Little India Private Tour in Singapore
RICKY GUI . 4 TO 5 MINUTES READING TIME
Little India is one of Singapore’s most colorful districts, full of vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors that make it an irresistible place to wander with a camera. From busy roadside scenes to hidden corners inside arcades, every turn reveals something new. On my private photography tour, I encourage guests to slow down, observe, and capture these authentic moments. Here are a few encounters I had while exploring the area — each one a small story that reminded me why street photography is so rewarding.
The moving elevators
While waiting at the traffic light, I caught an unexpected little scene — the elevators on a nearby building were moving at the same time. One was gliding upward while the other began its descent, and I quickly raised my camera to frame it. It was only a matter of seconds, but I managed to capture the moment within just a few shots.
What makes this even more unique is that these lifts are among the rare ones in Singapore where you can actually see the exterior doors and cables from the outside. Each cabin even has nearly 2-meter tall panel of translucent glass, giving a glimpse out as they travel up and down. It’s such a small detail, yet fascinating — the kind of everyday urban scene that most tourists would simply walk past, and even locals might not notice.
For me, it’s moments like these that make street photography so rewarding.
Travel tip: Look up, look around, and notice the overlooked details of city life. Architecture and infrastructure can be just as photogenic as temples or street art.
f/6.7, 1/1250 sec, ISO 1600, Overcast weather
Humor in the composition
I noticed two pigeons wandering around a shop in an arcade, strutting in like they owned the place. At first, I scratched my head — why would pigeons casually walk into a store? My first guess was the air-conditioning, since I’ve seen birds sneak into cool spaces before. But after chatting with one of the patrons, I learned the truth: the shop owner actually feeds them. For the pigeons, this spot has become both a food source and a cozy shelter, and they seemed totally unfazed by the humans around them.
What made the scene even funnier was my composition — right beside an advertisement of an Indian girl smiling as she’s about to bite into a cake. There she was, ready for dessert, while the pigeons stood nearby waiting for their next meal to be tossed their way. A perfectly timed, humorous juxtaposition.
For me, moments like this are what make street photography so rewarding. It’s not just about chasing big landmarks or perfect light — sometimes the most memorable shots come from simply slowing down and noticing the humor in everyday life.
Travel tip: Don’t be afraid to play with humor in your photography. Juxtaposition, timing, and observation can turn ordinary scenes into unforgettable travel stories.
f/5, 1/125 sec, ISO 1600, Indoor
The positive man
I was wandering around the arcade when I came across a shop selling mouthwatering desserts and snacks. I couldn’t decide which one to buy. Behind the counter was an Indian man, smiling so happily that it caught my attention. Curious, I asked him, “Why are you so happy?” He replied, “Everyday smile is good.” Fair enough — I couldn’t argue with that. A basic way to keep a person sane.
Then, out of the blue, he asked if I could take his portrait. Of course, I agreed — I love capturing environmental portraits in my line of work. I took a few steps back, framed him carefully, and clicked two quick shots. What a great affection smile he had!
In the end, I bought something too — I asked him what their best-selling item was, and decided to give it a try. Definitely I am going back for sweet stuff.
Travel tip: When locals are kind enough to pose, take a few extra moments to chat. Those conversations often lead to genuine portraits and sometimes even insider tips on what to eat or see.
f/5, 1/200 sec, ISO 1600, Indoor with fluorescent light
Market scene with decorations
By wandering slowly, this scene caught my eyes with all the beautiful hanging decoration on the side and the top. The lady was holding a blue basket to contain her items and the people in the background are holding plastic bag who already made their purchase. Early bird gets the fattest worm, and also beat the crowd.
Travel tip: If you want authentic photos of local markets, go early in the morning. The lighting is softer, the vendors are friendlier, and you’ll capture the daily rhythm before the crowds arrive.
f/4, 1/500 sec, ISO 1600, Overcast weather
Warning signs
The number of warning signs against bad social behavior in this area is unbelievable — no spitting, no urinating, no smoking, no bicycles allowed… the list goes on. Can you imagine how messy and dirty it would get without them? From a photographer’s point of view, these signs actually tell an interesting story about the area: how the management manages public spaces and daily behavior. It’s not just about rules, but about keeping the environment pleasant for everyone.
Travel tip: Don’t just walk past the signs. Stop a while to look at them. They can be quirky subjects to photograph, and they also give you a glimpse into the local culture of how order is maintained in a busy city like Singapore.
f/5, 1/250 sec, ISO 1600, Indoor setting
Brotherhood at the roadside
I noticed the two men standing closely together at the busy roadside for a good full minute. From where I was, it took me a while to figure out what they were doing, so I quickly snapped a few shots — and then a few more. Soon, I realized the man on the left was helping his friend peel off the plastic on his mobile phone. It felt like a brotherly moment, simple yet meaningful. Helping each other when both are far from home. I need to say that our foreign workers are the unsung heroes of Singapore!
Travel tip: Don’t just look for grand scenes — observe the small gestures between people. Sometimes it’s those quiet, human connections that make for the most powerful travel photographs.
f/8, 1/640 sec, ISO 1600, Overcast weather
Closing – Why Join My Little India Photography Tour
Little India is more than just temples and markets — it’s a place where everyday stories unfold in the most unexpected corners. On my private photography tour, Little India-Kampong Glam. I guide you not only to popular spots but also to hidden gems that most visitors walk past without knowing. These moments — a smile from a shopkeeper, pigeons strutting like locals, or elevators moving in sync — all become part of your personal travel story, not forgetting slow down and observe.
As a professional photographer with 20 years of experience in architecture, interiors, industrial, and events, I also share practical tips that will elevate your own images. For example, in overcast weather or low-light indoor conditions, I shot many of these scenes at ISO1600 to balance sharpness and clarity. My trusted 70–200mm lens allowed me to isolate details, compress perspectives, and bring out textures that would otherwise go unnoticed. These are techniques I teach during the tour, whether you’re shooting with a DSLR or mirrorless.
If you’re looking for a truly customized photography experience in Singapore, my tours are flexible — you choose the pace, the subjects, and even combine different neighborhoods like Chinatown, Kampong Glam, or Marina Bay. Each walk is tailored to your interest, whether that’s cultural storytelling, architectural details, or street photography. Kindly email.
So the next time you visit Singapore, don’t just see Little India — photograph it like a local, guided by someone who knows how to spot the unseen and free from navigation.
Click on Private Tour to learn more.
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