MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines indeed can provide the world with amazing things as the newest Department of Tourism (DOT) slogan: “It’s More Fun in the Philippines”, and recently, a Filipino travel photographer named George Tapan captured the coveted top place in the
2011 photography contest of National Geographic on December 15, 2011.
As posted on its website, Tapan was judged the winner in the Places category with his ‘Into the Zone’ entry.
Tapan's entry was taken in Onuk Island, Balabac in the south of Palawan, Philippines. The island is 3 hours away from Puerto Princesa and is near the Jewelmer Farms in Palawan.
A rainbow after a rainstorm, a man on his fishing boat and a woman strolling along the coast line teamed-up for a perfect composition which drew praises from the judges. The photo was taken the shore of Onuk Island.
Judge Tim Laman complimented the photo saying, “It showed a perfect sense of timing and composition in the way he captured the two small human subjects in this beautiful scene, and that really made the shot.”
Another judge, Amy Toensing reviewed the photo positively as, “Very moody, beautifully composed.”
National Geographic summed up the image by saying: “Small things can sometimes make a big difference.”
Tapan received a $2,500 cash prize for winning the contest. His photo will also be printed in National Geographic magazine.
