About Me
Introduction
Hey there, I’m Melvin. A nature and travel photographer, web developer, and digital creator based in the Philippines. I’ve been working as a web developer since 2008, blending technical expertise with creative storytelling.
Photography first captured my curiosity between 2016 and 2018, and in 2026 I reignited that passion, turning it into a serious pursuit alongside my digital work.
Beyond the lens and the keyboard, I’m a deeply introverted, geeky soul who thrives on research and learning new things. I’m fueled by good coffee and fresh bread, and I unwind with movies, anime, and immersive RPG adventure games.
The Journey into Photography
I was already deep into my career as a web developer when photography first sparked my curiosity. My days were spent staring at screens, sifting through lines of code, and solving problems that often felt repetitive. Eventually, I craved something different—a reason to step outside and explore.
That opportunity came when I joined a “chase crew” of a hot air balloon festival. Armed only with my smartphone, I began capturing fleeting moments, and that simple act ignited a passion for photography.
In 2016, I took things further by investing in a second-hand Canon 70D. With that DSLR, I started documenting events and memories more intentionally. As my skills grew, I upgraded to a full-frame Canon 6D and began collaborating with my bud, Earvin of PixelBoomCreative, covering events and refining my craft. What started as a hobby quickly evolved into a creative pursuit that continues to shape how I see and share the world.
The shift of Interest
I’ve tried many genres of photography: events, street, and even sports, but it was nature and landscapes that truly captured my heart. I love the colors of nature. Capturing raw, unscripted beauty and dramatic scenery turns outdoor exploration a mindful and rewarding challenge. For me, being outdoors with a camera isn’t just about creating images; it’s a form of therapy, a way to reconnect with peace and clarity.
Over time, this passion has grown into more than just a hobby, it has become a calling. Nature and travel photography challenges me to slow down, to wait for the perfect light, and to see familiar places with fresh eyes. Each photograph is not only a record of a scene but also a reflection of how I felt in that moment: grounded, inspired, and deeply connected to nature. My goal is to share that sense of wonder with others, inviting them to pause and appreciate the world’s quiet beauty.
Stepping Away
In the latter half of 2018, I made the difficult decision to quit photography and sell my gear. At that time, photography was only a hobby, and I wasn’t earning enough from it to justify the expense. When financial challenges arose, sacrificing my equipment felt necessary, even though it was painful to let go of something I loved.
Still, my passion never truly disappeared. Even without a dedicated camera, I kept training my eye, searching for compositions, noticing patterns, and capturing moments during our travels and adventures with whatever tools I had. That period reminded me that photography isn’t just about the gear; it’s about vision, perspective, and the joy of seeing the world through a creative lens.
The Comeback
October of 2025, I was placed on “floating status” for six months—a temporary layoff that left me with plenty of time to reflect. I stumbled upon an old external drive tucked away in a drawer, filled with my photography archives. Revisiting those images reignited something I thought I had lost: the urge to create, to capture, to see the world through a lens again.
With that spark, I made a bold decision. I used my final pay to invest in new photography equipment, choosing to return to the craft not just as a pastime but as a commitment. This time, it wasn’t about hobby or escape—it was about reclaiming my passion and building a future around it. Starting fresh, going strong and all in with photography.
Contact
I would love to connect with you!
Prints – Looking for a print from the gallery that’s not in the shop? Send us your inquiry and we’ll help you bring it home.
Work With Me – Want to collaborate on photography or web projects? Share your ideas and let’s explore possibilities together.
General Inquiry – Just saying hi or curious about photography? Drop us a note—we’re always happy to chat.
