The Phnom Penh Post held a photo exhibition at the Plantation last weekend to display 20 years of Cambodia (1992-2012) through the eyes of the Phnom Penh Post.

Professional guest speakers inspired keen young photogaphers to hone their skills and techniques. Part of the funds raised from the event will go to the non-profit organisation Tiny Toones and Kantha Bopha Hospital, which has helped care for many children this year.

The launch was celebrated last Friday, where Tiny Toones performed and professional photographers shared their experience.

Tang Chhin Sothy from Agence France-Presse (AFP), Mak Remissa from EPA and the Phnom Penh Post’s Heng Chivoan and Pha Lina shared advice on how to take a good photo.

The exhibition, held in collaboration with Corona Extra, EZECOM, VDB Loi, Coca Cola, Mountain Advertising and Butterfly Advertising, was open to the public at the Plantation on the 4th and 5th of August.

Speaking at the launch, Tang Chhin Sothy from AFP gave the crowd five tips for professional photography.

He said: “There are five basics for taking a professional photograph. First and foremost is the exposure: aperture, ISO and shutter speed. Secondly, focus. We make sure that our subject is in focus. Third, composition. Our pictures are supposed to be straight, not bent or blurred. Fourth, framing.

The way that we take the photo, we must contain the whole of the subject. We must make sure that we don’t cut off a part of the image. Last but not least – expression, or what we want our photos to say. For example, laughter or crying. These are the elements that a photographer needs to be professional.”

Van Thou, 22, a student from the National Institute of Education said: “This is a great event. As a young person, I am really supportive of charitable events. One more thing, I am really interested in photography and the way that the photographers share their experience. I want to learn from them.”