Frequently Asked Questions

Overview

This document was culled from the PH-PHOTO electronic mailing list archives (which at the time of this writing contained over 50,000 posts since 2000. Please note that this document does not represent the PH-PHOTO mailing list or its members in any way. This FAQ is not officially generated or sanctioned by the group. These are merely the results of my extensive searches through the archives for these questions, many of which I did not know the answers myself.

Once again, your mileage may vary.

For the purposes of navigation, this document has been split up into categories. Each category, like DARKROOM FAQ is its own page with a complete index of all questions taken up at the very top.

Table of Contents

FAQ Proper

Where can I find [brand of equipment] here in the Philippines?
This site has compiled a list of suppliers of photographic equipment. The most updated version of this list can always be found at http://www.diversions.com.ph/monochromic/suppliers.htm. Check this list for particular brands or types of products / services that you require. You can also download the list as a PDF file.

Please take note that retailers will often give you better prices than distributors, distributors are listed because they are usually the chief support providers for the brands that they import.

As far as Metro Manila is concerned, Quiapo (Hidalgo Street) and Binondo/Escolta are considered the mecca of photography supplies and equipment. You'll find everything here, and usually at a much cheaper price, too.

What is a HIDALGO PILGRIMAGE or HIDALGO TOUR?
Essentially, it's a semi-guided, semi-organized group outing to Hidalgo Street in Quiapo, set up by the members of the PH-PHOTO mailing list. This type of event is a staple for most photography clubs in Manila. If you've never been there, this is a great way to get acquainted with the ins and outs of the shops in this "mecca" for photo gear and supplies. It's also a great opportunity to get group bargains and just get to meet other photographers, both amateur and professional.

Participants (or pilgrims, as it were) meet up at a convenient location like Megamall in the morning and go together via public transport. A number will usually also meet up and join the group near Quiapo church. If you've been here before, you know'll understand why public transport is the best option.

Click here to learn more about the Hidalgo Experience.

Where is HIDALGO?
It's in Quiapo. You can find it in any city map. In fact, that's your best bet until I find enough time to post a map on the site.

The "best" way to get there is really by public transportation because of the riculous traffic in that area (both human and vehicular). Just get to the LRT and get off at Carriedo Station and you're a block away. If you do plan to take a car, don't try to bring your car in close. Park far in a public parking lot and just walk / commute the rest of the way.

Click here to learn more about the Hidalgo Experience.

How this stuff [in Hidalgo] be so cheap? Is it fake?
While it's ALWAYS a possibility, for the most part the stuff in Quiapo is the real thing. Stuff is cheaper in Quiapo for many reasons. Of couse, overheads for businesses are much lower in Quiapo. Also, some merchandise is "gray" market. In some cases, authorized service centers will not honor the warranty of gray market items. In items like batteries and other consumables, the shops buy in bulk and sell tingi. When in doubt, ASK if the item is covered by a local warranty.

Note that some shops will provide their own warranties in lieu of the "official" warranties. In some cases this is good enough. Once again, your mileage may vary.

Where can I have my [brand and model of equipment] fixed or repaired?
If you bought it in the Philippines, you should try the shop you bought it from first. If you bought it abroad or the shop can't help you, your best bet is to call the authorized distributor. If there is no authorized distributor, you can try the repair shops in Hidalgo, or, you post a message on the PH-PHOTO list and ask for recommendations. Almost always, someone has some gear of the same brand and can give recommendations.

Film or digital?
This is a long discussion and an oft-beaten dead horse on the 'Net. To be brief: it depends. Each medium presents very valid advantages and disadvantages. It really will depend on what you intend to do. There are numerous sites that discuss the merits of each. There are thousands more of individuals talking about their own preferences.

I'm thinking of setting up my own darkroom. Any tips?
Opinions will vary slightly between any two photographers. However some general recommendations do converge across the experts. Because there is much to cover in this question, it has been discussed in its own separate article. You can access it here.

Where can I have prints done from my digital camera?
There are a lot of places that you can now have digital prints made (at least if you're in Manila). Check out the supplier's list and look for the companies that have the light blue "DP" icon. Highly recommended shops include the FUJI Digital Imaging Station at the basement floor of SM Megamall and K Digital (fondly known as Jigger's) in Ortigas.

How do you eBay? (You guys actually do that?)
Yes, some of the guys on the PH-PHOTO board have amassed quite a bit of experience bidding for and having equipment shipped to the Philippines. Because there are lots of questions about this item, a separate dedicated FAQ has been created. Access it here.

Are there any courses I can take to learn more about photography?
You have several options. Leo Castillo and Jo Avila regularly hold workshops and courses. You should check out the PH-PHOTO list to ask for the schedule of current offerings. You can also try the UP Film Center's Summer workshops. The Federation of Philippine Photographers Foundation (FPPF) holds basic and advanced workshops every month at Intramuros. Their workshops are normally held on Sundays and can span 3-4 consecutive Sundays. Check out the external links section for link to the FPPF website.

This document was last updated on 15 July 2003