When I shop for a brand new smartphone, on top of my list of features would be the shooting capabilities. I must say, I hardly use my digital camera now, be it for work or for play/leisure. Personally, my Xiaomi smartphone does what I need from a digital shooter.
Four (04) visual storytellers from across the Southeast Asian region participates in the “Proactive Action” campaign produced by the National Geographic Creative Works for Xiaomi. This endeavor documents and raises awareness of causes that are close to the hearts of storytellers to create interest and preserve their existence.
The campaign will feature a series of photos and a short video to highlight the different themes chosen by each explorer, where the Xiaomi 12 Pro will put in tests of its triple 50MP pro-grade camera lenses, highlighting especially new features such as ProFocus and Ultra Night Video, encompassing a wide array of social, cultural and environmental themes that are close to each explorers’ hearts.
The Philippines’ very own Gab Mejia, together with Annice Lyn from Malaysia, Sirachai “Shin” Arunrugstichai from Thailand, and Linh Pham from Vietnam tell stories through their lenses for this project.
“We are excited to be collaborating with National Geographic Creative Works on this campaign as we celebrate the people, lives and cultures in Southeast Asia. Dubbed as the premium flagship of Xiaomi, Xiaomi 12 Pro can beautifully capture the visual stories of each explorer that will be a part of this campaign with its pro-grade triple 50MP camera array, complemented with Xiaomi’s advanced AI algorithm. We look forward to seeing how the featured National Geographic Photographers will master every scene,” according to KM Leong, General Manager for Southeast Asia of Xiaomi International.
Gab Mejia (Philippines)
This Pinoy photographer embarks on a journey to document the Mountain People of the Cordilleras (the highest mountain range in the Nothern Philippines) based on its cultural and natural aspects. Gab also highlights the theme, as well as the importance of cultural and natural heritage preservation.
Annice Lyn (Malaysia)
Malaysian Annice documents the work of the Wayang Kulit master (traditionally known as the puppet shadow-play) from behind-the-scene moments of the tradition, the craftsmanship of making various puppets, as well as the performances. This photographer hopes to share the social and cultural importance of bringing families and communities together raising awareness of this art form, whilst preserving it for the future generations to come.
Sirachai “Shin” Arunrugstichai (Thailand)
Exploring one of the largest remaining mangrove forests of eastern Thailand at Prasae Estuary, Shin captures the successful results of conservation efforts that prevent the degradation of this natural wonder on its path of recovery. This photographer portrays the rich biodiversity of this place while also showing the intertwining relationships of the local community and its rich natural resources.
Linh Pham (Vietnam)
Vietnamese Linh went around Ho Chi Minh City to capture its rich culture all the way to its hidden corners (not found in travel guides). Using his senses and keen eye to look beyond the mundane, this photographer ventures through an unnamed coffee shop under the bridge, a museum with million-year-old specimens, a charming neighborhood blended with Vietnamese and Chinese heritage, and a peaceful fishing island with the hope to preserve the city’s legacy and share it with the world.
Xiaomi Photography Academy
Xiaomi will be holding a photography contest called Xiaomi Photography Academy: A Celebration of People, Life, and Culture across Southeast Asia for those who want to showcase their skills and share the fascinating parts of their lives and culture. The photo contest, part of the Proactive Action campaign, will run from 14 May 2022 until 14 June 2022 and is open to individuals who own a Redmi or Xiaomi phone. Participants are encouraged to take the best photos that represent the theme.
Up for grabs in this competition is a Xiaomi Smart Package (Mi TV P1 55″, Mi Soundbar, Xiaomi Watch S1, Mi Standing Fan 2) for the Grand Prize Winner plus he or she will be named a Xiaomi Photography Ambassador. Four (04) consolation prize winners will be named and will take home Xiaomi Buds 3 each. The winners will be announced on 17 June 2022 (check the Xiaomi Philippines social media channels for more information).
Learning to Master Every Scene from the Masters
Want to learn from the master? Xiaomi 12 Series users are invited to join the Xiaomi Photography Academy Masterclass to be conducted by no less than Gab Mejia on 14 May 2022 at the Masungi Georeserve. Participants of the masterclass also stand a chance to win a Xiaomi Mi-stery Box after the program.
Interested in participating? Please sign up here.