AUG 31 is a significant month for every Malaysian. On this date this year, our beloved country celebrates 60 years of independence.
Malaysians from all walks of life show their spirit of patriotism by displaying the Jalur Gemilang.
For photography enthusiasts, this is also the best time to capture patriotic moments.
Here are some ideas on the memorable photographs to take other than just aiming at parades and fireworks.
1. RAISE THE FLAG:
As Merdeka approaches, you will see the national flag almost everywhere, even on vehicles. Get your camera ready. As seen in this photo, my powered paragliding friend is enjoying his patriotic moment with two flags attached to his wing.
2. SHOW PRIDE:
If you are travelling, make it a habit to bring along a Malaysian flag with you so that whenever you encounter beautiful landscapes, you will be ready to capture your own patriotic moment. In this photo, a friend shows his pride for the country by raising our flag. The flag glows proudly against the morning light at Mount Bromo in Indonesia. It’s a good way to show where you come from and how proud you are of being a Malaysian.
3. VISIT ICONIC PLACES:
August is the best time to visit and photograph Malaysian historical and iconic places like KLCC, KL Tower, the National Monument and government buildings in Putrajaya. These places are specially decorated during this month so it’s time to be creative. This photograph of the main government buildings in Putrajaya was taken during a Hari Wilayah 2017 event from a paramotor tandem ride.
4. MENTOR CHILDREN:
Give flags to children and witness their joy and enthusiasm while they run around with them. Children have honest and sincere expressions which are very nice to capture with your camera. They may not fully understand the meaning of Merdeka but their expressions of freedom while at play are priceless. In this photo, children from a nearby village in Lake Pedu, Kedah were practising their dance steps at the lake and they later posed with the flags.
5. ENCOURAGE UNITY:
A picture is worth a thousand words. Get together with friends and raise the Malaysian flag together. Shoot a picture that encourages unity. In this photo, my friends are in a jovial mood after a satisfying morning flight. The moment was captured using a super-wide lens at f/8 with a slow shutter facing the sun.