Sydney Harbour night view for Water H2O Thursday

 

The Aster Bar, perched atop the 32nd floor of the Sydney Intercontinental, proved to be a splendid setting for an evening of quiet repose. Though Joel withdrew from the trip, claiming Sydney had grown tiresome to him, I found contentment in solitude, relishing the panoramic view all to myself.

Regrettably, the long exposure photograph did not come out as I had hoped; I ought to have set the exposure time beyond two minutes, rather than the mere thirty seconds I employed. Moreover, the balcony's corner—where I had positioned myself—was frequently besieged by other patrons seeking the same vantage, some attempting to displace me outright. Still, despite the challenges, I did manage to capture at least one photograph of the moment.

Aster is an exclusive rooftop bar located on the 32nd floor of the InterContinental Sydney, offering a refined drinking and dining experience. Guests can indulge in creative cocktails, artfully plated small dishes, and personalized service while enjoying expansive 270-degree views of Sydney Harbour, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. The bar's interior combines contemporary elegance with a breezy outdoor terrace, providing a sophisticated atmosphere for patrons. Aster is open to the public, with reservations recommended due to limited space

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Melbourne South Bank at night for Treasure Tuesday

 

It has been several years since my last visit to South Bank. I was pleased to discover a newly erected Ferris wheel, accompanied by a series of luminous installations that greatly appeal to photography enthusiasts. Of particular note is the splendid illumination of the surrounding architecture, which lends the precinct an enchanting ambiance after dusk and offers ample opportunity for artistic expression.

South Bank, situated along the southern banks of the Yarra River in Melbourne, is one of the city’s most vibrant cultural and recreational precincts. Once an industrial area, it has undergone a remarkable transformation into a bustling hub of art, dining, and entertainment. The promenade is lined with world-class restaurants, lively cafés, and luxury hotels, drawing both locals and visitors who seek to experience Melbourne’s cosmopolitan charm. Notably, the Arts Centre Melbourne and the National Gallery of Victoria, both iconic institutions, contribute to the area’s reputation as a cultural heart of the city.

In recent years, South Bank has seen the addition of new attractions, further enhancing its appeal. A striking Ferris wheel now graces the skyline, offering panoramic views of Melbourne and the Yarra River. At night, the precinct comes alive with a symphony of light—installations and architectural lighting casting a glow upon the buildings and walkways, creating a picturesque setting ideal for evening strolls and photographic pursuits. The thoughtful illumination of structures such as the Eureka Tower and surrounding facades adds an elegant brilliance to the cityscape, reflecting beautifully on the river’s surface.

South Bank is more than a destination; it is an experience that seamlessly blends the arts, leisure, and modern urban design. Its well-maintained promenades, proximity to the Central Business District, and integration of natural and man-made beauty make it a cornerstone of Melbourne’s identity. Whether one visits to enjoy a theatrical performance, dine by the river, or capture the interplay of light and architecture through a camera lens, South Bank offers a timeless and ever-evolving canvas that embodies the spirit of Melbourne.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Brisbane Night Ferris Wheel Long Exposure for Sunday Best

 

To undertake the task of long exposure photography amidst the throngs of Brisbane’s bustling South Bank is to court both patience and fortune. The city, vibrant and unceasing in its rhythm, seldom affords the stillness such a technique demands. Yet there, among the restless footsteps and the murmur of daily life, stands a quiet marvel — the Wheel of Brisbane — solemn, grand, and ever-turning.

Erected in 2008 to commemorate the sesquicentennial of Queensland, the Ferris wheel is no mere amusement; it is a modern monument, a gentle giant by the river’s edge, offering sweeping views and enduring symbolism. It revolves steadily, indifferent to the ceaseless passage of pedestrians below, many of whom scarcely glance upward. It is, in its way, a keeper of time — not by ticking hands, but by its own slow revolution.

To photograph such a subject using long exposure is to attempt an act of reverence. The camera, when held in stillness with the shutter drawn open, does not simply record an image — it collects time itself. Light weaves its threads across the frame, motion becomes memory, and all that is unmoving grows luminous and sharp.

Yet therein lies the challenge: the constancy of human movement. Strangers wander unbidden into the composition, their forms becoming translucent echoes — smudges of presence that both enrich and disrupt the clarity of the scene. The Wheel, by contrast, remains serene — turning, yes, but in such a measured fashion that it may appear suspended in time if one is patient and precise.

There is, in this pursuit, a certain poetry. As I adjusted my lens and steadied my breath, I began to perceive the act not merely as photography, but as a conversation between permanence and transience. The Ferris wheel — emblem of modern celebration, built upon a foundation of history — stood as the anchor. Around it, the city’s people flowed like a living river.

And in one fortunate moment — a moment gifted more by grace than by skill — the exposure yielded a quiet revelation. The wheel shone, sharp and majestic, while the crowd had melted into gentle motion, like ghosts in passing. Time, for an instant, had folded, and Brisbane had revealed its dual nature: ever-changing, yet ever the same.

Such is the beauty of capturing the ephemeral. The camera does not merely steal a moment — it elevates it. And in the luminous whirl of Brisbane’s Ferris wheel, we glimpse not only the present, but the echo of what has been and the promise of what may come.

Sony A7RV

Laowa 9mm f5.6

Linking Sunday Best

Fengjia night market Signs for Sign2

 

Clams bake and grill Sign

This sort of game is popular in Asia

Calamari roast 

Strolling through a night vendor market is not particularly conducive to weight loss. However, I take great pleasure in wandering through such places, camera in hand, with my wide-angle lens capturing the lively atmosphere. To avoid the incessant nuisance of scam calls, I make use of a different SIM card while abroad.

Despite my travels overseas, Joel remains in regular contact with me via Signal. He appears rather enthusiastic about the prospect of starting his own podcast, though I sincerely hope he does not. His intensely private nature is well-founded, and only a true friend could engage with his perspectives without passing judgment.

Street photography serves as a sport for me, and as such, my frames often include various signs encountered along the way. 

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Sign2

I am currently enjoying the third season of The White Lotus and have reached the fourth episode. Additionally, I am planning an overnight trip to Shifen, a region renowned for its picturesque waterfall and vibrant night market. However, as my mobile plan is limited to only one gigabyte of data per month, I must rely on public Wi-Fi to access the blog.

Melbourne Night at Birrarung Marr

 

Just too many people in the city. After that long gig 2 nights ago, I am binge watching Lord of the Rings on Netflix instead. Such a tragic story to watch. 

Sony A7RV

FE 35mm f1.4 GM

Diamond Bay Staircase for Sky watch Friday

 

This was taken when I started out learning taking Milkyway photo 

Sony A7RIV

FE 16-35mm f2.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

Bolte Bridge Night for Sky Watch Friday

 

A classic location for boring Friday Night

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f2.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

Sea lake Mallee for Sunday Best

 

Just arrived home from Albany WA

So tired. Constant rescheduling of flights and cancellations. 

Sony A7RV

FE 16-35mm f2.8 GM

Linking Sunday Best

Mungo National Park Desert sky for Skywatch Friday

 

The shot was taken using a Voigtlander 12mm f2.8. It was a tiring trip to access the location. I regret taking this lens only to a night shoot. The colour is not the same as Sony FE 14mm f1.8 

Sony A7RV

Voigtlander 12mm f2.8 

Linking Skywatch Friday

Melbourne urban reflection for Sunday Best

 

When we finished the dinner, the walk back to carpark came across this view. 

A quick snap. No tripod. Shot wide open.

Sony A7RV

Sigma 14-24mm f2.8 

Linking Sunday Best

Marble grade 9 beef with Yuzu sauce. It tasted really nice.

Black lipped Abalone covered by garlic chips

The restaurant we went to is at Atria Fine Dining

Firelight Food truck Signs for Sign2

 

The evening was great for night urban vibe. I was using 50mm f1.2 for the sake of it. How fun!

Sony A7RV

FE 50mm f1.2 GM

Linking Sign 2

Pinnacles Milkyway Bow for Water H2O Thursday

 

This was what Joel and I were up to last weekend. New moon. Zero cloud for 5 seconds though. It was after a hike elsewhere on Phillip Island. Then we had fish n chips before coming up here for a milkyway bow.

Light pollution is seen on the right. Thanks for the urban sprawl into this once peaceful island. 

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM (this is a stitch up of 4 vertical frames)

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Just got back from a 9 hour drive from Moulamein. So buggered. Needs rest. 

Milkyway Reflection at Lake Tyrrell for Water H2O Thursday

 

I visited Lake Tyrrell last night. Solo until midnight. I was lucky to spot the reflection view of Milkyway. 

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Brisbane Night Sign for Sign 2

 

The sign was often changing its colour periodically. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4

Linking Sign2

Lake Boga Milkyway for Thursday Water H2O event

 

This was taken last night. The weather turned good on a new moon night. So I took the camera to the lake side for a snap. Damn, it was so cold -2 degrees Celsius. 

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Water H2O Thursday - for any photos to do with water

Mushroom Light up for Treasure Tuesday

 

This is a mushroom light up at Lightscape held in Botanic Garden in Melbourne

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Melbourne Lightscape for Sunday Best

 

This is the royal botanic garden. It costs 55 bucks for all time entry. No refund possible. Joel and I came here ready to shoot on Thursday night. This lake in the garden is usually quite boring for me. Not that night.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4

Linking Sunday Best

Bendigo Night Sign for Sign2

 

Since Christmas last year, this sign is becoming a permanent fixture in Rosalind Park. Whenever there is new festival in town, light projection changes. 

Sony A7RV

FE 50mm f1.2 GM

Linking Tom's Sign2

Night stall at Bendigo for Sunday Best

 

On a cold night at Bendigo, the neon light really gives a good mood.

Sony A7RV

FE 50mm f1.2 

Linking Sunday Best

Bendigo Electrical Wonderland for Sunday Best

 

I was getting back to my car after a dinner in town. There was no queue in this light up event in local park. So I decided to take a stroll.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Sunday Best