A day of shooting in Georgetown/Penang
Nestled on the northwest coast of Malaysia, the captivating city of Georgetown, the capital of Penang, is a melting pot of diverse influences, blending colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and a delectable fusion of cuisines. While I was in Kuala Lumpur, I wanted a break from city life and went to Georgetown for a few days. But of course, me being me, I had to hit the streets to see what I could come up with.
1. Leica Q3, 1/100 - f/11 - ISO800
2. Leica Q3, 1/320 - f/11 - ISO800
Georgetown's history is woven with threads from various epochs, creating a rich and diverse cultural landscape. Founded in 1786 by Captain Francis Light of the British East India Company, Georgetown played a pivotal role in British colonial expansion in Southeast Asia. The city's historical significance is evident in its well-preserved colonial architecture.
3. Leica Q3, 1/200 - f/11 - ISO800
One of Georgetown's most captivating aspects is its cultural diversity, a harmonious blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences. The city's UNESCO World Heritage status, awarded in 2008, recognizes its unique architectural and cultural heritage.
Georgetown has gained international acclaim for its vibrant street art scene, transforming the city into an open-air gallery. The streets are full of murals and installations that narrate tales of the city's history and culture. The famous "Children on a Bicycle" and "Little Children on a Bicycle" murals by Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic have become iconic symbols of Georgetown's artistic charm. But we all know that I didn’t come here to do the touristy bits.
4. Leica Q3, 1/10 - f/16 - ISO100
I was shown around by two local photographers. In the morning I went on a stroll with Thinnesh (https://www.instagram.com/thinnesh.jpg/) and we did explore some of the markets and streets in the historical part of Georgetown. It wasn’t all that busy but nonetheless it was great seeing some of the cool sights.
In the afternoon I was joined by Sean (https://www.instagram.com/thisseanchai/) which was great fun and we got really lucky with an event, that was taking place in one the parks. It was an opening ceremony for the upcoming Chinese new year festivities. A lot of people gathered there and a leading politician of Penang came to help pulling up a huge lantern. Besides that, a local dancing school showed a performance which was nice to capture. Besides us, there were many other photographers and of course the local press was covering the event as well.
But before the event we went to a few jetties which were very interesting to photograph. Two hours before sunset, you’ll find a good amount of people going there to have their photos taken or just to hang out until the sun has set. For candid photography this was great and if you come into town, it is a place I would recommend giving a try.
5. Leica Q3, 1/500 - f/16 - ISO800
6. Leica Q3, 1/500 - f/16 - ISO800
7. Leica Q3, 1/8 - f/16 - ISO100
8. Leica Q3, 1/50 - f/16 - ISO100
9. Leica Q3, 1/50 - f/11 - ISO800
Of course, I used the Leica Q3 for all of the shots and except for a few photos all were shot using flash. During the event in the evening I ran out of batteries but luckily a nearby convenient store got me covered and I was able to pick up some AA.
10. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
11. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
12. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
13. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
14. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
15. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
16. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
17. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
18. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
19. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
20. Leica Q3, 1/15 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
21. Leica Q3, 1/8 - f/8.0 - ISO1600
Would I recommend Georgetown for street photography? If you want to relax for a few days and also want to shoot on the side, then I think Penang can be a good place to shoot street. People are very friendly and with a little bit of luck, you should be able to come up with some great shots.
