Spanish soul, Khmer stones
Walking through history: Capturing Siem Reap’s ancient beauty
Walking in ancient footsteps is not an everyday experience. For most, it happens once in a lifetime—perhaps more if fortune allows. Siem Reap is one of those rare places where history isn’t just preserved; it’s alive. The temples, some over 900 years old, still stand with an imposing grace, their intricate carvings whispering stories of past civilizations. But for travelers, temple after temple under the intense Cambodian sun can blur into a repetitive rhythm—carvings after carvings, stones upon stones.
However, as a photographer, that perspective shifts. When you’re behind the lens, every corner holds a new story, a new texture, a new play of light. And when you have the opportunity to collaborate with a model who brings these ancient backdrops to life, it becomes something truly special.
Marta in Siem Reap: An unexpected collaboration among ancient temples
Sometimes, the best collaborations happen by pure chance. I met Marta through a friend, Danny, whom I had connected with in Koh Rong. When he mentioned knowing a Spanish girl traveling solo, I immediately asked, “Is she alone?” and invited her to join us. The next day, we decided to explore the ancient temples of Siem Reap together.
What started as a casual visit quickly turned into something much more organic—Marta naturally stepped into the role of a model, and I found myself capturing her presence against the breathtaking backdrop of Khmer ruins. There was no plan, no expectations—just a spontaneous flow of creativity as we wandered from temple to temple.
Marta isn’t what some might call a conventional beauty—she doesn’t fit into the polished, superficial standards that often dominate photography and modeling. But that’s precisely what makes her so captivating in front of the lens. There’s an authenticity to her presence, a quiet confidence that translates beautifully in photos. She listens, she trusts, and she moves with a natural grace, especially in moments like the shot where I captured her mid-air, looking like a dancer suspended in time.
She’s not a professional model, yet she embraced the process with so much enthusiasm and openness. She followed my guidance with genuine curiosity, allowing me to shape the images exactly as I envisioned. When I showed her a pose, she didn’t just imitate it—she embodied it, bringing something of her own to every shot.
Beyond the photography, meeting Marta turned into something much more meaningful. We’ve stayed connected, speaking every day, and I can say I’ve found a real friend. She carries a deep sense of gratitude, kindness, and respect—qualities that aren’t always guaranteed when working with people who are more accustomed to being in front of a camera. Some of the most strikingly “perfect” models I’ve photographed in the past lacked that same warmth and humility.
Marta reminded me that beauty in photography isn’t just about physical perfection—it’s about presence, energy, and the connection between the photographer and the subject. That’s what truly makes an image come alive.
As the days went by, our synergy grew stronger. With every shot, Marta became more confident, embracing the movement, the expressions, the energy of each location. My encouragement and direction helped her relax, and her trust in the process allowed me to bring out the best in both her and the environment. She later told me, “Without you, these photos wouldn’t exist.” But I reminded her—photography is always a collaboration. A model brings life to a setting, just as a photographer captures its essence.
Siem Reap’s temples are already awe-inspiring, their intricate carvings and towering stone structures whispering stories of centuries past. But being able to use them as a setting for an impromptu shoot felt surreal. From the mystical corridors of Ta Prohm, where nature and ruins intertwine, to the iconic faces of Bayon Temple, every location added a unique texture to our images.
Looking back, this experience was more than just a photoshoot—it was a shared creative journey. Two travelers, brought together by fate, capturing fleeting moments in a place that has stood for centuries.
One of the most striking locations I photographed Marta in was [temple name], known for its unique pink-hued stone and its serene atmosphere at sunset, away from the usual crowds. The first time I visited, I spotted a beautifully carved stone ledge, untouched by time, and I knew I wanted to return with a model. When we finally did, it was the perfect setting—Marta’s presence blending seamlessly with the soft tones of the temple, creating a moment where past and present converged.
For a photographer, Siem Reap isn’t just about visiting ancient ruins. It’s about stepping into a world where every detail, every texture, and every carved doorway is an opportunity to create something timeless.
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