Sony has just wrapped up its inaugural Kando Trip Southeast Asia, a landmark event from August 14th to 16th, 2024, in the stunning backdrop of Bali, Indonesia. This exclusive, invite-only gathering brought together over 130 Southeast Asian creators, including participants from Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. This event marks a significant step in Sony’s commitment to nurturing creative talent and building a vibrant community.
A Journey Rooted in “Kando”
The Kando Trip, named after the Japanese word “Kando,” which describes the deep sense of awe and emotion one feels when experiencing something truly beautiful for the first time, embodies Sony’s core philosophy. Originally launched in North America in 2017, this event has become a much-anticipated gathering for the creative community, where like-minded individuals unite to share their passion for photography and videography.
Over the course of three inspiring days, participants immersed themselves in dynamic photography and videography challenges, guided by mentorship sessions from renowned Alpha creators. The event kicked off with a cutting-edge digital imaging experience, allowing attendees to get hands-on with Sony’s latest innovations, including the newly released ZV-E10 II and professional Cinema Line cameras at the Experience Demo Zones. These sessions were led by acclaimed creators ZY Cheng and Bagoes Tresna Adji, setting the tone for the creative journey ahead.
Capturing the Cultural Essence of Bali
On the second day, the creators ventured to Penglipuran Village, a site rich in cultural heritage, where they participated in specialized photography and videography experiences. The Photo Creators, led by the talented Khanh Phan, captured the vibrant spirit of Balinese culture through a series of activities, including photographing Batik artists at work and documenting a mesmerizing Cendrawasih dance, guided by Charmaine Yap and Yeo Wee Han.
Meanwhile, the Video Creators focused on storytelling through motion, beginning with a Batik-making mini-documentary, directed by Matt Low and Shimmon Joel Matthews. They also explored the picturesque village, capturing its essence from the locals to the architecture, all while experimenting with different Sony Alpha gear under the mentorship of Jaegen Tan.
Coastal Creativity Unleashed
After their cultural immersion at Penglipuran Village, the creators moved on to Kommune Beach Club for more hands-on activities, this time in a coastal setting. The Photo Creators, under the guidance of Harn Teh, mastered poolside portraits and flash sync techniques with the Alpha 9 III, followed by a fast-action horse photography session led by Charmaine and Wee Han. The day culminated in an editorial fashion photoshoot, where Fajar Kristiono and Daneswara Eka guided creators in capturing striking portraits against the serene beach landscape.
The Video Creators also had their share of creative experiences at the beach club. They filmed spectacular bar tricks, mentored by Matt and Shimmon, and transformed a simple beach picnic into a cinematic story with Jaegen, showcasing their storytelling prowess through film.
Inspiring Connections and Lasting Impact
The Kando Trip 2024 concluded with an exclusive private session featuring three renowned Alpha Creators: AUXOUT, a content creator from Japan; Miki Rai, a prolific TikTok creator based in Seattle; and Tavepong, an acclaimed Thai street photographer.
This session provided invaluable insights and tips from some of the most respected voices in the creative community across Southeast Asia.