Three Merlion Moments Using One Lens For Your Private Tour
6-8 MINUTES READING TIME · UPDATED 4 April 2026
Strolling around the Merlion Park, taking in the mood and surround vibrant atmopshere, and most importantly being relaxed. A relaxed mind can be more creative than a busy mind. As you can see, the three shots were captured from a similar direction, yet the scene, mood, and lighting are vastly different. These three Merlion images were captured over different times and period, using only a single lens: the 70–200mm.
The Merlion is the official mascot of Singapore. Visited by tourists from all over the world.
The same Merlion
Over the years I have witnessed many happy tourists taking pictures in this famous landmark— the same Merlion is there, it can’t move to somewhere, but, the surroundings are always changing, the weather can be sunny and next moment is cloudy, the energy are always different depending the time you visit, each person have their own creative way to leave with a memory.
That’s what keeps me coming back: each visit brings a new scene, a different mood and weather, and another chance to witness this landmark in a fresh perspective. One of the joy of photography lies in the freedom to create pictures— whether you’re reacting to a scene or working from a pre-visualized idea.
Same angle, different composition
If you’ve ever stood at a popular photography spot and wondered how to make your shot stand out — this is for you.
Take a look at the three images I’ve collaged together. Each photo was taken from roughly the same angle, yet every frame tells a different story through light, mood, and composition.
The top-left image was captured under a grey, overcast sky. The quiet atmosphere and absence of crowds made it an ideal moment to shoot — perfect for travelers who prefer calm over chaos. Sometimes, cloudy weather can actually enhance a scene by softening shadows and adding a subtle cinematic tone.
The top-right image shows a completely different story. A sea of tourists fills the Jubilee Bridge all the way to the Merlion Park, bringing a sense of scale and energy to the shot. It’s a great reminder that crowds, when composed thoughtfully, can become part of the narrative — showing the destination’s popularity and vibrancy.
For the bottom image, I decided to take another approach — using the bushes in the foreground as a natural frame. This simple technique adds depth, layers, and context, helping the viewer’s eyes travel through the scene. It’s a subtle yet powerful way to make your composition more dynamic and engaging.
All three photos were taken with my Canon 70–200mm lens, one of my go-to choices for city photography in Singapore. A long lens lets you compress perspective, isolate subjects, and find new angles from a distance — perfect for capturing architecture, people, and fleeting moments without intruding.
Travel Photography Tip
If you own a telephoto lens, bring it. Pair it with a wide-angle lens to cover both sweeping cityscapes and intimate street details. The key isn’t about owning the most gear — it’s about using what you have creatively.
How about a Private Photography Tour in Singapore
I’ve created a new service — a photography-focused travel experience designed for curious-minded travelers and photographers. It’s more than just a tour; it’s about slowing down, seeing differently, and capturing moments with intention. Hence, Singapore Photo Tour is born just for you.
Whether you’re a beginner or an amateur photographer, our private, one-on-one on-locationphoto tours in Singapore are guided by a working commercial/documentary photographer. This is not a group tour with a rushed itinerary — it’s a creative journey built around you. From iconic landmarks like Marina Bay to vibrant neighbourhoods like Chinatown, Little India and Kampong Gelam, we help you slow down, see differently, and photograph meaningfully.
Perfect for solo travelers, couples, or even creatives looking for inspiration. No fancy camera required — we welcome smartphones too. It’s about the Art of Seeing, not just the gear. Expect hands-on tips, real-time feedback, hidden photo spots, and even a well-composed self-portrait at each landmark — using your own device.
What you received when booking with us? 100% private and personalised, led by a pro photographer, hidden vantage points, creative coaching, photo reviews and more.
I’ve just started this new service, and I’d love all the support I can get from the community.
Come join me on a tour — I’m pretty sure you’ll learn a thing or two, maybe even start seeing the world a little differently before hitting the shutter.
It’s relaxed, fun, and a great way to explore. Give it a shot — you won’t regret it!
What gears should you bring?
I prefer my participant to stay light on my travels for the photography tours — it’s a liberating process. Many times during my photowalk, I don’t need them to bring a camera bag full of gear. I always have just one lens mounted on my camera and a curious eye is enough to get it going. More importantly I have the local knowledge which is a big plus. Depending on your shooting style, bring a lens that you are comfortable with. If you need two lenses, I suggest you bring a wide angle and a telephoto lens, this set-up is more than enough coverage in Singapore.
Bring along extra memory cards — you can always buy more here if needed, but spare batteries are an absolute must. Especially if you’re the type who shoots using the LCD screen instead of looking through viewfinder, your camera battery will drain much faster than you expect.
Available Private Photography Tours in Singapore
I offer both customized private photography tours and focused 3.5-hour private photography tours in Singapore, depending on your schedule, preferred pace, and the kind of photography experience you want.
Whether you are looking for a shorter guided session or a longer custom route that extends from day into night, each tour is designed to give you a more thoughtful and rewarding way to photograph Singapore.
Customized Private Photography Tour
Day / Night / Combined
For travellers who want more flexibility, longer shooting time, and a more personalized route, customized private photography tours are available in 6-hour, 8-hour, and 10-hour formats.
These longer sessions are suitable for those who want to cover more ground, explore different parts of Singapore, and enjoy a more in-depth photography experience with guidance throughout the tour.
You may choose a daytime session, a night session, or a day-to-night experience depending on your interests and availability.
To arrange a customized tour, simply mention your preferred duration and start time by Instagram or email. We can then discuss your photography goals, plan a suitable route, and confirm the session for booking.
Rates
6 hours — SGD $650
8 hours — SGD $865
10 hours — SGD $1080
3.5-Hour Private Photo Tour
The standard 3.5-hour private photography tour is designed for visitors who want a focused photography session with professional guidance in a shorter time window.
Standard session timings
Morning: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Late afternoon to night: 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Marina Bay Private Photography Tour
A city-focused route suited for photographers who want skyline views, strong urban structure, and a more polished Singapore cityscape experience.
Meeting point: Bayfront MRT Station, beside 7-Eleven
Duration: 3.5 hours
Price: SGD $380
Booking: Book your Singapore Photography Tour
Chinatown Private Photography Tour
A route suited for photographers interested in street character, layered city scenes, and a mix of old and modern elements within the urban environment.
Meeting point: Outram Park MRT Station, Exit 4
Duration: 3.5 hours
Price: SGD $380
Booking: Book your Singapore Photography Tour
Little India to Kampong Glam Private Photography Tour
A route that moves through vibrant streets, layered urban details, and a mix of architectural and cultural character.
Meeting point: Little India MRT Station, Exit C
Duration: 3.5 hours
Price: SGD $380
Booking: Book your Singapore Photography Tour
Quarry Hiking & Exploration Private Photography Tour
Day Session Only
A more nature-led experience for those who enjoy walking, exploration, and photographing a quieter side of Singapore.
Meeting point: Hillview MRT Station, after the gantry
Duration: 3.5 hours
Price: SGD $380
Booking: DM for booking
Important Information
Transportation and food are not included in any tour.
