Capturing Serenity and Culture: My Day at Chuang Yen Monastery
This summer has been filled with so many reel moments, each snapshot echoing the warmth and vibrancy of the season. On August 19th, my family and I decided to spend the day at Chuang Yen Monastery, an oasis of tranquility nestled amidst the natural beauty of New York. I had my trusty Nikon F3 by my side, along with the Nikkor ai-s 35mm f2 lens, ready to capture the charm and spirit of the place.
This visit was extra special. Not just because of the location, but because I got to use the most coveted Kodak Porta 400 film for the first time. I had always heard dad rave about its warm and exquisite color tones. Now, I got the chance to experience it myself.
Chuang Yen Monastery is not just a place of worship; it's an architectural marvel. The intricately designed buildings, sprawling courtyards, and meticulously maintained gardens offer a delightful contrast to the bustling life outside. Each structure seems to narrate tales of ancient wisdom, spiritual quests, and the timeless essence of Buddhism.
One thing I particularly loved was the practice of visitors seeking blessings for good fortune. It's a longstanding Chinese cultural tradition to visit monasteries and temples with hopes of attaining good luck and blessings. Families come with hope in their hearts and leave with a sense of calm, having taken a moment to reflect, pray, and offer their respects.
The Porta 400 film added a layer of warmth to every photo, rendering the monastery's golds and reds in a hue that looked like they were painted with the summer sun ray.
Walking around, I felt a deep connection with the surroundings. The ambience was infused with an air of contemplation and peace. From the iconic Great Buddha Hall to the serene Seven Jewel Lakes, every corner of the monastery seemed to beckon with a promise of a story waiting to be told.
Looking back at the photos, I'm thrilled with how they turned out. The Kodak Porta 400 indeed lived up to its reputation, encapsulating the vivid colors and emotions of the day. It felt like each frame resonated with the monastery's essence and the rich tapestry of cultural practices we witnessed.
To anyone thinking of visiting Chuang Yen Monastery, I say, take that trip. Embrace the beauty, the culture, and the serenity it offers. And if you're a budding photographer like me, don't forget your camera! The moments you'll capture will indeed be treasures to cherish.
Until my next adventure, keep exploring, keep dreaming, and keep capturing those beautiful reel moments. 📸🌸🏯
