My first visit to Fort Santiago (FPPF's 18th Anniversary)

Going inside FPPF's turf

I just got here in the office after attending FPPF-Canon Photowalk at Fort Santiago early this morning. I got this notice from a friend of mine in facebook where he posted it on our facebook page. I was apprehensive at first but after convincing myself, why not. The fact that it was the only place in Intramuros that I haven't been before plus it's only 15 minutes away from our place gave me enough reason to lose a few hours of sleep.

 

I got there at around 7:15am and began setting-up my camera as well as familiarizing myself with the place. I was just by my lonesome as most photographers who came there represent their respective camera clubs affiliated by PFFP (Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation Inc). I didn't matter much as I was able to focus on taking some pictures from there that I haven't took before.

Getting started

The road to Fort Santiago

Almost there

By 8:00am, we have started taking pictures within Intramuros. For me, I had to focus on Fort Santiago as this would be the only chance I'll be getting. I don't know when will I be able to shoot there again but all I have to do is take as much opportunity as I can. When Canon announced their free camera (body and lens) cleaning, I had to stop for a while and go to Canon's booth. They told me to go to this room to register. Good thing when I got there, I was the fourth in line as the third camera was being cleaned.

When it was my turn, one of the technicians told me that my camera got a fungus which they were able to clean. Could this be the sign I need to save-up for a second camera body XD? Anyway, I continued shooting once my camera and lens were cleaned.

As I went inside Fort Bonifacio itself, I felt like a stepped into a time machine. To my delight, I enjoyed the place before composing on what to shoot. I got inside at least two museums that showcase the rich history of Dr. Jose Rizal. I got sidetracked as I took some pictures of them as it would be probably my last. Then, I got to another room full of Jose Rizal's artifacts (furniture, paintings etc.) and didn't waste a second on taking their photograph.

I forgot that I should have submitted my entry by 10:00am but anyway, I took my time and take more pictures while going back to the activity area. There were food and drinks to participants of the event (there was a fee of 250 which covers the entrance fee, food and an event shirt) and I made sure to grab some to nourish me. Within a few more minutes, most photographers trooped to the parked Miata Cars as models gamely posed for them. I took some shots along with the crowd before reporting for work.

I hope I could go back next time and make sure I get more than enough sleep so I could cover all that I need. 

Happy 18th Anniversary FPPF!!! Here are some more pictures to share. ^_^