A day before the nation celebrated Jose Rizal’s birthday, a different kind of revolution unfolded in Luneta Park. Forget Katipuneros and the revolution; this was a revolution of the shutter, a digital uprising orchestrated by the Department of Tourism – National Capital Region (DOT-NCR). The unlikely revolutionaries? The seasoned park photographers of Rizal Park, their faces etched with years of sun and flash.
These aren’t your average Instagram influencers. These are the masters of the perfectly posed family portrait, the guardians of the classic Rizal Park backdrop. For decades, they’ve captured countless memories, mostly relying on manual-mode in digital cameras—a testament to their analog hearts in a digital world. Their images: straightforward, classic portraits, Rizal Park’s lush greenery forming a picturesque frame. Think less artsy, more “say cheese!”
But on this momentous eve, these photographic stalwarts were about to experience a digital baptism. Enter George Tapan, a National Geographic 2011 award-winner whose “Into the Green Zone” triumphed over 20,000 entries from 130 countries – a first for the Philippines in that prestigious competition. This wasn’t some run-of-the-mill photography workshop; this was a masterclass led by a true photographic titan.
Rizal Park itself, a sprawling green heart in the concrete jungle of Manila, boasts a rich history. Once a parade ground, it later became a symbol of national identity, a place where Filipinos gather, remember, and celebrate. Its history is as layered and diverse as the people who populate it, and the park photographers are an integral part of that vibrant tapestry.
One hundred park photographers attended the DOT-NCR workshop. Tapan, armed with his decades of expertise, didn’t just teach technical skills; he imparted a philosophy. He showed them the power of their digital tools, the magic of instant exposure adjustments. But the real game-changer? He taught them how to inject joy into the photographic experience. He emphasized that happy clients are repeat clients. A fun photoshoot becomes the best marketing strategy, ensuring a steady stream of tourists – both local and international – seeking an authentic Filipino experience within Luneta’s embrace.
The impact? Transformative. The workshop wasn’t just about improving their photography; it was about empowering them, uplifting their livelihood, and ensuring the continuation of a beloved Filipino tradition. These weren’t just pictures they were taking; they were crafting memories, preserving moments, and contributing to the unique character of Rizal Park. The legacy of Jose Rizal himself was thus subtly extended, not just through historical remembrance, but through the renewed energy and skills of the photographers who keep his park alive. The DOT-NCR’s initiative was a stroke of genius—a perfect blend of honoring the past while digitally empowering the present. It certainly made Rizal’s birthday a memorable one, not just for the nation, but for the photographers who call Luneta Park their workplace and canvas.
