Photographer's Profile:

Mr. Ricardo L. Punzalan is an Instructor of archival studies courses at the Institute of Library and Information Science, University of the Philippines Diliman. He is also the Museum Archivist of the U.P. Vargas Museum. His active membership in his professional association, the Society of Filipino Archivists and his participation in various conferences and seminar-workshops has brought him to several places around the country. In his trips, no matter how hectic the schedule maybe, he makes sure that he spends a day or two just to tour and familiarize himself with the place. His favorite and constant companion on all these trips is his camera.

Do you remember what exactly that inspired you to get into photography?

Just the fact that a photo is an excellent documentation medium that reminds you how beautiful or memorable a place or an event is.

When did you first pick up a camera and start exploring the medium? Please describe some of your earliest photographs?

I'm not a professional photographer, nor even took photography lessons. I remember in high school, when we would go on field trips, I'd bring a camera and just take pictures.

What type of camera do you use to take most of your pictures? How important is the role of the equipment used in capturing a beautiful image?

Honestly, I don't own a camera! I just borrow from friends. Regardless of the model, a camera is an excellent documentation device.

What are some of your favorite subjects? Why?

I normally don't take photos of myself or of other people, I love taking pictures of nature and old structures such as churches and buildings.

How do you capture a moment without altering it with your presence?

I think it is impossible to capture any moment without altering it in any way. I think I can only minimize my presence by making few self-adjustments (i.e., not being obtrusive, etc.) and let everything flow as they should be.

What are some of your memorable photos? Please describe to us why it is memorable to you.

It would be my photos of the Mt. Pinatubo crater. I had to trek for 6 hours just to see it!

What defines a good photograph?

A good photograph should capture an image in its most natural (not manipulated) and truest form.

What advice do you have for people who don't have an eye for photography?

People normally appreciate a photo that relates to them. Take photos of the things, places or people that you wouldn't want to forget for the rest of your life. If you are looking at another person's photograph, it helps to know the story behind that photo - what compelled him/her to take it, what kind of camera was used, etc.

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