Three Merlion Moments Using One Lens For Your Private Tour
RICKY GUI . 4 TO 6 MINUTES READING TIME . UPDATED 19 OCT 2025
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, Capture Asia Photography Private Tour is born just for you.
Whether you’re a beginner or an amateur photographer, our private, one-on-one on-location photo 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.
What are the available tours in Singapore?
Customized Private Photography Tour (Day / Night / Both)
Explore your way with a personalized photography tour designed around your interests and schedule. Choose from 6, 8, or 10-hour sessions, and decide whether you’d like to shoot during the day, at night, or both.
Simply mention your preferred duration and start time in your email. We’ll discuss your photography goals, plan your route, and confirm the appointment before booking.
This experience is highly recommended for travelers who want to cover more ground, capture stunning visuals, and learn valuable photography coaching along the way.
📷 Tour Rates:
6 hours — $650
8 hours — $865
10 hours — $1080
Little India to Kampong Glam Private Photography Tour
📍 Meeting point: Little India MRT station, exit C
🕒 Duration: 3.5 hours
A.M. session: 09:00–12:30 hrs
P.M. session: 17:00–20:30 hrs (Late afternoon to night)
💰 Price: SGD $380
👉 Book your Singapore Photography Tour
Marina Bay Private Photography Tour
📍 Meeting point: Bayfront MRT station, beside 7-Eleven
🕒 Duration: 3.5 hours
A.M. session: 09:00–12:30 hrs
P.M. session: 17:00–20:30 hrs (Late afternoon to night)
💰 Price: SGD $380
👉 Book your Singapore Photography Tour
Chinatown Private Photography Tour
📍 Meeting point: Outram Park MRT, exit 4
🕒 Duration: 3.5 hours
A.M. session: 09:00–12:30 hrs
P.M. session: 17:00–20:30 hrs (Late afternoon to night)
💰 Price: SGD $380
👉 Click here to book your Singapore Photography Tour
Quarry Hiking & Exploration Private Photography Tour (Day)
📍 Meeting point: Hillview MRT, after gantry
🕒 Duration: 3.5 hours
💰 Price: SGD $380
👉 Please email for booking.
*All tours do not include transportation and food.
