Siem Reap Photography
Life, light, temples, and people
Siem Reap Photographer
Siem Reap has been my home for over 11 years and whenever I can I like to take walks, camera in hand with an eye open for the kind of light that catches my eye. You never know what you might see, and the most magical moments happen unexpectedly.
Early morning light has always been a favorite time for me to shoot – it’s not just the light – it’s the energy that’s around at the beginning of the day. Vendors are on their way to the markets with bikes full of product, the golden morning light is streaming through the trees, most people are still not out – it’s the version of Siem Reap I most enjoy photographing.
Siem Reap Street Photography
Mornings in Siem Reap are when the city feels most alive. While many visitors are still asleep or already heading out to Angkor Wat, the streets begin to fill with market vendors, motorbikes stacked with produce, and the soft light that makes this part of the day ideal for street photography.
Markets open early, deliveries arrive by scooter, and people move through the town as part of their daily routines. Photographing these moments offers a different view of Siem Reap, one rooted in observation of daily life of locals and the town rather than tourism and offers a different perspective to the Angkor temples.
Do people mind being photographed in Siem Reap?
I’ve travelled to places where people actively avoid the camera, turning away or covering their face the moment they notice you. Siem Reap isn’t like that. In my experience, if you’re friendly and respectful, most people are more than happy to be photographed, a smile and a bit of warmth go a long way.
That said, respect still matters, especially around monks. If someone doesn’t want their photo taken, that’s their choice and it should be respected without question.
The Angkor Temples
The Angkor temples are a big part of my life in Siem Reap, and I’m lucky enough to experience them through all seasons. Angkor is a place of relaxation and history, away from Siem Reap town, it’s a sanctuary of nature and natural history.
I spend a lot of time at Angkor Wat itself, but also at Ta Prohm with its tree roots grown through the stone, the many faces of Bayon, and the quieter corners of Banteay Kdei. Each temple has its own character and its own best time of day to shoot.
Like all photography, it’s about the light. A temple with soft golden morning light at 7am with no people around is transformed with harsh mid day light and the arrival of crowds.
Angkor Temples Gallery
Looking for more information about the Angkor temples? See my Angkor Guide for everything you need to know about photography in Angkor.
See my Angkor Wat Photography Tips guide
If you would like me to create a customised photography tour for you when you visit Siem Reap, see my Angkor Wat Photography Tours
See my Angkor photoshoot packages