Young boys captured studying between the morning prayers and breakfast at Chorten Ningpo Monastery in Punakha, Bhutan. In an effort to alleviate their families' burdens, impoverished boys willingly enter monastic life. These monasteries provide essential provisions and foster spiritual growth, securing their future. Typically, children in Bhutan enter the monastery around the ages of six to eight, sacrificing a conventional childhood for a life of unwavering devotion and hope - Chorten Ningpo Monastery, Punakha, Bhutan.
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I witnessed morning prayers at Chorten Ningpo Monastery in Bhutan. Lasting an hour, the monks chanted mantras and performed rituals in the prayer hall. This routine purifies their minds, creating a meditation-friendly environment. Chanting and rituals seek blessings from the Buddha and enlightened beings, aiding their spiritual journey. The morning light bathed the hall, providing an enchanting glow for captivating photographs. Light and shadow played together, adding depth to the mystical ambiance - Chorten Ningpo Monastery, Punakha, Bhutan
While driving from Wangdue Phodrang to Chorten Ningpo Monastery in Punakha, we traversed expansive rural landscapes. Along the journey, we reached a hill where we noticed shepherds tending to a group of jaks below the road. Intrigued by this pastoral scene, we parked the car and ventured downhill to interact with the farmers and capture moments through our cameras – Punakha, Bhutan
Gangtey Goempa monastery, situated in the scenic Gangtey Valley of Bhutan, is a prominent Buddhist monastery of immense religious and cultural significance. Perched atop a hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. The monastery serves as a hub for Buddhist learning and practice, attracting both local devotees and curious visitors in search of spiritual enlightenment and serenity within its sacred walls. Early one morning, we had the privilege of observing the monks as they commenced their day with morning prayers, diligently engaging in their daily activities of prayer, study, and household tasks - Gangtey Valley, Wangdue Phodrang, Bhutan
As we journeyed through Central Bhutan, we were amazed by the breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and historical significance of the region. For a couple of days, we chose to stay at the Phobjikha Valley, a charming area that reminded us of certain parts of Switzerland. The valley is famous as the winter abode of black-necked cranes, which migrate from Tibet every October.The Gangtey Goempa monastery, dating back to the 16th century, is undoubtedly the historical highlight of the district. One morning, we visited the monastery and hiked back from the mountain down to the valley. Towards the end of our hike, we stumbled upon an incredible view that encapsulated the region's essence. The mountains in the background, the little pond with prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, and the temple created an idyllic scene that was unforgettable - Phobjikha Valley, Central Bhutan, Bhutan
A Bhutanese farmhouse nearby Gangtey. Farmhouses are typically two to three stories high and are constructed using traditional building materials such as rammed earth, stone, and wood. The lower floor of the house is often used to house livestock and store farm equipment, while the upper floors serve as living quarters for the family. Bhutanese farmhouses are often decorated with intricate wood carvings and paintings that reflect the family's cultural and religious beliefs. In recent years, the Bhutanese government has placed a strong emphasis on preserving traditional architecture in the country. As a result, many new farmhouses are constructed using traditional techniques and materials, and there are strict regulations in place to ensure that modern developments do not detract from the country's unique architectural heritage – Gangtey, Phobjikha Valley, Central Bhutan
This photograph captures the awe-inspiring Trongsa Dzong, standing proudly amidst the breathtaking landscape of the Tang Valley in Bhutan. From afar, the massive fortress emerges, showcasing its grandeur and architectural splendor. Nestled on a hilltop, the Trongsa Dzong overlooks the valley, offering a commanding view of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. The Trongsa Dzong holds immense historical significance as the ancestral home of Bhutan's royal family. Its strategic location played a vital role in the country's history, serving as a stronghold and administrative center – Tang Valley, Bumthang, Valley.
I had the opportunity to take portraits of Bhutanese people dressed in their traditional attire at the mesmerizing Ogyen Choling Palace Museum in Bhutan's scenic Tang Valley. The Palace, the people, and their costumes transported me to a bygone era, reminiscent of the flourishing aristocracy in 17th to 19th-century Bhutan. Each portrait captured the vibrant cultural tapestry woven through intricately crafted garments, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage that defines this captivating region - Ogyen Choling Palace Museum, Tang Valley, Bhutan.
After having explored the Barcelona’s Gothic District I ended up at Port Vell. During daytime and the evening Port Vell is a bustling waterfront area it is one of the city's most popular and vibrant destinations. Port Vell is situated at the southern end of La Rambla. Early in the morning the only people you’re seeing are people working out. Although I’ve explored the area ten and ten’s of times the light was so compelling that I could resist of taking a couple of shots. I hope you enjoy them as much as the fun I had making them – Port Vell, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
After having explored the Barcelona’s Gothic District I ended up at Port Vell. During daytime and the evening Port Vell is a bustling waterfront area it is one of the city's most popular and vibrant destinations. Port Vell is situated at the southern end of La Rambla. Early in the morning the only people you’re seeing are people working out. Although I’ve explored the area ten and ten’s of times the light was so compelling that I could resist of taking a couple of shots. I hope you enjoy them as much as the fun I had making them – Port Vell, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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WELCOME TO MY PHOTOGRAPHY BLOG AND PORTFOLIO. MY GOAL IS TO DOCUMENT THE WORLD AROUND ME, FROM THE SMALL DETAILS OF EVERYDAY LIFE TO THE GRAND LANDSCAPES THAT TAKE OUR BREATH AWAY. WHETHER I'M AT HOME OR TRAVELING TO NEW PLACES, I AM ALWAYS ON THE LOOKOUT FOR NEW AND INTERESTING SUBJECTS TO PHOTOGRAPH. MY PHOTOGRAPHS ARE A VISUAL DIARY OF MY EXPERIENCES AND A WAY TO SHARE THE WORLD AS I SEE IT WITH OTHERS. I HOPE YOU ENJOY EXPLORING MY COLLECTION AND DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THE WORLD THROUGH MY LENS.
About me:
Before: Healthcare Exec. Based in Brussels; Heidelberg; Los Altos Hills, CA; The Hague, Geneva, Nijmegen, Groningen
Now: Non-Executive Director in the Healthcare Industry based in Ghent. A travel buff with a passion for photography, photography books, Leica, wine and Asian food. Last but not least: proud grandfather of William, Nicholas and Mateo. |