My plan was to spend the “island time” part of my trip in the islands of Southern Thailand. However, I had met some people along my journey that spoke of these islands off the southern coast of Cambodia. I believe the word magical was used to describe it. I was already in love with everywhere else I had been in Cambodia. Therefore I ended up choosing Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia to be my island home for the next week or so. Here are four quick travel photography tips for finding unique shots.
1 – Relax
If you’ve ever been to an island, you are aware things tend to move at a slower pace. Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia is no different. Take time to just sit in a chair and take in the daily routines of the locals. By slowing down, you’ll be more open to recognizing scenes to photograph unfolding before you.
For more picture-worthy spots in Cambodia, go to my article Top Photography Locations in Cambodia.
2 – Swim with bioluminescent plankton
Like seeing energy waves flowing from your body, swimming with Koh Rong Samloem’s bioluminescent plankton is an otherworldly experience. Unfortunately I don’t have an underwater camera, so there’s no pictures here. However the beach in the image below is where you’ll find the bioluminescent plankton.
Are you going to Siem Reap to see the world’s largest religious structure at Angkor Wat? Read my article Tips for Photographing Angkor Wat and Siem Reap | Cambodia Travel Photography.
3 – Go uphill
You can find so many different perspectives and vibes in Koh Rong Samloem, Cambodia just by walking around a little bit. For instance, by venturing to the top of a hill where the locals live, I was greeted with this view in the image below. The man in frame beat me to the view. Haha!
For more on travel photos, read my article Travel Photography Tips and Planning.
4 – Get up early
Every morning I woke up before sunrise so I could wander around the village and photograph different scenes. The locals are quite active at dawn, getting the shops and restaurants ready for tourists. Or they are just out and about living life, like the two boys below enjoying the morning sun.
If you would like to see some of my adventures in Thailand, read my article Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand.