even at f:1.4 wide open with superb color rendition.

© Gunther Deichmann - Butterflies at Phnom Kulen Waterfall,
Cambodia Dec. 2009,
Nikon D300s and the 50mm f:1.4 G Lens

An hour or so later I set the D300s up for some Video footage at the Phnom Kulen
Waterfall, easy operation but before I post the results I have to do some editing first of the clips, sorry not enough time at the moment.
After the red Bananas I shot some Butterflies at the Phnom Kulen Waterfall and then we went deeper into Jungle to a very special Cave only using the D300s with a mix of Lenses... fighting darkness, water dripping from the ceiling and Bat shit.
A lot more from this very special place later, yes I know my suspense again…but all good things take time!
I have another super early start tomorrow, so I finish now with my first verdict that the D300s is an outstanding Camera and with the 50mm f: 1.4 G Lens just awesome. All images have ben processed using Aperture 2 with almost no adjustments.
Thanks to Didier from Heritage Adventures for providing all the transportation and logistics.

Just one more from this afternoon at Angkor Wat...

© Gunther Deichmann - an afternoon at Angkor Wat
Nikon D300s with 50mm f:1.4 G Lens

But now its time to go to bed, G, night... until very soon.
GD

Crazy me got up this morning at 4AM don’t ask me why since I had no Photography planned for the day but that is going to change very soon.

© Gunther Deichmann

I keep today’s Blog brief, as a matter of fact it is just to say hi from the Heritage Suite Hotel in Siem Reap my quarters for the next ten days.
A lot of exciting things are planned; test driving the Nikon D300s and exploring some remote places in the Jungle. Finishing what I missed on my last trip plus there is some additional work to be done for the Heritage Adventures and Heritage Suite Hotel.
Busy and exciting days ahead, plus my Webmaster is flying in today to help on a project but more on that later.

Oh before I forget, the Wi-Fi connections is just out of this world at the Heritage, excellent reception in all rooms now or you can relax at the poolside for some early morning surfing and listening to the native birds tweeting.
OK., that’s it for this morning, a lot more in the coming days, you just have to stay tuned or subscribe to my RSS feed.
GD

Getting ready again... packing Bags for Cambodia, another Journey to one of my favorite destinations.
Thanks again to Arjun Shroff from Shroff International Travel who has taken care of all my last minute travel arrangements, he really performed some magic to get me onto some of the flights.
Last September we finished our GD Photo Workshop in Siem Reap and now another trip for something different…but for sure with some more images.

© Gunther Deichmann - magic Cambodia!

Once in Siem Reap I fill you in with more details…oh no, not my suspense again.

At the same time I am test-driving the recently released Nikon D300s not only for the images but also for its Video capabilities, which should be very interesting.

However I do give the Ox Cart a miss this time, don’t like to loose another Camera, you might remember from one of my previous Blog post when I lost my Nikon D2x in the rice paddy.
The last month of the year is taken care off now; another very exciting trip is in the middle of January 2010 until the end of the month. Then on February 24 our Photo Workshop in Rajasthan India starts... until March 4. After our Photo Workshop in India I have another very big and exciting surprise but that one has to wait too… yes I know, my suspense again, sorry about that.
Don’t worry I let the cat out of the bag soon enough, you just have to stay tuned. I know, a lot of riddles today!

© Gunther Deichmann - Reflections on the Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia

Going through the equipment check now and have to pack my bags by Friday, from the 8th of December I try to update my Blog at least every two days from the Heritage Suite Hotel direct from Siem Reap, and of course the latest news from the Heritage Adventures as well.
In between all of this I have some Aperture 2, iLife and iWork Seminars and Workshops at the Power Mac Center in Manila, for sure a very busy but exciting start for 2010.
GD

Heritage Suite Hotel


http://www.heritage-adventures.com

Creating real reflections... without Photoshop.

It is nice sometimes when you go back in Time, looking at images you created without a Digital Camera and the use of Photoshop, remembering the good old days...

Creating reflection, distortions and other simple effects is easy these days, a few clicks and you’re done in Photoshop, flipping an image and vola you have a great reflection.
As for me... I create these images without the help of Photoshop!

© Gunther Deichmann - Phnom Penh, Cambodia 1992

The other day I went through my archives and came across one of those images, taken in Phnom Penh in 1992, Pol Pot was still hiding somewhere in the Jungle near Phnom Kulen near Siem Reap. Memories starting to flash in front of my eyes...the "Wild West" days of Cambodia...bad memories carved into the faces of Cambodians... the Killing Fields still fresh in their mind... a time I will never forget.

I arrived in Phnom Penh the same time as the United Nations covering a major story on the Mekong River for Animan Magazine in Switzerland. One afternoon while walking the streets of Phnom Penh I noticed this nice reflection on this car roof parked right in front of me. I rested the camera carefully on the car roof trying not to scratch the paint and took the image above. Using an FM 2 Nikon with a 15 mm lens and Kodachrome 25.

What is interesting... 18 years later... I still create my reflections the same way without the use of Photoshop, except I am using a Digital Camera now.

Taken in 1992 the image above is a good example, but so are the ones from 2009, see below Photos from Cambodia and India. None of them have been treated in Photoshop, using Aperture 2 only for cropping and the basic Raw file adjustments.

© Gunther Deichmann - abstract reflections at the Taj Mahal India 2009

I have also updated my PhotoShelter Gallery on India with some new edits and have added a NEW Gallery from my recent trip to Cambodia. LINKS to the updated Galleries in PhotoShelter: New Cambodia 2009 & updated India..added some additional Photos

© Gunther Deichmann - Bayon Temple area,
the Bridge, Cambodia 2009

There is also one more Gallery from Cambodia but this one is password protect due to a pending article, don’t worry I open this one in due time, I guess it is my suspense again.

© Minding the Goats, Thar Desert Rajasthan India 2009

Please Note:
We only have two (2) more vacancies for our GD PhotoWorkshop in India, March/Feb. 2010, hurry and book now before you miss out on this incredible trip to India.
GD

Visions in the making…

http://www.deichmann-photo.com/

Changing ones website, content etc… a never-ending story. Above the new Intro Page

I decided the other day to change the intro page on my main web gallery…for how long I don’t know, lets see. We made also some changes to the Home page with new images. Not that much has changed, but I felt it needed a little freshening up…. hope you like it.

Now to Bantey Ampoeu, a remote Khmer temple hidden in the Jungle and a great example of natures power if left alone. Fantastic vegetation… trees have grown and covering this hidden marvel and one feels like Indiana Jones.

© Gunther Deichmann - Bantey Ampoeu


© Gunther Deichmann - Bantey Ampoeu

Converting some of those Indiana Jones like images into Black &
White looks very cool too, a feeling of going back in time with the help
of Aperture 2 & the Monochrome Mixer.

Bantey Ampoeu is certainly off the tourist track and during the Monsoon can be reached only by Ox Cart… a one and half hour journey through Rice Fields and Jungle. This is my favorite time of the year to check out those hidden places.

© Gunther Deichmann - Bantey Ampoeu


© Gunther Deichmann - on the way to Bantey Ampoeu


© Gunther Deichmann - "passing traffic..."

Difficult to get there in the rainy season but the colors and vegetation in the late afternoon make it a very rewarding journey, as long you don’t mind the Leeches and getting into "Muddy Waters".

Thanks to Didier from the Heritage Adventures who took me to Bantey Ampoeu during the worst…but for me the best time of the year.
GD

http://www.heritage-adventures.com


Heritage Suite Hotel in Siem Reap

Wake up early in the morning...


© Gunther Deichmann - early morning
on the Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia

A short QT fun movie created with FotoMagico from our last Photo Workshop in Cambodia;
Behind the scene... Giggles... and a little fun with Aperture 2, GarageBand, FotoMagico and final export using Quick Time. The Title...Wake up early in the Morning... came about that all our excursions started around 4 to 5 AM everyday and the Giggles where part of our daily routine... just a fun and great group. The Soundtrack was entirely produced in GarageBand and since we had so much fun I just couldn't help myself in getting this one out...of course I had to add some Giggles...
Now listen to the "Giggle Band" & Wake up early in the Morning just click the LINK below. Plus all the info on FotoMagico below too.

http://www.deichmann-photo.com/page8/page8.html

© Gunther Deichmann - having a bath? Early morning,
the water Village on the Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia

I have mention FotoMagico a few times in my previous Blog post's, but the latest FotoMagico 3 Version 3.0.8 is so cool and for those of you who are not familiar with it I can highly recommend it.
I also introduced it to my students recently in Cambodia and they fell in love with it.
An excellent software easy to use with superb quality, you have all the settings you ever going to need for producing high end slide shows/presentations (including HDTV) or export it to the web.
You can add sound, text plus some cool transitions at your finger tips, great integration on the Mac with access to your
Media Browser for Aperture, iPhoto, iTunes etc. for more info go to:
http://www.boinx.com/fotomagico/overview/
GD

Present on: Options upon opening FotoMagico


The interface, easy and simple to use


Share... plenty to choose from

"Light is photography, photography is light."
...a magic moment in Cambodia!



© Gunther Deichmann - the magic of natural light,
Cambodia 2009

To finish the month of October, I decided today to share this Photograph with you . The Image above is from my last trip to Cambodia...remember I mention in one of my previous posts that I keep you in suspense, well here is one of them, others will follow... and more suspense again.
No more words needed now...enjoy natures gift to us... called light!

"Eyes-like light, without it we can't see." GD

First of all…my apologies if you experienced some problems with the latest Blog post, we had some major interruption and technical glitches on the Internet during uploading of the most recent post and images. Sorry for the inconvenience.
It has been quiet a task and a few hours (24) to get everything back to normal and running smooth again.
Also make sure you refresh your Browser once you in the Gallery if you don’t see the latest images, thank you. Color also might varies from one screen to another.

© Gunther Deichmann – Novice Buddhist Monk exploring
Angkor Wat, Cambodia 2009

To view the special prepred Gallery click on the Image above or this LINK
or go to the menu bar above Small Taste of the Latest - Cambodia.

Please Note: More images will also be available shortly in my PhotoShelter Archives with a NEW Gallery.

A "Small Taste of the Latest from Cambodia"... I arrived in Siem Reap a few days earlier prior the start of our GD PhotoWorkshop, checking things out and getting ready for the arrival of my students. Today I like to share with you some images from these few days before and the ones I managed to sneak in during our Workshop...when I had the chance.
Thanks to Aperture 2 my editing (the only software) is just about done but now I have to start the painful job in uploading high res. files to my agency archives in Europe.
I also stayed a few extra days after the workshop to work on a particular project, but those Images I can’t post yet due to a variety of reasons...
OK. here we go again my suspense is killing everybody...

Everybody had left by now with the exception of Jamie, who had decided to hang around, exploring some amazing places. I have been sworn to secrecy for the time being, but don't worry you get to see them soon enough.
(Ha, ha Jamie too)
I hope you enjoy these latest images from Cambodia, which for me is one of the most exciting places to visit in Asia.

Once we have everything in place I defiantly share with you some rare and amazing images, but for now…the ones from today have to do.


Don't forget we are taking bookings now for our India Photo Workshop in early March 2010, and have only limited space available. (Total Number of participants is only eight)

For insights on India please check my PhotoShelter Galleries so you can get a little “Taste of India.”

GD

In between...when I had the time.


© Gunther Deichmann - "just a leaf"
Ta Prohm, Cambodia Sept.2009

The past few days I have been busy with editing and compiling an article, hence the reason for being so quiet, plus I have to admit that I have a slight hangover from last night.
Luis Harder invited me over to his place, giving him a hand to set up his additional screen and sorting out a few minor things in Aperture 2.
Of course good old Luis had prepared a great meal, fantastic food and some good red wine, actually the wine was so good that I ended up indulging myself more then it was good for me today, anyway we had a great evening talking shop. Thanks Luis for a cool evening.

A few days ago our "Cowgirl" Jamie send me this fantastic testimonial from our Photo Workshop, after reading it I had watery eyes, thank you so much Jamie not only for what you wrote but also for your kindness and great friendship.
For the testimonials go to GD PhotoWorkshop or click this LINK.

Now a GD Photo Workshop announcement; the bookings for our Indian Photo Workshop are open, this one we have to start early with our bookings the exact dates and Itinerary will be finalized shortly but it is in early March 2010. Due to popular demand we have only 4 more vacancies, the total number of participants is NOT exceeding eight students.

© Gunther Deichmann - "The Window"
Bayon Temple Cambodia Sept.2009

The Photos today are taken "in between" our lessons at Ta Prohm & BayonTemple when I was wondering around finding some interesting subject matters for the group to shoot. My editing is almost complete and I am uploading my images shortly into my PhotoShelter archives, once done I advise you and you can check out the NEW Gallery on Cambodia.
If you have not done so, check out the photos The Students work just click this LINK and the fun images Behind the Scene or go above to the Menu bar.
GD

HANDS ON IN CAMBODIA SEPT. 2009

In the field & the workflow after the shoot
with MacBook Pro's using Aperture 2.

Check out these cool images & click this LINK or go to The Students work on the top bar, you can also click on the image above.
I hope you're going to enjoy them as much as I have.


The Photographs by: Jamie Irenaliena Rayer Keet, Joerg Schueler, Luis Martin Harder, Hubert Weber and Richard Cawthra. They selected six images of their choice I didn’t chose or performed any editing. It was my pleasure to guide this cool group through Photography in the field and then using Aperture 2 for the workflow after the shoot. Plus the Journey to some of the amazing places in Cambodia during our GD Photo Workshop "Angkor Wat & beyond... thank you all for being such a warm and happy group, you have been fantastic! Hope to see you in India next year!
GD

Below is my personal thanks to all those people who
made this Photo Workshop a successful one.

I have also uploaded some of the first testimonials, you can read them
at GD Photo Workshops top bar or click the image above or this LINK.

Thank’s to Jamie from Jakarta, Indonesia, Joerg from Shanghai, China, Luis from Manila, Philippines, Richard from HongKong and Hubert also from Manila, Philippines for their participation in my PhotoWorkshop, Angkor Wat & beyond…you have been a fantastic Group, thank you very much for your kind words and friendship, miss you all.
A very special thanks goes out to Didier from Heritage Adventures for the additional insights. (even Didier became for a few days one of my students)
I am also grateful to the Management and staff from the Heritage Suite Hotel who made all of this possible with their smile and hard work, you made our stay just so fantastic, thank you from the bottom of my heart. A very, special mention goes to my good friend and long time Guide Savuth who was beside us all the time not only carrying some equipment but digging out the bogged 4X4 wheel drive at Mt. Kulen too, thanks my friend.
GD

I choose today’s Images because of what is happen in Asia & the Pacific; Quake in Indonesia, the Tsunami in Samoa, the floods in the Philippines, Vietnam and now also in Cambodia…I just got word that Siem Reap also got affected badly by Typhhon KETSANA...mud and rain... flooded Countries.

The news has been literally full of very disturbing images from all those effected regions, people have lost their lives and property, it has been a very violent September and October. Mother Earth has sent her wrath down on us with her destructive force.
My thoughts go out to all those people who have suffered greatly during this trying times, this is NATURE and a stark reminder that we are at the mercy off it at times…no technology can prevent the fury of Nature.

The Images on today’s Blog have been taken just outside the Ta Prohm Temple on a rainy and very wet morning during our recent Photo Workshop in Siem Reap Cambodia '09, I call it "Muddy Waters" I hope a welcome change from all those disturbing images from the past few days and days to come.
(I guess the name comes for my Love for Blues)

Original file prior using the Monochchrome Mixer in Aperture 2


© Gunther Deichmann - "Muddy Waters" reflection in a muddy water
paddle outside the Ta Prohm Temple, original above changed into a
Black & White image using the Monochrome Mixer in Aperture 2.

Built in the Bayon style largely in the late 12th and early 13th centuries, it is at Ta Prohm, where some of the original vegetation has been left un-cleared by archaeologists.

Visiting Cambodia in the off season can be a challenge but it is also very rewarding, amazing shades of greens are found all over the temples and in the country side. Fantastic opportunities for Photographers who search for something different, it is for sure my favorite time to visit these amazing places in the worst time of the year. There are few Tourists around and the landscape is ever changing into amazing colors. But be prepared and take good precaution, it can get very wet and uncomfortable during this time of the year.

And just one more...Green with envy!


© Gunther Deichmann - "when there is water there is also new life!"
A seedling... a new tree. In the Jungle of Mt. Kulen, Cambodia '09

In my next Blog post when the Internet connections have improved... remember we still have Typhoon PARMA hanging around, I post a New Gallery with six images from each participant from the Photo Workshop in Cambodia, it is there preferred choice from the trip, so please stay tuned. They all did a great Job!
In the meantime why dont you check out the images from Behind the scene...just click this LINK.
GD

Behind the Scene from Cambodia...

Photos of everybody by everybody from our recent GD PhotoWorkshop
in Cambodia.

© Gunther Deichmann - Wet season at Preah Khan,
Angkor Wat Cambodia 2009

It has been an incredible week, just back from Cambodia and right into the floods and sadness of Manila, not to mention the World News from Palau on the Worlds first Shark Sanctuary. I have uploaded the behind the scene Photos from our recent Journey and Cambodian PhotoWorkshop adventure on this Blog. The best of six images from the participants will be uploaded also shortly but today it is behind the scenes, the funny part of our Photo Workshop.

© Gunther Deichmann - Sunrise at Mt. Kulen,
Cambodia 2009

View the gallery and click this LINK or choose Behind the Scene GDPWS Cambodia 2009. Once open click on the thumb nails to view larger images

Many thanks to all my students, you have been an incredible Group, listening, learning but you also made me laugh non stop. Thank you all very much for your attitude and friendship. It has been a great trip and hopefully I see some of you in India next year, details be announce soon on this Blog. March/April are the tentative month.
GD

Since arriving back from Cambodia things have been very hectic…I really needed a good break, but no such luck, plus all this rain doesn’t make it any easier.

© Gunther Deichmann - Buddhist Nun at Preah Khan,
Angkor Siem Reap Cambodia Sept.'09

"I hope she is praying for good weather."
Please take a few moments and think about those people who
are stranded and their homes are underwater or lost.

It is raining Cat and Dogs in Manila, the worst I have seen in a very long time, then yesterday Palau in the Limelight with an extraordinary achievement declaring at the UN in New York the Worlds first Shark Sanctuary, a little update on Snow Leopard, Aperture 2.1.4 & slowly drifting back to my recent Photo Workshop in Cambodia.

© Gunther Deichmann - Novice Monk at the Monastery near
Angkor Wat, nice Weather and a smiling face. Cambodia Sept. 2009

Wow what a mix today… a Kaleidoscope of recent events.
But then it is raining or should I say pouring non-stop, nobody dares to go outside into the flooded streets of Manila including myself. A friend of mine tried to visit me today, but no way... he couldn’t get out of his Hotel...

Manila is flooded, period! The only way to commute today is by Boat !

I just made it home last night…& now we lost power too...nice to have a Mac BookPro with a fully charged Battery and what better way to recap the past few days in a few sentences on today’s Blog, the only question is when do I get this post uploaded, your guess is as good then mine...

© Gunther Deichmann - this Butterfly landed right in front of me,
getting salt from the stones inside Preah Khan,
Siem Reap, Cambodia Sept. 2009

Lets start with Snow Leopard and the things I discovered during my recent trip to Cambodia.
Encountered a small problem in Aperture 2.1.4 whereas the Original images took time to appear after they had been modified, the version showed up but the Original Raw file took some time to show.
That small problem has now gone away after I upgraded to the latest Version of Snow Leopard 10.6.1 upon my return from Cambodia.
Everything else worked just flawless and I encountered no other glitches with SL and Aperture 2.1.4 dealing with over 3000 plus images on location. ,

I also notice that there is no more Software update via the Desktop, (Download Only) now you have to go direct into the system, which is fine, but if you have a slow connection or get interrupted that could cause a problem. Why Apple has removed this I don’t know, maybe it is a Copyright/Piracy issue, who knows!

Otherwise I am extremely happy with Snow Leopard, fast and efficient a great operating system and definitely worth every cent, as a matter of fact, great value for US$ 29.95. BTW the battery life on my new MacBook Pro is just awesome. Some of my students in Cambodia also used for the first time SL and encountered no problems either.

© Gunther Deichmann - reflections of the Sure Prot Angkor Thom Ruins
at Sunset,directly opposite the Elephant Terraces,
Siem Reap, Cambodia Sept. 2009

Back from Cambodia only a couple of days, I had already a session at the Power Mac Center on iWork ’09 with Keynote and Pages.

__________________________________________________________

Then the NEWS came in from Palau, the first World Shark Sanctuary declared by the President of Palau at the United Nations in New York last Friday. This small Island Nation in the Pacific has shown the rest of the world how to stop the killing of our Sharks, congratulations again to Palau and I am proud to be associated with the Shark Sanctuary in Palau.
http://www.palautours.com/blog.html

Contact the Palau Shark Sanctuary:
http://www.sharksanctuary.com/contact-us.html
email : sharksanctuary@gmail.com
Tel:      + 680-488-1062
Cell:    +  680-775-1062
Palau is GMT + 9 hours / same time zone as Japan.

For more Images on Palau please visit my Photo Shelter Galleries & follow the LINKS below:

1.General:  http://pa.photoshelter.com/c/gdeichmann/gallery/Palau-Micronesia-Tribal-Aerial-Waterfall-Animals-Landscape-People-Islands-Tourism-Jellyfish/G0000C.NjlJIRAik/

2. Aerials: http://pa.photoshelter.com/c/gdeichmann/gallery/1-Palau-Micronesia-Aerials-Jan-2008-largest-collection-of-aerial-Photography-on-Palau/G00000jBlBEacoyY/

3. Aerials 2: http://pa.photoshelter.com/c/gdeichmann/gallery/2-Palau-Micronesia-Aerials-2nd-Gallery-largest-collection-of-Aerials-on-Palau/G0000EnEkvDHJjo8/

__________________________________________________________

Now back to Cambodia, my sincere thanks to all participants from my last Photo Workshop “Angkor Wat & beyond…” you have been a great group and made my job so much easier, thanks again to you all, I will remember the friendship we shared and for sure the non-stop giggles, thanks to you all I had a great time too.

To the staff and management from the Heritage Suite Hotel in Siem Reap our appreciations for an outstanding job & their incredible hospitality during our stay. Thank you all!

A very special mention and thanks goes to Didier Faraud from the Heritage Adventures for showing us some additional places rarely visited by others. A real adventure... on foot, by 4x4 wheel drive and Ox Cart, thanks a lot Didier.

I have been asked already for more images on Cambodia, please have a little patience I am going to upload the students Gallery asap. But one thing for sure, I was impressed with their images and dedication to Photography, they did an outstanding job not only in the field but after the shoot too using Aperture 2 for the workflow.
More images from the students and myself very soon...so please stay tuned.
GD

The last two days in Cambodia...
I will remember them for sure.


Drying the gear...did it help? Not really!

My last day in Cambodia was less eventful than the day before when my Camera bag dropped into the Rice Paddy from the Ox Cart, one Camera body and one lens has to go for a major repair Job to Nikon in Singapore. (I am glad I always bring a back up... second Camera boddy and lens)Today my last day...a little less exciting, we only got bogged with our 4X4 Wheel drive in black mud....ha, ha a slight reminder of my good old Australian Days in the outback. Jamie is lending a hand and whipping up the text from the past two days, see below. Now I have to do some packing, get some rest and take my dirty mud coverd laundry back to Manila.

© Jamie Irenaliena Rayer Keet - push.........

A very special thank you again to Didier Faraud from the Heritage Adventure who really went out of his way to show us some places where "almost" no man had gone before. As a matter of fact the minefields in this area had only been cleared last year, some very special images will follow once I am back in Manila. Of course Aperture 2 made it possible again to go through 3000 plus images very quickly and efficiently.
As for me...I will definitely return to this truly amazing place, discovering more places "where almost no man has gone before." GD

© Jamie Irenaliena Rayer Keet - the Ox Cart adventure...

Here is Jamie's story...
Going wireless in the jungle isn’t such a bad idea. The last two searches I hastily punched into my Blackberry were “How to remove leeches”, and “Images of undetonated explosive devices, aka mines”. All told, the former is a slightly complicated task of examining and gently dislodging, while the latter come in a selection of shapes and sizes. The ones featured in the Siem Reap Mine museum were of the communist grey colored, circular variety. What do leeches and mines have in common? Upon encountering either, do not Freak Out. Easier said than done.
The photo workshop was over and we were taking a short break from the hectic week. Ever brimming with wild ideas, Didier had planned an easy afternoon trip out to explore a temple in the woods.
After an hour’s drive on bumpy roads in the 4x4, we arrived at a hut. Five pairs of eyes stared back at us as we climbed out into the afternoon sun and Didier launched into a conversation in Khmer with a local. In a few minutes our next ride appeared.

© Jamie Irenaliena Rayer Keet - hey...you just lost your bag...

Travelling by ox cart is not entirely an uncomfortable experience, but by the time you arrive at your supposed destination, you would’ve probably had your wits bounced out of you. Not to mention the possibility of having your camera bag floating in a rice paddy. We were too busy keeping balance, pointing DSLRs at the farmers and getting our perfect shots. No one took any notice of the weathered local on the opposite ox cart frantically waving his stick, pointing towards some obscure spot behind us and yelling in Khmer. By the time we turned and noticed a big black object sinking in muddy waters, it was a little too late. Nonetheless, Didier dashed the 100m and waded back with the dripping pack. It was GD’s camera bag fully loaded. There was nothing to be done but to check the damage later.
After the temple we headed to a camera repair shop. One of the lenses was flooded and stubbornly refused to let out the water. “No can do” said the shopkeeper. Unfazed, Didier suddenly had a better idea and he started to shake the lens in all directions. While Didier was attempting to salvage the drowning lens, GD had found new distraction. A robed monk was sitting at the computer screen in the shop, and GD was trying to get a shot of him sat paradoxically under a flat screen TV with a Jackie Chan movie flashing above him. Didier got as much water as he could out of the lens, GD got his shot of the monk, and we headed back to the fort.
On the way back in the jeep, I plugged in another online search: “How not to freak out”.
Jamie Irenaliena Rayer Keet :)

Heritage Adventure

Today’s Blog Post… for a change not written by me but by one of my cool Students Jamie; I only did the uploading … read below what she has to complain about …

“You’re too clean!” exclaimed a delighted Gunther (GD) grinning at me.
I looked over at him and the rest of the mud clad, sweat soaked photography crew towering over me. The six of us would’ve easily repelled the likes of any tourist, or ‘terrorist’, as GD often fondly refers to the throngs of out-of-towners.

© Jamie Irenaliena Rayer Keet - Angkor Wat color converted into
B&W using the Monochrome Mixer in Aperture 2.

Looking down at my soiled boots and algae stained shorts, I gingerly brushed the sand out of my greasy limp ponytail. “Well I think I’m perfectly unsanitary enough, thank you very much,” I threw back bemusedly at him before laying down upon the 14th Century laterite stones of the incredible Preah Khan temple in Siem Reap. I was trying for yet another shot at my elusive subject, which happened to be an enormous silk cotton tree growing on the top of a 900 yr old temple in serious disrepair, and dirt was the last thing on my mind. Hanging around GD gives one oodles of ideas, and most of them leave you craving for a bath at the end of the day.

Indeed GD had promised an intense 6 day, 5 night photography course in Cambodia, but he sure hadn’t warned us that learning was going to be so much fun. Our outdoor photography classroom included stunning ancient temple ruins, polychromatic floating villages, lush tropical jungles, waterfalls, caves, local food huts, bar counters, and last but not least the infamous ‘round table’ where all of us eagerly gathered for our highly animated photo editing sessions on Aperture 2.

The group was utterly fantastic, relaxed and mutually supportive throughout. In fact, we hovered along a fine line between taking serious photographs and turning each other into hilarious nutty fruitcakes. We simply laughed as much as we learned. And believe me, we were rolling in the aisles.

© Jamie Irenaliena Rayer Keet - Angkor Wat APSARA Dancer at
Angkor Wat, Siem Reap Cambodia.

What amazed me most was that in less than a week in the field with GD, my photographic vision had changed dramatically. Comparing the shots I had taken from the first day to the fifth, I could see a significant difference in my subject composition, understanding of calculated exposure and improved editing skills. “The goal is that by the end of the week, you’re going to look at things differently,” GD promised at the outset.

And whether that left us mud caked or not, he was right.
Jamie Irenaliena Rayer Keet :)

We are proud to be associated with the Heritage Suite Hotel in Siem Reap

A Photographic Journey through
the Cambodian Jungle.


© Gunther Deichmann - an "Elephant" in the Jungle of Phnom Kulen

We left the Heritage Suite Hotel at 4:30 AM yesterday…the last day of our Photo Workshop for Kulen to the river of a thousand Lingas and the Kulen Waterfall.

Hard at work...trying to get the right angle and catching the light.

My trusted Guide over many years, Savuth taking a break

But the highlight of the day was a very special trip in the afternoon deep into the Jungle to a seldom visited place that can only be reached by 4X4 wheel drive and then another hour on foot.
A lot more images from this destination will follow in the coming weeks…believe me this place is absolutely amazing.
I am still catching up with some sleep, long hours everyday the past week, but fun and very rewarding for all in the Group.

A long but very rewarding walk...

© Gunther Deichmann - Mt. Kulen Waterfall...

Just one more...

Now, where did he come from? A new Student?
Luis Harder and an unexpected fan, at the River of the thousand Lingas.

As mentioned above some amazing images will follow later, but today I like to share with you Photos from the Participants in action during this trip in the Jungle.
GD

Special thanks again to Didier from Heritage
Adventures for making this trip possiable.


www.heritage-adventures.com

www.heritage-adventures.com

Due to some difficulties the past few days with our internet connection and early morning hour Photography trips I keep this Blog brief and rather let the images do the talking...

Aperture 2 & MacBook's Pro at the
Heritage Suite Hotel, Siem Reap
The Workflow after the shoot!

We are into our fourth day and I am extremely impressed with the Images from my students, as a matter of fact they have really outdone themselves, not only in the field but everybody has reached a very good level and expertise on Aperture 2...the workflow after the shoot.
Special thanks to Didier Faraud from the Heritage Adventure who is organizing some very special trips for us and of course the Management from the Heritage Suite Hotel in Siem Reap, who has provided us with and excellent service throughout the week.

Above images: On the Tonle Sap Cambodia

I the next couple of weeks I be reporting in more details from the whole trip and put up a special Gallery with images from all the Participants...today is only a small appetizer from this morning.

© Joerg Schueler, life on the Tonle Sap


© Hubert Weber, reflections the Tonle Sap


© Luis Martin Harder, the Tonle Sap


© Richard Cawthra,
Tonle Sap Lake, Cambodia

Tomorrow is another 4:30 AM start, so I sign off now, but a lot more from Cambodia and our Photo Workshop soon.
GD

Great Weather...good Company
& amazing images.

© Gunther Deichmann - my first shot at the Monastery near the Hotel
last Friday 11th of September

Sorry for the long silence but I did have some problems with the connection the past few days. With a bit of luck it will get better in the next few days.
My students took some amazing Photographs since the start of the workshop two days ago, a very cool selection will follow shortly.

© Gunther Deichmann - the Group working with available
light at Preah Khan Temple

A great bunch and amazingly all using MacBooks Pro's with Aperture 2 loaded except for on using Lightroom on his Mac.
Tomorrow we start at 4:45 for our sunrise session, but this time not at Angkor Wat, I keep you in suspense again, the Heritage Suite Hotel Management has organized are real cool trip. Hence the reason I have to keep it very brief now, need some sleep and a good rest.

More in the next few days...
G, night from Siem Reap Cambodia,
GD

September is approaching fast and so is our Photo Workshop,
Angkor Wat & beyond… Siem Reap Cambodia.


Above: I love the integration on the Mac, pure speed and
efficiency, creating artwork with ease using Pages in iWork ‘09

In a few days I switch gears and getting ready for another exciting trip with students discovering the beauty in this remarkable place with its ancient history and culture.
Once in Cambodia I try my very best to update my Blog and Twitter every 48 hours from our Base at The Heritage Suite Hotel with stories and images from the day’s events, including the best Photograph from each day taken by one of the students.

Packing the gear and final preparation are on my agenda in the next few days, I know my Students getting excited, as for me no explanation is needed… I just love Cambodia where you can always discover something new and exciting.

© Gunther Deichmann - the way of life in the province, transporting a block
Ice on a small Motorbike, from the provicial Town to the Village.
South of Siem Reap Cambodia

I have lined up a few more interesting posts for the next few days before I start my articles on Cambodia in earnest.
GD

“Light is Photography,
Photography is Light.” GD

It’s raining cat and dogs for the past few days, there is still Color around us, but you have to bring your Camera along. The shot below, taken from the Car Window on the way to a meeting while stuck in a traffic Jam in Manila.

© Gunther Deichmann - Yakal Street Makati 100 yards from
Santis & Cave Werdenberg
a great stop for some light meals and superb Wine.

The image above and other NEW images from the past few days already residing in my PhotoShelter Gallery/Archives. (New Manila, Aug. ‘09, including some interesting once from inside a Church)

__________________________

Now from the Philippines to Cambodia; my GDPhotoWorkshop in September ’09 “Angkor Wat & Beyond” Siem Reap, Cambodia is fast approaching, we’re ready to go in September and bookings are closed now. Just a few images below from one of my earlier trips to Angkor Wat Siem Reap, Cambodia.

© Gunther Deichmann - APSARA traditional Khmer Dancer, Bayon


© Gunther Deichmann - Lingas in the river bed, Phnom Kulen is the holiest
mountain in Cambodia & the river of 1000 Lingas, a powerful sacred site
for Cambodians, even today.

However, I make a major announcement very shortly regarding all my future PhotoWorkshops including more to Cambodia, (this year) but also into Laos and other Exotic destinations in Asia, plus preparations are made for India in 2010.

© Gunther Deichmann - Women Priest at
Bayon Temple Angkor Wat area, Cambodia

© Gunther Deichmann - Buddhist Monk, Siem Reap Cambodia

Please stay tuned for more information very, soon.
GD

The Colors of Rajasthan India continuos...


© Gunther Deichmann - “I been watched”
Jodhpur Rajasthan India , April 2009

Since my return from Bangkok and the TDEX show I have been working on my project from India, but a lot more work has to be done, I post some more details during the month of June. To view some selected images from India click this LINK or go to http://www.deichmann-photo.com/india.html

By end of next week you find also the final details on our upcoming GD Photo-Workshop on my
GD Photo-Workshop Site, already booked participants however will receive an email within the next few days with all the information.
We are almost fully booked, so if you’re interested please contact me ASAP, final closing date for bookings will be June 22, 2009.
As mention previously in my Blog, this GD PhotoWorkshop will go beyond Angkor Wat and for the first time we have included the Tonle Sap Lake and some other interesting places seldom visit by Tourists.
“6 nights and 7 days from the 13th until the 19th of September”
Please subscribe to my Blog & stay tuned for the final details shortly...
GD

Due to popular demand I have posted some more details on the GD Photo Workshop for this coming September in Siem Reap Cambodia, see below the details:

This workshop will include the Tonle Sap Lake and the Water Village, furthermore we be exploring some ancient Temples/Ruins seldom visited by others except you.
Of course we still visit and shoot at Angkor Wat during Sunrise and Sunset, plus a lot more during this trip.
As you know I am always good for a surprise or two...
Total lengths of the Workshop is from Sunday (exact date to be announced in May) to Saturday (7 nights in a luxury Boutique Hotel) Photography in the field, the workflow and critic after the shoot - class room sessions at the Hotel...but don’t worry we spend more time in the field and get the shot right in the first place.

More details; what to bring, cost per per person, etc., will be available in May, but participants can travel from their Home destination to Siem Reap in Cambodia direct, upon arrival we have made all the necessary arrangements for your transport to the Hotel.
You can contact me @ http://www.deichmann-photo.com/contact/contact.php
GD

Announcement...next GDPhotoWorkshop
I am happy to announce our GDPhotoWorkShop for the month of September ’09 ...with the title

“Siem Reap, Angkor Wat & beyond.”

This is only the initial announcement, all other details will be posted upon my return from India towards the end of May.
If you’re interested you can contact me and reserve your space without any obligation for the time being, final bookings have to be made by latest August 15, 2009. With only 8 to 12 max participants I recommend you make your bookings early, just click this LINK: http://www.deichmann-photo.com/contact/contact.php
GD

Like many other Photographers we try to to show the good side of life, but in this case I like to bring to everybody's attention, the madness and sadness still visible for many years to come in Cambodia, where ever you go or travel in this sheer beautiful Country you came across some one who has suffered beyond you imagination.
These are the land-mine Victims of Cambodia, at one point one of the heaviest land-mined countries in the world, most of the mines have been cleared now, but there are still some hidden in remote regions. I ask myself WHY?
The image below, the victim and his trusty dog, would you carry that bucket?
I guess not!
Yes, indeed hard words but a reality, think for a moment and try to understand, I myself did a lot of thinking during many trips to Cambodia, but I never will understand this madness, War and Land-mines for what?
A simple farmer attending to his needs and then boom......., burned, blind and lost limbs, who can take care of his children and family now?
Please think about it when traveling through out Cambodia, support these unfortunately people, even a little will go a long way, but please dont close your eyes and just walk past as if nothing happens, it did, dont ignore it.
Why I am writing this? So we wont forget!
Thanks for your support and Buddha bless,
GD

© Gunther Deichmann, Phnom Kolen Temple,
Cambodia Sept. 2007

Hi everybody,
I have decided to make a quick podcast from all the GDPhoto workshop participants, with some cool sounds created in GarageBand,
from Aperture to iPhoto and QuickTime easy on a Mac and a lot of fun too.
For more images on our participants please click here.
Check it out at the link below, you find this one and some others also on YouTube,
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Gunther+Deichmann&search=Search
Enjoy.
Just click here
GD

© Gunther Deichmann, Cambodia, Sept. 2007
Darling,where is the Casino???
You sure we are at the right place?
Check out the design on the Guys shirt,
playing Cards,
No explanation needed for the girl,
you all know, I love red and contrast.

Just received this interesting information from no other than our good old Walter Ty, thanks Walter.
For more stories related to Angkor Wat and Siam Reap in Cambodia please go to: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/asia-pacific/7015647.stm

The Images from the workshop participants during our last trip in Cambodia you find at: http://gdphotoworkshop.com/images.html

© Gunther Deichmann, Cambodia 2007
Selected images by GD

Cambodia bid to protect treasures

By Guy De Launey
BBC News, Siem Reap
Statues with no heads in Angkor Wat
Looting is evident even at protected Angkor Wat Cambodia has invited international law enforcement agencies to help protect the country's ancient temples.
US homeland security and FBI agents are among those who may be advising the new national heritage police force. They are hoping to put an end to the rampant looting that has seen many monuments stripped of their statues. Peace has not been kind to many of Cambodia's ancient monuments. As decades of conflict ended in the 1990s, looting accelerated dramatically. The local authorities and the United Nations' cultural organisation, Unesco, moved quickly to protect the world-famous Angkor Wat and its surrounding temples.
But more remote sites were left to their fate.

Stolen-to-order
US agents and local officers have been meeting in Siem Reap to discuss ways of protecting what is left. US special agent Ann Hurst said their experience of dealing with stolen artefacts from Iraq will be crucial.
"We can provide training in how to prevent these types of violations. There were stolen paintings and stolen coins being taken out of Iraq and smuggled in to the US," she said.
"What we did in those cases was prosecute the people who smuggled the goods in - and the people who accepted the goods in the US." Many Cambodian items have been stolen to order for private collectors.
Others have turned up at international auction houses, so expertise in intercepting illicit shipments is badly needed. Technical assistance in detection and policing will also bolster the thinly-stretched and poorly-funded local forces.
For Cambodia, stopping the looting is partly a matter of pride - the towers of Angkor adorn the national flag - but as tourism grows, so does the economic importance of preserving ancient treasures.

© Gunther Deichmann, Cambodia 2007

As mention in my earlier blog, all the participants have been so great and kind with their comments on my recent workshop in Cambodia, thank you again so much,
I said before you have been a "Great Bunch". Buddha bless you all!

Hi Mr. GD,
Welcome back! Just wanted to say I had the best time in Cambodia. Loved the different sights, sounds, culture, people and food! As the youngest (assuming?) and greenest one among the "great bunch", I have to say I probably learned the most from you and even some of the guys (Kuya Luis was really great with encouraging me). This experience has taught me not to be content on just waiting for the moment but going out and looking for it. Be proud in knowing that you have touched my life by inspiring me through your wisdom.
Thank you,
Jasmin


Hey Gunther,
Good to know you're back.
Haven't thanked you enough for our Cambodia experience as well the friendship you have extended.
Would have loved to stay and extra day to shoot Tonle Sap, well, maybe next time.
Hope to shoot with you again and perhaps a couple of beers in Malate/Penguin.

Later,
Bebet


Dear Gunther,
Welcome back!  I heard from Francis that everyone had a great time with the workshop.  Congratulations. =)

Best Regards,
Lawrence

© Gunther Deichmann
"Shooting in the Rain" - Boy and Pumpkin after the workshop.
No my Nikon didn't get flooded, but I did!

I just arrived back from the Photo Workshop in Cambodia, I am sad, I just love that Country, incredible culture and history, but most of all real nice people.
Please see below some of the testimonials I have received from some of the workshop participants, again thanks to all who participated, you all did great.
GD.

HI Gunther,
 
Thanks a lot friend. You’re not only a great photographer and artist but a real cool companion, friend and mentor. You made our trip to Cambodia very memorable and our experience worth more than sharing to our families and friend. Although I have the tendency to shift to my own world when we hit the road for our photo shoots – I always have in my mind the images in your book and the lessons and insights you have unselfishly shared to us in the class. Having said that, my experience at the Cambodia GDPhotoWorkshop has vastly influenced and enriched my knowledge in photography. Thanks a lot Mr. Gunther Deichmann – you’re the man.
 
Best regards,
Luis Harder
WINGS TECHNOLOGIES ENTERPRISES



Hey Gunther!!!
 How're you doing? Me, I've been showing off my pictures in Cambodia (untouched) and of course they like what they've seen (i mean my wife and kids - hehehe).
 Aren't you back yet. Hope we can get together again. I really learned a lot from our experience and I thank you and Jun for inviting me.
 See you!
 Jojo Ochoa


Hi Gunther,
I can't begin to tell you what an amazing time I had in Cambodia with you & the amazing people we did the course with, History was in the making I think. We have taken some amazing photo's you have taught me so many things I need to look for. Your eye for seeing incredible things which one would not normally see. Not only these things are special to me but you have inspired me even more, plus my friendship to you has grown even more, for this my friend I thank you for the bottom of my heart .
Cambodia itself ! wow I was in awe not stop the wonder the history the amazing temples this feeling I had in side of me was magical, behind every stone was was story to be told ! around every corner, one could not wait to see what was there to be photographed. I know now that my life has changed & I have to be a Photographer more than anything & you taught me light * color is the key.
As for my new friends please could you pass on this mail to the wonderful people that accepted me as a fellow photographer, you were all very special to me & am excited about new adventures together.
All in all I'm complete & extremely happy with everything the monks were wonderful for the icing on the cake & the hotel everyone was fantastic, last but bby no means the least our trusty guide, which I could never pronounce his name, thanks so much.
Mark Cox
Photographer & Adventurer.

Hi GD,
Congratulations for a very successful workshop. I really learned a lot. My only wish is I can go back again. The group is very happy. Very minor suggestions. We all got back without a hitch.

Regards,
Jun Miranda
President
Philippine Center for Creative Imaging
and Co organizer of the GD Photo Workshop

I am writing this blog from Cambodia, the group has left and I stayed behind for a few extra days, I have provided a direct link to my Aperture Web Gallery of images behind the scene. Images of the participants in action, our Hotel and rooms plus a Buddhist blessing right at the Hotel for the whole group on our last day.
I have to say this group or I call them just a great bunch, have been real cool and some of them booking for Tibet already, we are also planning some more Workshops in Cambodia and of course stay at the Heritage Suite Hotel, again my special thanks to the management in particular to Sylvie and Fabrice for arranging a real Buddhist blessing on our last day.
Many thanks to all and see you soon again for some great Photography, Aperture of course made my life easy during the editing and going direct to the Web Gallery without any problems.Stay tuned for updates on the GDPhotoWorkshop site, soon with a Gallery and winning images.
For more images from this last workshop please go to my Aperture Gallery,
just click here.


© Gunther Deichmann, after the Workshop,
the things you see on the road

WOW !!! Direct from the Heritage Hotel in Siam Reap the very first Blog from the GDPhotoWorkShop.
This is only a quick one just to let everybody know, we had a great time and some of the images from the participants turned out just fantastic, my personal thanks to all who attended this workshop in Siam Reap, Cambodia. You all did a great Job, I am proud for having such great talents around me. Well done.
More details will follow once I finished with all the editing and find more time.
This has been a tough one for all, including myself, everyday 5am until 10pm in the evening. Classroom sessions at lunch and in the evening.
Our very first winner for this event is Luis Harder, he hit it right on, the assignment or subject was to come up with an image which had nothing to do with temples, he took the shot below near the Heritage Hotel. Real great well done Luis!
He is now the proud owner of the Apple Aperture Software, sponsored by the Power Mac Center in Makati. I update and inform everybody regarding the whole event, please let me catch my breath first. There are so many stories to tell and some great images to show from the last few days, and once I am back we have our special galley up soon on the GDPhotoWorkShop web site. Also very soon more details from our sponsors and major prizes later.
Many thanks to Apple Singapore for all the other goodies.
A very special thanks to the management and staff from the Heritage Hotel, a real surprise will follow in my next blog, so please stay tuned or subscribe.


The workshop group at Bayon temple, our last day

Our Classroom at the Heritage Hotel

© Luis Harder, our first winning shot

APERTURE Designed for professional photographers.
http://www.apple.com/aperture
A quick time saving tip for Our Aperture Users who will join me on our photo workshop to Cambodia.
You dont have to wait until we get there, not at all, take a few minutes and set up your Aperture Library now, before the Journey begins.
You all know we are going to Cambodia; just create a project now with the name Cambodia and create some Albums within, e.g.. landscapes, temples, people, traditional, personal etc., etc. and when you ready for importing each day you are all set to go. Another quick tip is to prepare some presets e.g.. your name with Copyright, Country; e.g.. Cambodia, location like Angkor Wat, Siam Reap, Monks, Temples etc.,etc. this want take long at all, just a few minutes before the trip, you can also prepare some common keywords the same way, you be amazed how much time you save later and have more time after the shoot for a relaxing beer or two. For those who are not familiar with these set ups dont worry I be there to guide you trough it, ok only one beer for you.
GD
The GDPhotoWorkShop is supported and sponsored by the following:

Apple Singapore,The Power Mac Center, Makati, Manila, Heritage Suites Hotel, Siam Reap, Cambodia, Sam's Tours Palau, Micronesia and the Philippine-Micronesia Alliance
For other photo workshops in Bali, Indonesia, Palau, Micronesia and Tibet please go to the events Calendar at:
http://gdphotoworkshop.com

Well, time has come, we are all set for our Cambodian Workshop, a few more days and then I try to report from Siam Reap, Angkor Wat, provided I get a good connection. We are leaving this coming Friday and our first shoot is on Saturday early morning, all the participants are very excited about this trip, including myself, even I have been there many times, but there are always some great and new opportunities In Siam Reap, a Photographers paradise.
The shooting is our top priority but seeing all the images later in Aperture on our Computer is going to be really exciting, as mention I try my best to do some blogs direct from the location, however our Gallery with the best images will be up on the GDPhotoWorkshop site up on my return.
Of course I am also looking forward to see my old friends and my guide Savuth again who is guiding us through this unique place, and having the Heritage Hotel as our base is just fantastic.
Thanks to our supporters/sponsors: Apple Singapore, the Power Mac Center in Makati, Manila, Sam's Tours Palau and the Heritage Hotel in Siam Reap we make this Gallery very interesting and a challenge for our participants, we have a lot of surprises in stall for the best images but more on these later.
My gratitude to Jun Miranda from the Philippine Center for Creative Imaging for all his support and hard work.
Reporting soon from Angkor Wat, Siam Reap, Cambodia,
Cheers Gunther or GD

© Gunther Deichmann, Cambodia, 2006

© Gunther Deichmann, Cambodia, 2007
Our Workshop to Cambodia, Angkor Wat is now very near, we are off on the 7th of September, fully booked and we are ready to go for some very exciting photography and exploring the great world heritage sites in and around Siam Reap. For those who could not make it, dont worry we are already scheduling another one for Cambodia soon, just keep checking the GDPhotoWorkshop website and under the Calendar you find all the up coming events. The next workshop is going to be in Bali, Indonesia in November, all the details for this one will be on our site shortly. If I have a good connection I be sending out blogs from the Heritage Hotel in Siam Reap our base during the workshop, for more info on the Heritage Hotel please go to: http://www.heritage.com.kh


© Gunther Deichmann, Tibet 2006
By the way I am getting a lot of interest for the workshop next year in Tibet, (July/August 2008), make sure you contact us soon, since this one has only a limited number of participants (10 max), preparations and bookings have to be made early for this one. Again, for more information and details check our website, stay tuned or subscribe to our blog for the latest NEWS and up dates. For Images on Cambodia, Bali, Palau, Micronesia and Tibet please go to:
deichmann-photo.com
Palau, Micronesia is scheduled for April 2008, with a Marine Biologist and underwater photography in one of the best dive destinations in the world.
Our host in Palau Micronesia is Sam's Tours the premier Dive Center in Palau, for more info please go to: http://www.samstours.com
Thank You,
GD

A travel and after the shoot PhotoWorkshop with Gunther Deichmann, Angkor Wat in Siam Reap,Cambodia. This used to be the largest city in the world around the 12th century, visit with Gunther these ancient monuments and learn how to create better images and re- discover the ancient Culture of Cambodia.

After the shoot you'll experience the sheer Raw power of Aperture. Shoot as many images you like on any given day and mange them afterwards with Aperture, dont worry to much it is not that complicated, Gunther is around and guide you through the whole process. Dont have Aperture? That is ok., Gunther has many years of experience how to deal with images in Photoshop.
For more information and how to book, please go to GDPhotoWorkshop.com
Hurry this workshop is filling up fast!
Visit Gunther's website @ : www.deichmann-photo.com

CAMBODIA
A Photo Safari/Course on Travel Photography

The Philippine Center for Creative Imaging (PCCI), in cooperation with GDPHOTOWORKSHOP, invites you to a photo safari/travel photography workshop on one of the most popular destinations in Asia: Cambodia. To be conducted from September 7-11, 2007, this workshop is opened to all serious amateur and professional photographers who want to explore Cambodia’s Angkor Wat while learning the complexity of travel photography.

This four-day workshop will focus on Angkor Wat of Cambodia. While it will cover the place, its people and culture, the course will also be a learning experience from one of the best travel photographers—Gunther Deichmann. He will cover all aspects of shoot: solving technical problems, working with the locals, gaining access to certain places, the digital workflow, etc. He will also discuss what makes a successful travel photography. In addition, he will also lecture on post-production workflow and techniques using Apple Aperture. Aside being a well-respected travel photographer, he is also an Apple Certified Instructor in Aperture.

The workshop will be preceeded by a cocktail at PCCI, two weeks before departure, to brief the participants and to give them the opportunity to know one another.  The evenings of the workshop will be spent in sharing, critiquing of the day’s shoots and planning of the next. 

At the end of the course, each participant will receive a Certificate of Completion from both PCCI and GDPHOTOWORKSHOP and a copy of Gunther’s book, Journey Through Colour and Time. Their photos will also be exhibited in the Participant’s Gallery in the GDPHOTOWORKSHOP website. Exhibited photos will automatically be entered in the Cambodia Photo Contest to be displayed at the PCCI Gallery. Winning photos will win major prizes like free trip (including accommodation) to Cambodia for two. 

The total package price is US$1,650 (or peso equivalent) which includes airfare transportation from Manila-Siam Reap-Manila; 4 night-/5 day-accommodation at the 5-star Heritage Suites Hotel, breakfast, ground transportation and guides; Angkor Wat Heritage site permit fee and visa fee for Camboida; lectures at the Heritage Suite Hotel conference room; and a signed copy of Gunther Deichmann’s book Journey Through Colour and Time. For details, please visit www.gdphotoworkshop.com.
 
Gunther Deichmann is one of Austral-Asia’s most accomplished travel photographers. Of German birth and a paleontologist by vocation, Deichmann settled in Australia when we was 21 years old where he got exposed to the beauty of the country. This led him to his current preoccupation, photography. His photographic opus appeared in different magazines such as the cover of Time Magazine (USA), Bulletin (Australia), Der Spiegel (Germany), Bunte (cover), National Magazine (South Africa), National Geographic, New York Times (USA), Sued Deutsche Zeitung (Germany), Grand Reportage (France), VSD (France), GEO (France), Terre Savage (France), and Figaro (France), and  in other major book productions such as The Racing Game, National Geographic, Time-Life, Reader’s Digest, BBC (London). He recently published his own book entitled Journey Through Colour and Time— a 30-year collection of photographs on Austrialia, Europe, Asia, and Micronesia. For more information on this multi-talented and multi-awarded photographer, visit www.deichmann-photo.com.

Call now PCCI at 892528 or send us an email at mgm@pcci.com.pcci. Limited to only twelve participants.  

For those who have never been to Cambodia and for those who like to be part of my PhotoWorkshop in September I have produced a small

Podcast. Only 6MB this one was created entirely with Aperture, Keynote, Quick Time and using GarageBand for the sound.
Enjoy this small clip and get a glimpse of Angkor Wat, Siam Reap Cambodia.
You can download the high quality QT file below:

Podcast link

For more images on Cambodia please go to my web pages @ http://www.deichmann-photo.com

GD PhotoWorkshop @ http://www.gdphotoworkshop.com

Photos © Gunther Deichmann, Cambodia 2007

In support of the children in Cambodia I like to pass this message on, please read below the email I have just received,
a nice and warm story. Oh, yes I do love Cambodia, the people and culture, just an amazing place and only now I realized that my blog from some time ago had been picked up, it is truly amazing. click this link for details
G.D.

Dear Gunther Deichmann, this is a personalized message from Pin.
I googled and found your site with keyword "I Love Cambodia". We hope you find this interesting. Hope you can share this with your friends.


Mr. Klaus Moeller is a traveler who fell in love with our country. He has an interesting story which we would like to share with all of you.

Hello from Cambodia e-Visa,

A Touching Reunion After 8 Long Years
Klaus Moeller, Germany, 21 May 2007
I have traveled to Cambodia on two previous occasions. I went to Cambodia 8 years ago and fell in love with the country. Outside the temple of Angkor Thom was a little girl selling flutes. I took a photo of her and bought a flute.

When I came home, I looked at this photo for 5 years - always wondering why I did not help her more!

Well, a year ago - I went back to Cambodia with my daughter and 6 of her friends from school. I managed to have someone find the little girl. It was amazing to find her - it took us nearly a whole day!

And so we took the photo of her holding her old photo! It was wonderful - and this time we did take care of her and her family.

I have traveled to Cambodia on two previous occasions and was excited to try out your new e-visa service. I am absolutely amazed (pleasantly!) as how easy to use this service is. It took me all but 10 minutes, reduced costs by eliminating Courier charges and I had my visa ready to print the next morning! For the direct link please click here:

Gunther Deichmann covered Cambodia in his Book Journey Through Colour and Time extensively and six pages on the revival of the APSARA traditional Cambodian dances are dedicated to the APSARA Arts Foundation in Phnom Penh, for more info on Gunther's book please click the link below:
http://web.mac.com/gdeichmann/iWeb/Site/Welcome.html

or check out Gunther's website for more images on Cambodia at:
http://www.deichmann-photo.com

Hi, I just picked this up from my good friend Dermot, who joined me with my other good buddy Dirk to Cambodia recently.
Below are some images, Dirk almost joined the Monastry and Dermot was going to move for good into the Heritage Hotels bathtub ha, ha.


Savuth Lim my trusted Guide and friend for many
years with Dermot and Dirk in Siam Reap.

Dirk? Are you really joining the Monastry???
Well, no need to shave your head, that part is done.

Dirk Fahrenbach, G.D. and Dermot Keane
at Ankor Wat

Well, and this is the bathtub Dermot is talking
about it, at the Heritage Hotel.


Now here is the story from Dermot,

After ADEX – Side trip to Cambodia

I've been off the air for a while now due to some techical difficulties. I've got a bunch of items to post. Here goes!

Following the ADEX show, due to a change in airline schedules I had surprise chance to join my good friends Gunther Deichmann and Dirk Fahrenbach on their short trip to Siem Reap in Cambodia, home of the famous ancient temples including Angkor Wat. For a change, my travels had nothing to do with diving. I spent a few days following Dirk and Gunther around the incredible temples as they both worked their cameras hard. Check out some of Gunther’s images at: http://homepage.mac.com/gdeichmann/Cambodia%20April%202007/

The trip to Siem Reap and the temples was absolutely wonderful and is a place I plan to go back to later this year. I took the time to do a quick inspection of some of the hotel properties there and came across a really nice 27 room boutique hotel called Heritage Suites www.heritage.com.kh Exquisite rooms. Excellent service. Wonderful dining. Warm friendly staff, including General Manager Bernard Loyer with whom we had dinner at the hotel on two occasions along with some great wines. I plan to bring my wife with me on the next trip and I know she will love this hotel! I’m just not sure she’ll want to leave the giant free-standing bath tub in the hotel room to go tromping around ancient temples! We’ll find out. If you happen to be headed to Siem Reap definitely check out the Heritage Suites.

Our local guide was Savuth Lim who did a great job of watching the weather and the light and making sure Gunther and Dirk were in the right places at the right times for excellent photography. Even more amazing was how he wheeled us around the crowds (and they can be big) and or took us to the less visited temples which are equally as stunning as the most popular one. Savuth is also chief of the local Tourist Transport Association which provides all sorts of transportation from Tuk-Tuks to taxis, cars and vans. Savuth arranged a car and driver to be at our service all day and joined us himself as our personal guide when we headed to the temples. He’s been guiding for Gunther for quite a number of years whenever he visits Siem Reap and it really made the trip smooth and easy. If you’re looking for a great local guide, contact Savuth by e-mail to make advance arrangements or call him when you get to Siem Reap.
savuthlim@hotmail.com and savuthlim@yahoo.com Tel: 855 122 94387.

Dermot

Dear Friends,
I just love Cambodia, hence the reason for keep on going back, it is truly a Photographers dream, please join me soon for some exciting Photography workshops,
hands on travel photography including an introduction to Aperture the professional software for Photographers.




Please check the link below to view a selection
of images from this trip brought to you direct
from my Aperture Web Gallery,
click here for the images:

After going through tons of e-mails up on my return from Cambodia, I like to share some new images with you from my recent trip.
“Three days at Siam Reap”
This time around Dermot Keane from Sam's Tours Palau and Dirk Fahrenbach from Club Paradise and Dugong Dive Center, Palawan, Philippine, joined me, it was the very first time for Dermot and Dirk in Cambodia. They where totally overwhelmed and promised to came back again.

During the month of May there be some Aperture Seminars at the
Mac Center in Manila, Philippines, see the dates below:

APERTURE
Designed for professional photographers.
To find out more please click this link:
http://www.apple.com/aperture

For more information about Gunther Deichmann, click here.


In September 2007 I am conducting Photography Workshop in Cambodia including an introduction on Aperture, more detail information by June on the schedules and
the final itinerary.

This workshop will be held at the world heritage site of Angkor Wat, travel with me through the ancient Khmer civilization and experience Photography at this truly
amazing place.
A limited number of participants will be only accepted in this workshop, it is designed to give you a very personal and in depths understanding on travel
photography, and the arts and culture of Cambodia.
During my recent trip this month I have scouted for some Hotel accommodation and prepared some logistics for a series of up coming workshops to Cambodia, other
workshops to Bali - Indonesia will follow later.
However if you get the chance to visit Angkor Wat by yourself, check out the Heritage Suites Hotel talk to Bernard Loyer the GM and get spoiled at one of the best Hotels in Seam Reap, feel like some real good cake, then you have to check out the blue pumpkin.

These exclusive workshops are held in small groups of no more than 12 participants. Furthermore the Angkor Wat Photo Festival is approaching again in November 2007,
I am planning a very special trip for this event and set up one additional workshop on site during the Photo Festival in Angkor Wat, again more details and dates will follow shortly.

If you are interested please feel free to contact me for more details, in the meantime please subscribe to my blog for more exciting news soon, or visit my website at:
http://www.deichmann-photo.com

Enjoy the new images,
Cheers Gunther

Hi everybody,
please check the link below for more images, thanks.

http://web.mac.com/gdimages/iWeb/gdimages/CAMBODIA%20NOV%202006.html

The images have been taken after the Apple - Aperture Conference in Siam Reap Cambodia, Nov. 2006.
Of-course there are many more new images, this is only a portion of it and taken during a four day stay in Siam Reap.
It was great to meet all the other Aperture photographers during this short but very interesting Conference,
I made new friends and had a great time, thanks to Apple and Aperture.
Enjoy the images.

G.D.