SUNSTAR UPS ANTE ON PHOTOLYMPICS
Returning photolympics participant Dan Douglas Ong was named overall winner
It was a pressure test of time and skill for photographers at the SunStar Photolympics 2017 at SM Seaside City Cebu last Sept. 16.
This year, SunStar Cebu upped the ante by implementing a 15-minute time limit to shoot for two of the three categories: models alongside stylish vehicles by Volkswagen for the fashion category and boodle feasts by Blackbeard’s Seafood Island for the food category. For the architecture category, the photographers took photos at the mall premises beforehand.
SunStar Cebu partnered with Volkswagen for the two vehicles featured in the fashion category. “Like fashion, a Volkswagen car corresponds to a lifestyle—different models, different lifestyles. The iconic Beetle is more of a Sunday car while the Jetta is an everyday car—versatile, good for both the city and the outdoors,” said Volkswagen Cebu Branch manager Renato Dumaraos.
“When people hear Volkswagen, they usually think it’s expensive,” Dumaraos said, citing the Jetta as the most affordable model the brand currently offers.
Joining the Photolympics for the first time were Dang de Larrazabal, a businesswoman, and Rod Incorporado, an I.T. professional. The two agreed that the time limit was the most challenging part of the contest.
“I’m very happy to see new faces this year,” said Joseph Ong, a fashion photographer.
“You have this adrenaline rush. You don’t know how you’re going to pull it off, how to achieve your vision. It’s always exciting and challenging,” said this year’s overall winner and returning participant Dan Douglas Ong.
The category winners are Robo Formacion for architecture, Dan Douglas Ong for fashion and Earl Tavera for food.
SunStar Photolympics 2017 was presented by Basic Graphics Incorporated, SM Seaside City Cebu and AirAsia.
TOTAL PACKAGE. In choosing the winning photography, fashion photographer Joseph Ong says, “It has to project the whole look, the total package—from the dress to the model’s facial expressions.”