On equality
Anything a male photographer can do, I can do. I’ve worked with female bosses for a long time, so it was never an issue for me being a woman. I was judged as ‘just another lady’ with a camera when I first started, but once I put effort into what I was shooting, it all disappeared. I’m no feminist but I believe that I can do whatever my male counterpart can – even if I have to put in additional effort – that should never stop anyone, male or female, from attaining their goal.
Holi Festival, India
On being a culture vulture
The only few instances where I felt being a female photographer affected me was when I was attending the Holi Festival in Mathura, India. I tried to take some close-up shots of the locals on my own but soon I felt there were too many hands on me and was frantically looking for my friends. The second time I went there, I learnt to be both more careful and brave – I even punched locals who became too familiar with me. Another incident was during the Nine Emperor God Festival in Phuket, Thailand. Getting close to the devotees and the firecrackers was quite scary, but what an experience!
The lesson I learnt is that anything can be achieved when you can overcome your fear – especially in photography. As women, we have to be brave and sometimes put ourselves in uncomfortable situations to get that magical shot.
Phuket Vegetarian Festival
On her love-hate relationship with photography
I love the therapeutic side of photography but ironically, it sometimes gives me great stress when I cannot get the shot I want!
Myanmar
Semporna Girl
Thaipusam
Athena is a Canon EOS World Influencer who is big on travel photography as reflected in the world of stories she captures in her photos of architecture, wildlife, landscapes and people. A PIXERF brand ambassador, she understands the need for a vibrant and connected community in Asia that affords opportunities to learn and share knowledge.