As we welcome a new year, it's also time for Focus Bulacan officers to renew or reconsider their commitment to leading the club. Just as it happens every January, we see some officers step down and pass the torch to a group of young blood. This year is no exception. Before we introduce our new officers, let us look back at the 2020 roster of club leaders.

2020 was a difficult year for everyone and we salute our officers for doing what they could to continue Focus activities throughout the year. As we open a new chapter in 2021, we would like to recognize outgoing officers, who for years have strived to help manage the group. THANK YOU for your time, generosity, and effort.

Here are Focus Bulacan's officers for this calendar year :

Our finance officer Juvy Santiago returns for another year of handling club funds and expenses. This is now her second year in the position.

We have a new officer in charge of overseeing the club's external affairs and communication. Welcome to the team and thank you, Sir Gilbert Macapagal.

We also have someone new to call the shots in our 2021 Competition. Jovit Caballero is now our Competition Officer after having previously served as Event Logistics Officer.

We had a reshuffling in the Membership Committee. Ralph Derrick "Chi" Lopez has moved from the Logistics Committee to head the Membership Committee. Mark Simon and Lee Baleva continue their stint as Membership Officers, while we have a new officer in Troy Benito who will represent Batch 2020 and onwards.

Focus 2018-19 Competition Officer Jing Calonge has crossed over and will now help oversee the club's event logistics along with Rachele Lacson, who is on her second year in the post.

Ry Jacinto will now head the PhotoMeet Logistics group, along with fellow senior officer Shauang Bote. To inject new ideas into our photomeet planning, we have incoming fresh officers in Omac Principio and John Denry Salazar.

Once again, we'd like to offer our thanks and salute to these officers who accepted the responsibility of leading Focus Bulacan into what promises to be a bounce back year.  All the best as we navigate 2021 together!

 

We're a camera club. We're a family. We're a team. We're a support group. We're a community. However you see and whatever you'd like to label us... welcome to Focus Bulacan, Batch 16!

• RILEY BUSTILLO
• CYRUS DOMIQUEL
• REYNALD MAGANA
• GLENN "JEHUTZ" SANTIAGO

Congratulations and we hope to see you continue your journey in photography. Let's shoot soon!

We've seen this kind of story before : someone gets hooked to photography, eventually gets a camera, improves skill and creativity, and subsequently makes it their profession. But making a leap of faith and going full-time into photography, traveling to faraway lands for free, and having a grand time on a cruise ship taking pictures? And how about witnessing the Northern Lights while at it? That's not quite common now, is it?

Hagonoy native Humprey Catajan started his affliction with photography while still in school and continued to feed his passion after graduating and landing a job in the business process outsourcing industry. He would designate his off days as shooting days when he would explore different places or techniques. After several years in his BPO work, he decided to go all-in on photography : he applied for a photographer position in an international cruise line (Royal Caribbean Cruises). It launched him to an experience of a lifetime, one that he would never forget (especially considering he amassed quite a number of photos to remind him).

"Kuya Humps" has many tales to share. This space is all his.

After all, he's the Focus photographer of the month.

Do you still remember the time that you got hooked to photography? Tell us how it all began.
H : Yes. Around 2009. I was in college. Way back then, I was only using a Sony Cybershot point-and-shoot camera but I was already a shutterbug.

We know you’re also into music and used to be in a band. How would you compare and differentiate music and photography?
H : Simple lang. They're both my artistic endeavors as a way to express myself. 'Yung music for my audio pleasure. And sa visual pleasure ko naman is 'yung photography. Basta it's like exploration of photography and music are set in relation to each other. Parang ganun. Haha.

You’re known to some people and you’ve also embraced the monicker “Kuya Humps”. Where did that come from?
H : It started during my college days. I entered college late na kasi eh, I think I was 21 or 22 years old na that time. So "kuya" na talaga ang tawag nila sakin. Hahaha.

You also love pets and consider pet photography as a special discipline. What is it about them that really tugs at your heart?
H : Special memories. Their lifespan is not as long as ours. And they're so cute, so why not? Haha. But seriously, pet lover na talaga ako since childhood.

How did your Focus Bulacan story start?
H : It started as an inspiration. Even though I was only using a point-and-shoot camera, malakas ang loob ko na dumayo pa sa isang lugar para lang mag-shoot. And palagi akong may nakikitang group ng mga photographers and they're wearing a Focus Bulacan shirt. Ayun sinearch ko na sa Facebook 'yung page nila and that led me to their website.

What’s your favorite Focus memory?
H : Siguro 'yung Christmas parties ng Focus lalo na kapag may "Jack en Poy" na game. Napaka-laughable niya talaga! Hahaha.

What’s your ultimate favorite photo, or the one you’re most proud of?
H : Of course 'yung nag-3rd Place ako sa PhotoWorld Cup 2018, "House of Worship" theme. Sobrang special niya sa akin because the human element doon sa composition ng photo is actually my Mom. The moment that I saw her praying in front of the altar, ayun na! Naramdaman ko na, sabi ko sa sarili ko, panglaban 'to. Hehe. (Photo shown above.)

You embarked on a cruise photographer career. How was it like?
H : It's different. It's a whole new level of experience. You have to be a well-rounded person. Hindi lang kasi puro click lang nang click ng camera ang gagawin mo doon. Anything na related sa photography, dapat alam mo talaga lahat.

What’s the most enjoyable part about being a cruise photographer? And what’s the part you like the least?
H : Ah syempre 'yung mapuntahan mo 'yung mga lugar na pinangarap mo mapuntahan tapos libre pa! Hahaha. The part I like the least siguro is nakakapagod talaga siya. Walang day-off kasi sa barko, hehe.

Of the places you’ve traveled to from your cruise photographer stint, what was your favorite?
H : Alaska. Nandoon na lahat eh! Cool weather, snow, beautiful landscapes, the wildlife, free wi-fi at syempre doon ko nakita si  Aurora. Photography haven talaga siya!

Tell us more about your Aurora Borealis experience.
H : Galing 'yung ship namin from Seward, Alaska, and were going towards south sa Ketchikan. It was around midnight nang nabalitaan namin na may northern lights nga daw. So as soon na matapos 'yung duty namin, nagmadali na talaga kami umakyat at pumunta sa aft ng ship, doon sa likod na bahagi ng barko. Actually lahat kami doon napapa-wow na lang sa ganda. It's like a dream talaga and everybody had smiles on their faces. Hindi na nga ako masyadong nag-take ng pictures. Nag-decide ako na i-enjoy na lang 'yung moment kasi baka 'yun na ang last time na makita ko siya. (Humprey's northern lights photo shown below.)

What’s your next plan?
H : Sa ngayon, I wish to continue 'yung mga nasimulan ko nang vlog sa Youtube about photography, music, and pets. So stay tuned! Haha.

How’s the Kuya Humps vlog, by the way?
H : In hiatus siya as of the moment. But hopefully next month, game na ulit! Hahaha.

If you could talk to your 2015 self, what words of wisdom would you give him?
H : Humps, doblehin mo pa ang sipag na lumabas para mag-shoot. Ang dami mong nami-miss na magagandang photo opportunity.

Anything in particular that you really plan to invest in improving on?
H : Time, money, and motivation lang talaga para makapunta sa mga lugar kung saan ko gusto mag-shoot. That's a straight answer! Haha.

What advice would you give someone who’s starting in photography?
H : Just maximize what you have. Sabi nga ni pareng Chase Jarvis, "The best camera is the one that's with you". So make the most out of it and learn as much as you can.

Message to Focus followers and fellow members.
H : Well thank you everyone for taking the time to read this and to my fellow members, kapit lang. Babalik din tayo sa normal. Thank you so much.

Photography has given him a new way of appreciating life. Seeing different parts of the world has broadened that perspective. If his Aurora Borealis moment is any indication, it's true that travel makes us speechless... then turns us into storytellers. "Kuya Humps" is all too happy to have his camera tell his stories.

This son of Hagonoy got smitten with photography after trying a friend's camera. It was, in his words, "love at first few clicks". He made the commitment shortly after and since then, he and photography have been inseparable. He's a professional shooter on weekends, covering events and doing corporate work, while responsibly sustaining his long tenure at the Bureau of Immigration on weekdays. He has also been a photography instructor for 8 years, instilling in his students (aptly known as RASters) the mantra "Read, Aim, Shoot".

Gilbert Macapagal, the Master RASter and the artist behind GSM Photographs, is our featured photographer of the month. Welcome to his story.

On his Focus application form, Gilbert wrote down that he aspires to "provide soul to every photo he takes" and "give new meaning to the ordinary." Judging from his photos and the passion that he has shown his students, clients, and colleague, we couldn't agree more.

Here's wishing he gets the Presidential gig someday and lends us his time for another interview when it happens.

Biking and running are in his blood but it was photography that showed him a spark and led him to a journey that has been through hills and valleys, victories and frustrations, and all the learning experiences in between. A long-time printing operator and current warehouse staff who also does freelance projects on the side, he got acquainted with the craft via a phone camera and gradually grasped his way to controlling the complicated DSLR. Barely three years since picking up the fundamentals, he is now a bona fide street shooter with a knack for nailing memorable and even contest-winning photos.

Alfie Grutas is our featured Focus photographer of the month and this is his story.

When did your photography affliction develop?
A : Sa mga magagandang photo na nakikita ko sa internet, gaya na lang nung isang sundalo na may hawak na rosary habang nakahalik, doon na ako nagkaroon ng interes sa photography. Nagsimula ako mag-asam magkaroon ng camera noong nakakita ako sa isang pelikula ng Leica yata 'yun o 'yung Fujifilm camera. Tumaas pa 'yung pananabik ko magkaroon ng camera nung lumabas pa noon 'yung DSLR at nauso nga. Kaso nalaman ko na may kamahalan kaya nagbaka-sakali na lang ako sa phone camera para masimulan ko na makapag-picture. Nakabili ako ng Android phone noong  summer 2015, doon na nagstart ang photography ko. Ang saya lang kasi kahit sa phone camera kaya palang ibigay 'yung pakiramdam na may sarili kang camera.

What were the usual challenges or frustrations when you were just beginning?
A : Kawalan ng gana mag-shoot kasi distracted ako sa paligid, nauuna 'yung takot kaysa sa mga gusto kong kuhanan.

How did your Focus Bulacan story start?
A : Noong nalaman ko na may pa-workshop sa photography ang St. James Parish sa Plaridel, na nabanggit nga ang Focus Bulacan sa post sa Facebook. Doon ko nalaman na may photography club pala dito satin. Kaya binisita ko ang page nila at nalaman ko na active ang grupo. Interesting 'yung bawat post nila. Tanda ko pa noon nabasa ko 'yung story ni Shauang, siya ang featured noon. Ang gaganda ng mga photo niya at kakaiba 'yung style niya so lalo akong na-excite para mag-sign up at unahin na lang 'yung workshop kaysa sa ibang lakad. Chance ko na rin malaman kung paano magamit 'yung DSLR, sakto kasi nabuo na 'yung binigay na Nikon D50 sakin ng aking tiyahin. Buhat noong nasimulan ko ang workshop mas binigyan ko na ng oras ang photography. Nadalas gamitin ang DSLR, nagsign-up para maging applicant, um-attend sa ibang workshop, nakisali sa photowalks, photomeet, national contest, worldwide photo contest. Hanggang sa sumapit 'yung araw na pinakilala na ako bilang isa sa mga new Focus Bulacan members.

What's the biggest photography lesson you've learned so far?
A : Akala ko makukuha ko na 'yung gusto ko na magagandang shots nung may mga nalalaman na ako. Hindi pala, ang lawak pala ng photography. Dapat matutunan ang bawat genre at unawain ito ng mabuti. Kailangan pagtiyagaan pa ang pag-aaral, maging masipag sa pag-shoot, pasensya sa sarili, higit sa lahat i-enjoy lang ito gaya na lang kung gaano ka kasaya at kasabik noong ikaw ay nagsisimula.

What has been the most unforgettable experience you've had as a photographer?
A : Hindi ko makakalimutan 'yung naging shoot ko sa Traslacion 2019. Nakapwesto kami ni Humprey (Catajan, a fellow Focus photographer) at isa pang photographer, sa sementadong sumusuporta sa malaking poste habang papalapit ang andas ng Itim na Nazareno. Isang deboto ang bigla na lang nakitungtong at nagpumilit kumapit sa poste. Tinigil ko na 'yung pag-shoot ko, inuna ko 'yung kaligtasan at gamit ko. Pumwesto rin kami sa barrier ng tulay, sobrang hirap mag-shoot nakaramdam pa ng takot kasi nasa harap lang namin ang crowd. May tendency kasi na pupwede kaming mahulog dahil sa mga deboto na nakikisingit sa aming pwesto.

What do you aspire to be five to ten years from now?
A : Siguro makuha ko na 'yung style ko sa photography, magamit, mai-apply 'yung nalalaman ko sa magiging negosyo ko pagdating nung time na 'yun. Sa ngayon explore lang muna, aralin 'yung mga gusto kong genre at 'yung mga bagong dumagdag.

What's your mindset like when you go out to shoot or create photos?
A : Sinisiguro ko na dala ko palagi ang  pananabik mag-shoot. Mga bagay na may interes sakin ang kinukuhanan ko. Tamang abang din misan kapag may nakita akong magandang spot.

Is there a photography-related experience that you wish you had done differently?
A : Siguro sana mas nagpursige at nagtyaga pa ako sa shoot ko na pang-entry sana sa contests.

What's the photo that you're most proud of?
A : 'Yung naging photo ko kay Mang Fred, isang magsasaka sa Pulilan. Nakasama kasi sa finalist sa photo contest ng Mandala Art Festival ng Pulilan at 'yun ang pangalawang beses nasama ang aking photo sa exhibit. (Photo shown below)

Do you have a photography bucket list? What have you checked so far, and what remains in the list?
A : Oo, marami eh. Nakapag-shoot na ako ng Milky Way kaso hindi maganda ang kinalabasan ng kuha. Pinilit ko lang kasi gamitin 'yung camera ko na di naman para sa ganoong shot. Masasayang kasi yung tinuro ni SJ (Sir Jer Sandel, fellow Focus photographer) kung hindi ko sinubukan. Kaya gusto ko ito ulit-ulitin. Pangarap ko makapag-photowalk sa Cuba at Morocco. Saka maka-attend din sa mga kakaibang festival dito sa Pinas pati na rin ang La Tomatina at bull run sa Spain. Syempre, makabili ng pinapangarap kong camera gaya nung napanuod ko dati sa pelikula.

What would be your advice if someone asks you what camera to buy?
A : Siguro aalamin ko muna kung para saan niya gagamitin at kung talagang hilig niya ang photography, saka ko siya balikan para mabigyan ng payo.

General tip to photography enthusiasts.
A : Tuloy lang tayo sa nadiskubre natin, shoot lang nang shoot. I-enjoy n'yo lang kung ano man ang gusto n'yong piktyuran. Mag-attend ng photography events. Lumapit at huwag matakot na magtanong, humingi ng tips at techniques sa mga photographer. Magpa-critique sa iyong mga kuha sa mga kaibigan mo, sa iyong mentor.  Magbasa, manuod ng tutorials sa Youtube. Sa ganoong paraan mauunawaan mo at mag-i-improve ang iyong mga kuha. At isa pa mag-join na rin kayo sa Focus Bulacan.

What's your message to Focus followers and fellow members?
A : Sa mga followers ng Focus, maraming salamat sa patuloy na pagsuporta sa aming grupo. Ipagpapatuloy pa rin namin ang pagbigay ng inspirasyon at magagandang larawan sa inyo, pagbigay ng tulong, kaalaman sa mga gustong matuto at pasukin ito. Yo! Kumusta, Focus fam? Maraming, maraming salamat sa mainit na pagtanggap n'yo sa akin noong ako ay nagsisimula pa lamang. Kay Sir Jeremy na unang nagbigay kaalaman para matutunan ko ang basics ng photography, kila Kuya Awel, Ate Elena, Shauang na mga nilapitan ko at nag-guide sa akin nung bago pa lang ako. Kila Humprey, Kuya Joel, Kuya Randy at Mark Simon na kusang nagbigay ng tips at techniques mula sa mga nalalaman nila. Maraming salamat po! Sana makabalik na sa dating normal at makapagkita-kita na tayong muli.

Like everyone, Alfie longs for the day when we overcome the pandemic and we could start living our normal routine. As he awaits to get back to his full-time warehouse job, he temporarily works as a computer technician. He misses the streets. He misses the festivals and events. He sure misses exploring the outdoors with his camera. But when the right moment comes, we can be sure that he's going all-out in taking photos again. After all, he has learned too well that in order to sustain the passion, one has to enjoy photography like how it used to be in the beginning. For all of us who knows Alfie, that means we're going to see  a fresh set of compelling photos, interesting slices of life that he has made a habit of capturing.

All we need is just a little more patience... and trust in the process.

We are happy to announce the newest group of approved applicants, hereby recognized as official Focus Bulacan members, Batch July 2020. They have satisfied membership requirements and displayed undeniable determination in improving their photography, particularly in this period of the pandemic.

Congratulations, Batch 15! May you continue to exhibit the passion and promise now that you have successfully navigated the application process. We look forward to many years of shooting and working with you. Welcome to the Focus fam!

• RICK CORREGIDOR
• JUSTINE DE LEON
• ROBERT DAMIEL FRANCISCO
• NICOLE JACINTO
• JOHN REDEHN LAT
• KIM CLAIBERN MENDOZA
• JHON SANTOS
• LEE KENZO VILLARALBO

We'll (hopefully) see you soon! Below is a visual introduction to our newest members :

We've all heard the life quote "If you really want something, you'll figure out a way to make it happen." That dose of motivation sums up Bryan Jacinto's creative journey that has culminated, so far, in photography. Fresh out of high school, he worked at a souvenir shirt printshop. There, he discovered and self-studied graphic design. His college years saw him dabble in music, poetry, and band life, while maximizing his student assistant role in their computer lab to learn Photoshop and multimedia. It was also that time when he first enjoyed shooting with a camera, as the designated shooter during school events. It was the spark of a passion that from then on became a goal. He now has his own shirt printing business and getting more seasoned as a lensman. It all started with a desire that turned into a plan which he keeps working hard to fulfill.

This is the story of Bryan "Ry" Jacinto, the featured Focus photographer of the month.

Photography is just one aspect of your life as a creative. How exactly did you start this path?
R : Actually, siguro mga ten years ago, alam ko na talaga sa sarili ko na gusto kong magkaroon ng camera. Pero siyempre 'di naman ganun kadali 'yun. Good thing, may mga kamag-anak akong may cam, so nakikihiram muna ako. Pero noon kasi click lang ako nang click, basta nag-blur 'yung background o sharp ang kuha, tuwang-tuwa na ako. Nakakatuwa at yung simpleng pagkagusto kong magkaroon ng sariling camera ang naging isang way para magsipag sa pagta-trabaho. 2016 noong nakabili ako ng sarili kong camera, three years kong inipon, mula noong nag-start akong mag-work. 'Di ko alam pero 'yun talaga 'yung unang gamit na pinundar ko. Haha.


What’s a memorable moment that first comes to mind regarding your “newbie” days?
R : Siguro 'yung akala ko na kapag nagkaroon na ako ng sariling camera, magagawa ko na din 'yung nagagawa ng iba. Isa rin kasi sa gusto ko agad magawang kuhanan ay ang Milky Way. Kaya pagkabili ko ng camera, nag-try agad akong mag-shoot. So ayun. Doon na ako nagsimulang mag-research ng mga bagay na tungkol sa photography. Dahil hindi basta naisip mo, makukuhanan mo kaagad. Hahaha! Akala ko magagawa ko na agad once na may sarili ka nang camera eh. Hindi pala basta pipindot lang ng daliri mo 'yung shutter button. Dapat pala padaanin muna sa mata, papunta sa utak, patungo sa daliring magki-click ng camera.

How did your Focus story start?
R : Isa ito sa pinakamalaking dahilan kung bakit nadagdagan ang kaalaman ko sa photography, pero bago 'yun, 'yung nagsabi at tumulong muna sa akin kung bakit ako nasa Focus Bulacan ngayon... si Sir Bobby Jo. Sa trabaho ko kasi dati, nataon na asawa niya 'yung supplier namin ng gamit, tapos member pala siya ng Focus. To make the story short, siya 'yung nagpakilala sakin sa Focus Bulacan. So after ma-approve 'yung application ko noon, siya din palagi 'yung nagsa-sign-up palagi sa akin tuwing may photomeet. Hindi ko malilimutan yun, maraming salamat sir! Pinasubok ako ni Sir Bob ng isang photowalk noon, bago ako mag-apply sa Focus, unang sali ko din ng photography contest. Ayun, nakatanggap agad ako ng "not for entry" comment. Haha. Ito 'yung nagpa-mulat sakin na hindi basta-basta ang photography. Kaya hindi ko muna pinasa 'yung membership application ko. Nagdagdag muna ako ng kaalaman tungkol sa photography, nagbasa-basa na ako at research noon. Haha. After ilang months, start ng 2018, may lakas ng loob na akong ipasa 'yung application ko. Sinabi ko sa sarili ko na mas matututo ako sa kanila (Focus members) kesa sa mga nababasa ko online. At masasabi ko naman na maganda 'yung naging panimula ko mula noong natanggap ako bilang applicant sa Focus. Sa mga nakakabasa nito, magi-improve ka talaga sa photography once na makasalamuha mo ang Focus Bulacan. Promise.

Right from the get-go, you established yourself as a winner and strong contender in Focus Bulacan’s competition. What do you think works for you in these contests, that others may learn from?
R : 'Wag kang mag-quit. Kung may bagay kang gustong gawin pero tingin mo hindi mo kaya o hindi mo magawa, 'wag mong susukuan. Sa halip ay pag-aralan mo habang nagpapahinga. Para pagbalik mo, may dala-dala ka nang bala, may panangga ka pa.


You’re an avid astrophotographer. Is there a specific photo in that field that you want to achieve?
R : Siguro 'yung Rigel na katabi 'yung With Head Nebula. Gusto kong ma-perfect at mapalabas 'yung cloud of dust and gas nung Witch Head Nebula. Isa kasi 'yung Rigel sa paborito kong star na tinitignan. Tapos 'yung Witch Head Nebula naman ay parang ako na naka-sideview. Haha. Ang dating kasi sa akin ay nakatingin 'yung head sa star. Tapos ireregalo ko sa magiging anak ko na may pangalan na Rigel, sasabihin ko sa kanya na ako 'yun na binabantayan sya. Ang basa nga pala dun sa star ay "Ry-Gel". Sa mga nakakakilala sakin, alam n'yo na kung bakit! Haha. (Ry's longtime girlfriend is named Angel.)

What’s your most favorite photo, or the one that you’re most proud of?
R : Pinaka-paborito kong photo ay 'yung shot ko para sa Focus Bulacan Exhibit last year. Sobrang daming meaning kasi nun para sakin. Isa na yung "don't let fear stop you." Base sa sariling karanasan. Hehe. Bukod pa doon sa exhibit, nakuha din pala 'yung photo na 'yun bilang Finalist sa Photo World Cup, "To Be Free" theme. Sobrang saya ko noon! (Photo is shown above.)


Are there still frustrations or areas you’d like to develop in your photography?
R : Yup, sobrang dami pa. Isa na 'yung pagiging mahiyain, lalo na sa paghawak ng camera sa madaming tao o sa kalsada kapag mag-isa lang ako. Haha. Kasi 'pag may gusto akong kuhanan pero may tao, natatakot akong lumapit. Hanggang sa hindi ko na makuhanan, kasi nahihiya ako. Narasanan ko na kasi 'yung photowalk na may nagalit sa akin habang kinukuhanan ko. Nakakahinayang kasi sayang yung pagkakataon.


What remains in your bucket list?
R : Pinakauna pero tingin ko hindi madali ay makabili at magkaroon ng pangarap kong William Optics na lens at maayos na star tracker para magamit sa hilig ko sa pagshoot ng deep-sky objects. Isa pa na hindi nawawala sa listahan ko, mag shoot ng live concert. Haha naalala ko, nanood kami ng girlfriend ko ng concert sa Malolos noong 2017, unang beses na makakapanood ako ng banda na live. Tapos natapat na ang nag-cover ay Focus Bulacan. Hindi pa ako member noon at hindi ko pa sila kilala noon, nakita ko lang sa suot nila 'yung Focus Bulacan. Sabi ko kay partner, balang araw makakasali ako sa kanila, tapos isasama kita sa harap para manood. Haha. May camera na kasi ako noon, tapos hindi ko magamit ng maayos, kasi siksikan. Siyempre ingat na ingat pa ako noon kasi bago pa lang yung cam ko. Hahaha!

Congratulations! You now have your own customized clothing line, Childish. Do you think there are distinct advantages of being a graphic artist when it translates to photography?
R : Sobrang laking tulong parehas! 'Pag may gusto akong shot, same lang sa pagle-layout ng design, nabubuo ko muna sa isip ko lahat, saka ko gagawin. Dagdag pa 'yung magkaroon ka ng taste sa kulay na maganda sa paningin. 'Yung photography sa graphic art business naman, 'yung advantage namin sa iba na ako na lang 'yung nag-shoot ng product namin. Pagkagawa ng product diretso shoot na agad, sabay post online. Nakakatulong din sa akin 'pag may gusto akong i-layout na bagong design. Since hindi naman ako gaanong magaling mag-drawing, ginagamit ko 'yung camera ko sa pag-shoot ng mga parts ng katawan ko haha! Example na ay 'yung sa kamay, kung 'yung dinesign ko ay gusto kong lagyan ng naka-OK na anggulo, kukunan ko 'yung kamay ko at 'yun ang gagawin kong basehan. Hahaha!

Could you share to us three photography quote or lessons that made a big impact on you?
R : Isa to sa palagi kong isinasa-isip : Na hindi ako magaling, sanay lang ako. Isa pa, be anonymous. Lalo na 'pag sa contest. Galing ito sa isang Greek philosopher at magaling na photographer na si Jeremiah Sandelous. 'Wag ma-excite sa pag-upload ng shots mo. Kung may tatlo kang magandang kuha, piliin mo 'yung pinakamaganda, at 'yun ang itabi mo. Tapos ang i-upload mo lang ay 'yung hindi mo napili. Doon mo ngayon ma-o-observe na kung nagustuhan nila 'yung in-upload mo na least na maganda sa tatlong kuha mo, paano pa kaya 'yung itinabi mong pinakamaganda. Laking tulong nito sa pag-improve, at baka magamit mo pa sa mga contest 'yung itinabi mong shot. Pero madalas di ko din nasusunod, sarap kayang magyabang ng magandang kuha, hahaha! Panghuli, "the best camera is the one you have with you." I-maximize mo kung ano 'yung meron ka ngayon, hindi porke mas maganda 'yung camera niya sa'yo ay mas maganda na rin 'yung kuha niya.

What’s the most unforgettable photography moment you’ve enjoyed thus far?
R : Sa ngayon ay 'yung daytrip to Aurora at overnight camping sa DRT. Haha. Bukod kasi sa mga photomeet ng Focus Bulacan, 'yang dalawa na 'yan ang pinakasulit sa akin. Dahil siguro wala kang iisiping contest na dapat ipanalo, haha! Enjoy-in lang 'yung lugar at kumuha ng magandang litrato. Lalo na 'yung sa camping sa DRT, pasok pa sa gusto kong genre na Astrophotography. Sana masabit ulit ako sa mga ganitong lakad.

How has it been like to be a Focus Bulacan officer?
R : Masaya... na mahirap. Haha! Masaya kasi updated ako sa mga ganap na mangyayari o gagawin natin sa Focus Bulacan. Mahirap kasi siguro natapat tayo ngayon na may pandemic, medyo malilimit talaga 'yung oras, kasi naka-focus tayo kung pano makakabawi sa sitwasyon ngayon. Pero kinakaya naman. Haha.

What tip or advice would you give to someone who’s planning to buy a camera and learn photography?
R : Hindi pula at dilaw ang tunay na magkalaban, ang kulay at tatak ay di siyang dahilan. Haha! Just kidding. Advice? Hmm kung nababasa mo 'to ngayon, at nandito ka sa Focus Bulacan site, may camera ka o nagbabalak kang bumili, ang masasabi ko ay... nasa tama kang landas. Nandito kami para sa'yo, para matulungan kang matuto tulad ng tinulong sa akin ng mga kasamahan ko ngayon dito sa Focus Bulacan. Kaya tara na!

In your own words, how do you define photography?
R : Para sakin, ang photography ay isang malaking part na ng buhay ko. Kung ang tao ay may five basic senses, ang photography ang nagbigay sakin ng pang-anim. Ang sense of happiness.

Message to Focus followers and fellow members.
R: Para sa mga kasamahan ko sa Focus Bulacan, maraming salamat sa inyo! Maaaring hindi ko alam ngayon 'yung nalalaman ko tungkol sa photography kung hindi dahil sa inyo. Ipagpatuloy lang natin 'to, magsuportahan, magmahalan. Given na hindi naman tayo pare-pareho ng ugali, manatili sa atin ang pag-uunawaan, para sa ikatatatag ng ikalawang pamilyang ito, ang Focus Bulacan. Para sa mga taga-suporta naman ng Focus, maraming salamat din sa inyo, isa kayo sa dahilan kung bakit patuloy pa din kaming nandito at nagbibigay ng kaalaman sa photography. Kung nagbabalak kang sumali, at katulad kita noon na natatakot na baka mahirapan kang makisabay sa mga member ng Focus.. alisin mo na 'yan sa isip mo. Dahil nandito kami para tulungan kang madagdagan ang kaalaman mo sa larangan ng photography. Magtulungan tayo. Maraming salamat sainyong lahat. Keep safe and God bless.

Photography could mean many things for different people. For Ry, photography has given him the opportunity to go far and reach for the stars : making a living by doing what he's good at, and shooting the depths of the galaxies to capture celestial wonders. Specifically, in his case, the most important marvel of them all : Rigel.

Gentlemanly and always calculated in his moves, he may be considered a late bloomer in his long-held passion. His is a classic story : a curious aficionado of photography who goes all-in when he finally gets a camera of his own. From that point on, he has never looked back... except on one photo, taken at a time when he was still learning the intricacies of the craft. A Civil Engineer who hails from Malolos and works for the country's biggest expressway concessionaire, he quickly rose through the ranks in Focus Bulacan, exhibiting teamwork and leadership qualities, aside from a commitment to service. More than enough reasons for him to be designated as officer just a year into his membership.

A creative mind with a keen eye for details and a dedication to get better. Jovit Caballero is our featured Focus photographer of the month.

How did your affinity for photography start?
J : My photography journey started last December 2016 when I finally got to afford an entry level camera with a kit lens.. which is still the only camera I have now, with just an addition of a few lenses. Back then, as a new and young professional, taking photos had occupied most of my spare time outside work. And during those  times that I remember my high school days when I used to dream of having my own phone with a camera. Yes, it was a big deal back in 2008. I would always borrow my classmates’ phones and take random photos around the school premises. This made me realize that my passion in photography did not just pop out of nowhere, it has always been within me.

You’re an engineer by profession. Does photography serve as an outlet for you? And do engineering and photography have something in common?
J : Civil Engineering can be physically and mentally draining, so yes, photography is one of my outlets during stressful times. I am currently assigned as a Contracts Engineer which focuses on even the smallest details of a project. This is the same with photography where details are important, different elements will tell you a different story.

What were your usual frustrations when you were starting out in photography?
J : Like most beginners, I would say that my limited resources are my usual frustrations. I always thought that to become a good photographer, one has to own the best equipment, have plenty of budget, and a lot of spare time. But I’ve proven myself wrong. The most expensive equipment may not necessarily be the best, and those who have less, will always know how to make the most out of it. I think we just need to have that drive to pursue what we want, and surround ourselves with creative and supportive people.

You took quicker than usual to be appointed an officer of Focus Bulacan. How did you handle the load and pressure at such an early stage in your membership?
J : First of all, I would like to thank the officers for trusting me that early. At first, I was quite worried because I am concurrently leading a photography club in my company, Expressions Photography Club. But because I’ve always wanted to do something for the people I share the same passion with, I accepted the challenge. It was really difficult to find time for the meetings and activities, but we always find a way. Photomeets and club events are very complicated, but they always end successfully. I think the officers have the same set of goals, that’s why the heavy weight of the load and pressure has become something that can be shared by each and every one of us. It has always been hard but definitely fulfilling.

What’s the most difficult aspect of being a Focus officer? What’s the most fulfilling?
J : The most difficult part of being an officer would be the consolidation or finalization of a group consensus. An organization this big is accompanied by a meticulous decision-making process. While the most fulfilling part will definitely be the end results, of course. Not only the good photos, but also the good memories.

To date, what has been your proudest moment as a photographer?
J : I would always be proud of the recognitions that Expressions, the Photoworld Cup, and Focus Bulacan have given me. In fact, I have them displayed in my room to remind me where I started. But nothing will beat the compliments and the support that I am receiving from my family and different circle of friends. Every day with those people who believe in me will be my proudest, they are my living trophies.

Care to share us the most unforgettable lesson you’ve learned in photography?
J : I think the most unforgettable and valuable lesson that I’ve learned in photography, which I think is also applicable with our daily lives, is that you cannot please everyone. Photography is an art and a way to express yourself. We can’t avoid comments that we don’t want and expect to hear, but always be wise enough to choose and filter those criticisms which can help you be better at your craft.

If you could pick just one photo among your favorites, which one is the most meaningful to you, and why?
J : I think the most memorable one is the "Flower Girl", taken at the St. James Church in Plaridel, because up to now I can still remember the comments that I received on my photo. In 2017, Focus photographers Jer Sandel and Gerson Domingo conducted a 3-day workshop in celebration of the municipality’s town fiesta. It was the first ever Focus Bulacan activity I’ve attended, and a segment wherein we can shoot around the vicinity is conducted and then the photos will be criticized by the speakers. It might not be the most technical, but it brings me back to that moment. And for that, I consider it meaningful. (Photo is included in image gallery below, the first in the group.)

How would you describe your style in shooting and presenting your photos?
J : Honestly, I can’t specifically describe my style but I would say it’s more of “clean and colourful” conceptual photos. I do try a bit of every genre, but I usually enjoy conceptual and portrait photography more than anything else.

What remains in your photography bucket list? What would be your dream destination or project to shoot?
J : I have always been fascinated by landscape photography. I want to learn a lot about this genre, and maybe own my complete set of landscape portfolio from around the Philippines. My dream photography destination is definitely Batanes. I’ve been there once, but my time was just occupied by my amazement of the majestic sceneries. I definitely enjoyed my stay there, and as promised, I will be back to capture what I’ve witnessed.

What photography advice would you give yourself five years ago?
J : So that was 2015, maybe “Buy a camera now and join Focus Bulacan as early as possible! You’ll learn and experience a lot, for sure!”

In your own words, what is photography?
J : As I would always say, photography for me is a means of transporting myself to an imaginary and creative world where it seems that I’m not bothered and don’t care about anything at all.


Tip you’d like to give those who are starting out in photography, how they could become better faster.
J : We all know that every learning process takes time. In fact, I’ll still put myself on the beginner’s bracket, maybe just a few steps ahead. There are a lot to learn, so surround yourself with the best mentors that you can meet. Keep your fire burning, but be careful not to get burned. Put in extra time and effort from conceptualization up to execution, because that little extra can be the difference between failure and success.

Your message for fellow Focus members, then message for Focus followers.
J : To my fellow Focus members, thank you for the first 2 years full of learnings and experiences! Amidst these trying times I see a lot of great photos in your posts from different social media platforms. I am also happy that our first-ever virtual photomeet has been successful, and our group is as active as ever. Let us all participate and contribute to all other succeeding activities of the group so we can continue to bring honor not just to our club but to the province as well. Ingat mga ka-Focus! To our followers, thank you for the usual support that you guys are giving us! To those who plan to join the club, there is no more room for hesitations, I’ve been there before and I assure you that the only thing you’ll regret is that you didn’t join earlier.  You are all most welcome! Keep safe everyone.

Let's not lose sight of the fact that Jovit also won the "Newcomer Of The Year" award in Focus Bulacan's 2018 competition, and the "Rookie Of The Year" distinction in the national PhotoWorld Cup competition of the same year. All these while navigating through professional and social life, and discovering a niche in his creative pursuit.

He has come a long way, indeed... yet he has only just begun.

 
In between the innumerable compelling images he has produced is a solid list of accolades : representing Fotomasino and finishing as runner-up in the Junior PhotoWorld Cup, endorser and reviewer of various photography brands, facilitator of Creative Vision Clinic workshops, content writer for Fstoppers, and current ambassador for Asus and Meco Filters. All these while successfully pursuing a medical career : he's a full-fledged doctor. 

His credentials are extensive, but if you ask most of the people who have crossed paths with him, they'll likely tell the moments when he gave a helping hand. Whether it was about photography, health problems, personal matters, or social issues and advocacy, "Doc" has always been willing to listen and do his best to help. His impact is not just about the wonderful photos he captured or the expertise he has gained and shared through the years, but also about how the photography industry is more collaborative because of his support and initiatives.

Recently, due to the COVID-19 pandemic that has adversely affected everyone including the photography community, he organized a series of online photography-related tutorials for anyone who wants to learn amidst the community quarantine. A month and over 3,000 group members later, "Workshops From Home" has provided valuable lessons and invaluable inspiration and stress relief for viewers...  exactly the reason why he started the campaign.

We're proud to feature Dr. Nicco Valenzuela as Focus photographer of the month.

Photographs remain a universal language and one of the most effective ways to communicate. May the stories they tell lead us to better understanding of other people and of life in general.  It is in this light that we can affirm that photography is a powerful tool for social change. Photographers wield influence and have the ability to impact the world. Nicco is prime example that in good hands and with sincere intentions, that power could translate into positive gains and help those in need.

It is especially in these times that we need to support each other and, even when apart, heal together. In our own ways, we could contribute to making the situation more manageable.  One day at a time. One step at a time. One victory at a time. Toward a collective effort that would make us better humans.

Just what the good doctor prescribed.

She's considered as Focus Bulacan's "Iron Lady" due to her undaunted commitment to uphold club rules and also as tribute to her long-standing service and support as officer. A native of Malolos, she was working as a powerplant construction and electrical design engineer when she was assigned to Japan to coordinate her company's projects. It was there that she realized the need to document life's moments with a camera.

Now employed in an Australian mining company as an electrical and instrumentation designer, photography has somewhat taken a backseat while she also juggles duties as wife and mother. Despite her hectic lifestyle she continues to fulfill her role as a Focus leader, a responsibility that she has skillfully managed all these years.

Ma. Katrina "Katcen" Centeno-Verzano is our featured Focus photographer of the month.

Priorities in life may change but when one is committed to a cause, there's always a way to contribute. Katcen is prime example of how we could make our presence felt even in absence... like how she remains a guiding light for Focus Bulacan in spite of being fully-engaged with her family and career.