Tell us about the day you took your winning photo.
It was taken during our vacation last May to Sibuyan Island Romblon, in the Philippines. I was there with my family. I took the picture during sunset while I was on a passenger jeepney [a type of bus] with them. We were driving down the dusty road of Azagra.
What made you realise this was a special moment worth capturing on camera?
When I saw the beautiful colour of the sky and the fading sunlight on the backdrop of a dusty road, along with the coastline gently blending into a far-off mountain range and the tricycle behind it all, I did not hesitate to grab my Sony Nex-5N. I set the camera and extended my right hand out of the window and then shot the moment. It was special and really can’t be repeated.
Which categories at the awards did this photo win?
The photo won first place in the Sony A-77 Travel category and first place in the Sony A-99 Philippine national award.
How long have you been taking photos for?
I’ve been taking photos since I moved to the city of Abu Dhabi three years ago. I was encouraged by a friend to attend several workshops to start off.
Is this your full-time job?
No. I worked in Dubai as a helicopter mechanic in 2007 and 2008, and moved to Abu Dhabi in 2009. I do the same job here for Global Aerospace Logistics. Before that, I was a sergeant in the Philippines Air Force between 1998 and 2007.
Where do you like to take photos in Abu Dhabi?
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Corniche, Emirates Palace and a part of the Meena port.
What tips would give aspiring photographers?
Keep on shooting and get lots of practise. Make sure you know your camera’s settings and attend workshops. Finally, don’t be in a hurry to become famous. Let fame find you!
Head to www.worldphoto.org for more on the competition.
