Singapore Travel Photos: You’ll Want To Visit Singapore After This!

For travel photographers, Singapore is a dream destination. One of the first things that strikes a photographer in Singapore is the seamless fusion of cultures. Little India, Chinatown, and Kampong Glam are a feast for the senses and the lens. Moreover, Singapore’s skyline is nothing short of iconic. From the ultra-modern Marina Bay Sands to the artistic Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay, there’s no shortage of architectural wonders. Finally, Singapore’s street life is nothing short of dynamic. It’s a goldmine for street photographers. From bustling hawker centers to traditional markets, there are endless opportunities to capture candid moments.

There are a lot of top travel bloggers who take excellent travel photos that capture the imagination of their audience; however, there are a select few who really ‘standout’ from the crowd and take things to entirely new level. T-Roy, the man behind Fogg Odyssey, is certanly one of these individuals & I’m thrilled to be featuring a guest photo essay (he’s selected on Singapore) that showcases a variety of stunning shots he took back in 2009 while visiting one of the true pillar cities found in all of South East Asia.

In 2009 I had to exit Thailand for a visa run and decided it was time to explore Singapore.  I packed a small bag, bought a cheap ticket from Air Asia and grabbed my camera to see what all the fuse was about on this tiny island nation.

I spent a full week there and even though it’s a lot more expensive then the rest of Asia I quickly fell in love with the country. Moreover, I spent most of my time walking around the city and taking random photos, this is what I got.

Singapore Photo Essay: Singapore Through Travel Photos

#1) Singapore Sling at the Long Bar in Raffles Hotel

“The original Singapore Sling drink at the famous Long Bar in the Raffles Hotel. Be warned though, one drink costs about $15 USD!”

A Timeless Tradition in an Iconic Setting

The Raffles Hotel, a colonial masterpiece that dates back to 1887. Thus, it holds a significant place in Singapore’s history. The Long Bar, where the Singapore Sling was born in 1915 by bartender Ngiam Tong Boon, is an essential stop to bridge Singapore’s colonial past.

• Colonial ambiance: The bar’s dark wood, old-fashioned fans, rattan furniture, and earthy tones offer rich textures and contrasts.
• Nostalgic decor: The quirky tradition of tossing peanut shells on the floor adds a sense of informality to an otherwise refined space.
• Candid moments: The casual interaction of patrons enjoying drinks and conversation offers numerous candid photographic opportunities.

Photography Tip: Use natural light streaming in from the windows during the late afternoon to capture the warm tones of the bar, enhancing the vintage vibe.

Capturing the Classic Singapore Sling

The Singapore Sling itself is a photographer’s delight. Its bright, vibrant pink color is eye-catching and offers great contrast against the vintage backdrop of the Long Bar. Whether you’re shooting the drink itself, the process of it being made, or someone enjoying it, there are numerous angles and perspectives to explore.

• The drink’s vibrant pink hue pops against the dark, rustic setting.
• The pineapple slice and cherry garnish add a touch of tropical flair to your shots.
• The making of the cocktail offers an action shot as bartenders shake and pour the famous drink.
• Customers sipping their Sling is perfect for lifestyle or candid travel photography.

Photography Tip: Use a shallow depth of field to focus on the cocktail while softly blurring the background, enhancing the drink’s bright, vivid colors.

#2 Marina Barrage At Golden Hour

“Marina Barrage… would you believe this is an industrial water plant? Looks more like an art museum doesn’t it?”

Marina Barrage is a modern engineering marvel. Moreover, it serves as a vital part of Singapore’s water supply and flood control system. However, it is more than just a dam. It’s a sprawling, open space where locals and tourists come together to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Stunning Panoramic Views of Singapore’s Skyline

Marina Barrage offers one of the most picturesque viewpoints of Singapore’s iconic skyline. From this vantage point, photographers can capture panoramic shots that include Marina Bay Sands, the Singapore Flyer, Gardens by the Bay, and towering skyscrapers.

• Sunset reflections: As the sun begins to set, the water surrounding Marina Barrage reflects the golden tones, adding a mirror-like effect to your images.
• Backdrop for portraits: If you’re shooting portraits, the skyline serves as a breathtaking backdrop, making every photo stand out with a mix of urban and natural beauty.
• Dynamic angles: The open space of the barrage allows you to move around and experiment with different angles, whether you’re capturing wide-angle shots of the city or zooming in on architectural details.

Photography Tip: Arrive early before sunset to secure the best spot for your shot and set up your tripod. The changing light during the golden hour moves quickly, so it’s good to be ready for those fleeting moments.

#3) Flying Kites At Grass Park (Marina Barrage)

“On top of the Marina Barrage is a grass park where people are famous for flying kites.”

One of the most memorable and visually captivating experiences for visitors to Marina Barrage is watching, and even participating in, the kite flying at Grass Park. This is an expansive green rooftop lawn area overlooking the skyline of Singapore. For travel photographers, this activity offers not only fun but also an amazing opportunity to capture dynamic, colorful, and candid moments.

A Playful Tradition in a Stunning Location

Kite flying has long been a popular pastime in Singapore. The open sky, combined with the lush green rooftop lawn and panoramic views of the Marina Bay Sands and Singapore skyline, creates an ideal backdrop for this activity.

For photographers, this scene provides endless opportunities for dynamic shots:

• Brightly colored kites soaring against the backdrop of the skyline or the sunset sky.
• Action shots of children and adults alike running and playing as they launch their kites into the air.
• Candid moments of families and friends enjoying a peaceful day outdoors.

Photography Tip: Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the motion of kites flying against the backdrop of the skyline, or try a slower shutter speed to create motion blur for a more artistic effect.

#4) Girls Jumping For A Photo With Cranes In The Background

“Girls jump for a photo with cranes in the background. This was taken on top of Marina Barrage.”

At Marina Barrage, it’s not unusual to spot groups of friends and tourists staging fun and dynamic photos against the backdrop of Singapore’s impressive skyline. One such shot is the “jumping photo”—a group of people leaping into the air with wide smiles, perfectly timed to capture the moment of suspension.

Dynamism and Action in the Photo

Capturing jumping shots brings a sense of action, fun, and energy to your photography. Add to that the cranes and skyline, and you’ve got a unique photo.

• Movement and emotion: These types of shots are great for capturing not only the jump but the joy and excitement of the moment, making for a candid and lively photo.
• Timing and skill: For photographers, capturing the exact moment of suspension in the air takes skill. The timing has to be just right, making the successful capture all the more rewarding.
• Multiple tries for perfection: Don’t be afraid to take several shots to get the perfect jump, as the multiple attempts themselves often lead to spontaneous, laughter-filled moments.

Photography Tip: Use a fast shutter speed (1/1000 sec or faster) to freeze the action, ensuring that you capture the girls mid-air in sharp focus against the scenic backdrop.

#5) Hindu Temple in Singapore

“People might not know it but Singapore is full of Indians and Hindu is a big religion there.”

Visiting the Hindu temples in Singapore is one of the most culturally immersive and visually captivating experiences that travelers and photographers alike can enjoy. As a city known for its multiculturalism, Singapore is home to several stunning Hindu temples that not only serve as places of worship but also as architectural marvels. These temples offer visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage of the local Indian community.

Vibrant Architecture and Intricate Details

The architecture of Hindu temples in Singapore is nothing short of spectacular. Many of the temples are adorned with intricate carvings, colorful statues of gods and goddesses, and towering gopurams (ornate entrance towers), all of which make for fascinating photography subjects.

• Gopuram towers: These towering structures are often the first thing that draws the eye. Covered in brightly painted statues of deities, mythical creatures, and symbolic figures, they are a work of art in themselves and make for stunning close-ups or wide-angle shots.
• Intricate carvings: The level of detail in the carvings found on temple walls, ceilings, and pillars is incredible. Photographers can capture these intricate designs to highlight the craftsmanship and devotion that went into building these temples.
• Colorful statues: Hindu temples are known for their use of vibrant colors. Statues of gods and goddesses are typically adorned in colorful paints, creating a lively and photogenic contrast against the backdrop of the temple.

Photography Tip: Use a zoom lens to capture the fine details in the statues and carvings, especially on the gopuram towers. A wide-angle lens will help you capture the grandeur of the entire temple facade.

#6) Cosplay Costume In Singapore

“A girl dressed up for an event called Cosplay. Big in Asia it’s where you dress up as your favorite cartoon character and you can see people who actually go to work looking like this sometimes.”

Cosplay—the practice of dressing up as characters from anime, manga, movies, and video games—has grown into a global phenomenon, and Singapore has become one of the key hubs for this creative expression in Southeast Asia. For travel photographers, capturing cosplay in Singapore offers a unique photographic experience that blends pop culture, artistry, and local creativity.

An Explosion of Color and Creativity

Cosplayers put an immense amount of effort into crafting their costumes. And this attention to detail translates into stunning visuals.

• Vibrant costumes: Many cosplay costumes feature bold, eye-catching colors that pop against the backdrop of Singapore’s urban landscape, creating striking and dynamic compositions.
• Handmade details: The majority of cosplayers create their costumes by hand, resulting in unique outfits with incredible detail. From elaborate wigs to intricately designed armor, these details make for fascinating close-up photography.
• Thematic variety: Whether it’s anime characters with pastel-colored wigs or superheroes with metallic suits, the diversity in costume themes means that photographers can capture a wide range of subjects, each telling a different visual story.

Photography Tip: Use a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower) to create a shallow depth of field, isolating the cosplayer against the background and drawing attention to the details of the costume.

#7) The Durian AKA The Esplanade at night in Singapore

“The Esplanade is a theater center for performing arts. Like the Sydney Opera House it’s a national symbol for Singapore.”

The Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, affectionately nicknamed “The Durian” because of its spiky, durian-like appearance, is one of Singapore’s most iconic landmarks. By day, the Esplanade is a bustling hub of art and culture. But at night, it transforms into a photographer’s paradise, bathed in stunning light and framed by the glittering skyline of Marina Bay.

Architectural Masterpiece Lit Up

The Esplanade’s distinctive spiky domes are a marvel of modern architecture. They resemble the thorny shell of the durian fruit, which is beloved (and occasionally feared) in Southeast Asia. At night, the domes are illuminated by soft, ambient lighting that highlights their intricate geometric patterns, creating a striking contrast against the dark sky.

• Illuminated spikes: The spiky domes of The Esplanade take on an otherworldly glow at night, creating stunning compositions for both wide-angle shots and close-up architectural details.
• Symmetry and structure: The unique symmetry of the structure, coupled with its modern design, provides photographers with endless opportunities to experiment with angles, leading lines, and reflections.
• Golden hour to blue hour: As night falls, photographers can capture the transition from golden hour to blue hour, a magical time when the warm glow of the setting sun meets the cool tones of the evening sky, enhancing the visual impact of The Durian.

Photography Tip: Use a tripod to capture sharp, long-exposure shots of the illuminated structure at night. This will allow you to capture the glow of the lights while also keeping the architectural details crisp.

#8) Boy Playing At A Fountain In Singapore

“A boy playing in a fountain inside a shopping center.”

In a bustling city like Singapore, there’s beauty not just in the architecture or iconic landmarks, but in the small, candid moments that unfold in public spaces. One such scenario is the sight of a a simple yet joyful moment that embodies the spontaneity of urban life.

Capturing the Joy of Everyday Life

• Emotional connection: These candid moments capture genuine emotion and tell a story beyond what posed shots offer. The interaction between the environment and the subject becomes a focal point for photographers to create evocative images.
• Cultural insight: Observing how locals interact with public spaces, such as fountains, parks, and open areas, gives photographers a chance to capture the everyday essence of life in Singapore.

Pro Tip: Use a fast shutter speed (1/1000 sec or faster) to freeze moments of motion, such as a child running through a fountain. This will keep the action sharp and lively, capturing the spontaneity of the moment.

#9) Singapore Metro During Rush Hour

“The metro system in Singapore is one of the best in the world. Every 500m is a stop and it’s very affordable but yes it sometimes can get over crowded at certain times.”

The Singapore Metro, also known as the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system, is a convenient way to travel around the city. But it also is a vibrant, fast-paced environment that offers unique opportunities for travel photographers. During rush hour, the MRT transforms into a bustling hub of activity, with a sea of commuters navigating the efficient and clean system. For photographers, the MRT system offers a chance to capture the rhythms of daily life.

Capturing Urban Life in Motion

During rush hour, the Singapore Metro is alive with the motion of commuters. This offers photographers a chance to capture the bustling, kinetic energy of a global metropolis. The constant flow of people moving through the stations and train cars provides dynamic subjects for photographers who want to convey a sense of speed, movement, and purpose.

• Fast-paced environment: The sheer number of people moving through the MRT during rush hour creates a vibrant, dynamic atmosphere, perfect for capturing motion and action in your photos.
• Commuter culture: The diverse mix of commuters—business professionals, students, tourists, and families—gives photographers the chance to capture a snapshot of life in Singapore. This diversity reflects the cosmopolitan nature of the city.
• Flow of humanity: The long lines of people boarding and exiting trains, the rush through corridors, and the packed platforms create an ideal setting to capture the rhythm of urban life.

Photography Tip: Use a slow shutter speed (1/30 sec or slower) to capture the blur of moving commuters, while keeping stationary objects like the platform or signs sharp. This creates a dynamic contrast that emphasizes the energy and movement of the rush hour crowd.

#10) Singapore Distinct Architecture – Tall Modern Buildings – At Night

“…and one last shot of the beautiful city at night. It really is a photographers dream place!”

Singapore is often referred to as a city of the future. Nowhere is this more evident than in its distinct architecture. The city is a stunning blend of ultra-modern skyscrapers, futuristic designs, and green urban landscapes. The tall, modern buildings of Singapore, illuminated against the night sky, create a dazzling display of light and form, making it one of the best cities in the world for nighttime architectural photography.

Striking Skyline and Iconic Landmarks

• Marina Bay Sands: Arguably one of the most iconic buildings in the world, Marina Bay Sands stands out with its boat-shaped infinity pool perched atop three high-rise towers. At night, the building is lit in various colors, reflecting off the waters of Marina Bay and creating perfect symmetry for photographers.
• The Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay: Known locally as The Durian for its spiky architectural design, the Esplanade is a stunning structure to capture at night. With its unique geometric design, it contrasts beautifully with the other modern buildings around it.
• One Raffles Place: As one of the tallest buildings in Singapore, One Raffles Place adds to the dynamic skyline, providing a striking backdrop for nighttime photography. Its illuminated façade and reflections in the surrounding waters create ideal conditions for photographers looking to capture urban lightscapes.

Pro Tip: The best vantage points for capturing the skyline include Marina Barrage, Helix Bridge, and Merlion Park. Shooting from across Marina Bay provides the perfect opportunity to photograph the reflection of the skyline in the water.

Connect with Troy Floyd

T-roy is taking an extended holiday from being responsible. Quitting his 6-figure salary job that was killing him with 12hr work days, he decided that this wasn’t the life. He moved to Thailand and spent 3 months living a humble backpackers life and loved the experience so much he kept going. He’s currently hanging out in Medellin, Colombia doing photography work while running his own travel blog www.foggOdyssey.com.  You can also connect with him on Facebook or Twitter.