CAMBODIA PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR 2025 | YOUR NEXT PHOTO ADVENTURE AWAITS!
PRIVATE TOUR (12 DAYS)
Cambodia in Focus: Ancient temples, Smiling Faces, and Timeless Traditions
WHY CAMBODIA ? 🇰🇭
While Angkor’s ancient temples inevitably draw the majority of photographers, Cambodia has also an untapped world of people and street photography waiting to be discovered. Countryside villages, with their wooden houses and verdant rice fields, offer intimate glimpses into the real life in Cambodia. Local markets burst with photographic potential – from the vibrant displays of exotic fruits and fresh vegetables to the animated conversations between vendors and buyers. Local monasteries with novice monks are also one the highlights of this tour where you get get an immersive experience into their daily routine but also capture candid portraits. If you enjoy people photography, you’ll find that Cambodians—from market vendors to villagers—are typically friendly and, with rare exceptions, happy to have their picture taken once you ask.
ANGKOR TEMPLES PHOTOGRAPHY
Photographing the temples of Angkor is on the bucket list of many photographers worldwide. Cambodia, and Siem Reap in particular, boasts a unique concentration of ancient temples spanning from the 7th to 14th centuries, making Siem Reap the gateway for photography expeditions to numerous temples—enough to satisfy any photographer’s craving. If it is your first time visiting the Angkor complex you will be amazed by its immense size and the countless photographic opportunities it offers. However, capturing good images requires a lot of sweat and optimal lighting conditions. The green season, from August to November, is particularly rewarding as many temples become adorned with a thick coating of moss that adds an extra dimension of beauty to photographs. During the monsoon season, you can also capture unique images of temples reflected in puddles, creating beautiful mirror-like effects.
PEOPLE PHOTOGRAPHY
People and street photography may not be the first thing that comes to mind for photographers traveling to Cambodia. However, numerous opportunities exist since Cambodia remains largely rural in 2025, with over 70% of the population living outside urban areas. Compelling images can be captured in local markets, around Tonle Sap lake, and in small towns and villages. Monk photography is highly sought after, and while I do not propose staged photography of monks in ancient temples, it’s possible to photograph them in modern temples called wats or pagodas. You’ll encounter novice monks in bright orange robes going about their daily routines, creating beautiful scenes that exist only briefly. You might capture them studying languages, cleaning temple grounds, or chanting prayers as the sun sets. These spontaneous, candid moments truly reveal the essence of Cambodia’s Buddhist culture.
SMALL AND INTIMATE GROUP
I want to keep this photo tour small and intimate. It can accommodate a solo traveler, a photographer with one or two accompanying non-photographers, or a small group of 3 to 4 friends passionate about photography. The advantage of having such a small group is that it makes it easier to photograph in confined spaces like indoor markets, or to be discreet when capturing the daily life of monks, for example.
TAILORED ITINERARY
During this photo tour, content will be adjusted to your photography level and preferences (people photography, temple photography). Additionally, depending on your level of fitness we can do some treks or covering more distances by e-bikes.
CAMBODIA PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS | EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
Please have a look at the events and opportunities calendar below if you are looking for others dates beside the one above for your Cambodia photography tour. You will also find links to blogpost for more information.
| Month | Events or Opportunities |
|---|---|
| February | Meak Bochea |
| March | Spring Equinox |
| May | Vesak Bochea |
| August | Rice Transplantation, Green Season (moss in temples) |
| October | Green Season (moss in temples) |
| December | Rice Harvesting |
PHOTOGRAPHY HIGHLIGHTS
- MEET FRIENDLY LOCALS AND ENGAGE IN PORTRAITURE (NOT STAGED).
- GET IMMERSIVE ACCESS TO MONKS AND DOCUMENT THEIR DAILY RITUALS.
- GET TO THE MOST BEAUTIFUL TEMPLE SPOTS WITH THE BEST LIGHT.
- RIDE THE HIDDEN TRAILS OF THE ANGKOR PARK BY E-BIKES (OPTIONAL).
- WITNESS THE DAILY LIFE OF PEOPLE LIVING NEAR THE GREAT TONLE SAP LAKE.
CAMBODIA PHOTO TOURS | TESTIMONIALS
A Must-Do Photography Tour in Siem Reap with Laurent. If you’re passionate about photography and planning a trip to Siem Reap, I highly recommend booking a photography tour with Laurent – it exceeded my expectations in every way. This was, without a doubt, the best photography experience I’ve ever had – and I’ve traveled extensively!
I booked the three-day tour in Siem Reap, and Laurent carefully customized the itinerary to match my preference for portrait photography, making the experience feel truly personal and tailored to my style. He struck the perfect balance between temple and people photography, ensuring I got the best of both worlds.
Laurent is incredibly patient, never rushing me even when I took my time composing shots. He has an amazing eye for creative angles and fresh perspectives, which helped me see and capture the temples in ways I never would have on my own. Despite having done a standard Angkor Wat sunrise tour the day before, I found that Laurent’s deep knowledge of the temples and their history far surpassed that of the official tour guide. What made it even better was how he seamlessly integrated this knowledge into our practical shooting sessions – it felt natural, never like a lecture.
Beyond technical expertise, Laurent is a great storyteller, sharing fascinating anecdotes that added depth to the experience. He provided valuable guidance on camera settings, from aperture, shutter speed, to ISO, and even helped me discover new functions of my camera (which I’ve had for six years!). Thanks to his tips, my approach to photography has completely transformed.
One of the standout aspects of the tour was how flexible it was. Laurent adjusted our itinerary based on the weather, time of day, and crowd levels to ensure the best shooting conditions. He also took me to hidden spots that regular tourist tours wouldn’t include, giving me unique opportunities for photography.
The experience was also comfortable and well-organized. His driver was very careful and kind, the car had AC, a mini fridge with cold water (a lifesaver in the Cambodian heat), and Laurent even treated me to two lunches. Throughout the tour, I always felt safe and well taken care of (even though I was travelling solo).
Even though I usually focus on portrait photography, and temple/architecture photography wasn’t really my thing, Laurent made it so engaging that I actually started enjoying it. Now, I feel confident and prepared to shoot architectural subjects in the future.
An added bonus? Laurent even lent me his 17-40mm lens a few times, which was incredibly generous and helped me experiment with wider angles.
If you’re looking for a personalized, enriching, and top-tier photography experience in Siem Reap, this is the tour to book. Laurent’s expertise, patience, and passion for photography make all the difference. I left not only with stunning photos, new skills and fresh perspective on photography, but also with great memories from Cambodia and a deeper understanding of its history and culture. Absolutely worth it.
Merci Laurent!
If you want to bring home the best pictures and memories, this is how to do it. Last week I had the pleasure of being on tour with Laurent and I had the most creative and productive time! He created a personalized intenary for my interests and photographic ideas. He was flexible in adapting to weather conditions and creative in finding views and places while we spoke.
His experience and expertise will help you finding places and pictures you otherwise would need years of living there. our driver Misal also was the most helpful person and both coordinated an experience I can only recommend the highest. If you are serious about bringing home your best pictures and memories, this is the best and most pleasant way to do it. If I come back, I will make sure to book another tour!
Merci bien Laurent for this unforgettable experience. I learned a lot and had great fun!
We had a very enjoyable, satisfying and productive photographic tour with Laurent. On a 4-day tour, Laurent was able to suggest a balanced and realistic itinerary, which he had discussed with us in detail a few months ahead, taking into account what we were interested in photographing.
A good balance between the amazing ancient temples, as well as authentic daily lives of Khmer people today. Laurent took us to the “must-see” temples at appropriate times, taking into account lighting, crowds and weather. You will get those iconic shots, and perhaps even with a monk or two in the foreground! More than just a tour guide, Laurent was able to provide expertise about camera angles and perspectives which take you beyond shooting postcards.
Just as importantly, Laurent took us to villages, local markets, and modern working monasteries, where we were able to photograph the people comfortably. Clearly he has a relationship with them already, and so the people were happy and cooperative.
Laurent is reliable and punctual, providing an air-conditioned Lexus 4WD and dedicated driver. I can strongly recommend Laurent if you are a novice or advanced photographer, and is also welcoming of companion travellers who are not necessarily photographers.
LAURENT DAMBIES | YOUR CAMBODIA PHOTOGRAPHY GUIDE
CAMBODIA PHOTO TOUR ITINERARY 12 DAYS (EXAMPLE)
DAY 1 - SIEM REAP
Upon your arrival at Siem Reap International Airport, I will receive you and we drive to your hotel in the city center. During our welcome dinner, I will give you an introduction of our tour together. We will conduct a gear check – ensuring your equipment is primed for the coming days of shooting.
DAY 2: SIEM REAP. FIRST DAY 📷
Our day begins early at Ta Prohm, the atmospheric jungle temple famously featured in the early 2000s Tomb Raider film. You’ll photograph this remarkable site in the soft morning light, before tourist crowds arrive. We’ll then explore several intimate, lesser-known temples in the vicinity. After refreshing at your hotel during the midday heat, we’ll return to the archaeological park to photograph Angkor Wat during the golden hour, staying until after sunrise.
DAY 3: SIEM REAP
Another early morning takes us to a serene monastery, where we’ll respectfully photograph young monks during their morning rituals. You’ll have opportunities to capture intimate moments. Nearby, a local market offers a vibrant palette of colors and authentic scenes—ideal for practicing your street photography techniques.
In the afternoon, we’ll explore Preah Khan temple, a photographer’s paradise. This expansive temple complex features long corridors, hidden chambers, and ornate windows. The extraordinary light quality, combined with lichen and algae-stained sandstone, will provide unique and vibrant photographic opportunities.
DAY 4: SIEM REAP - PREAH VIHAR
Our next adventure takes us deep into Cambodia’s heart, with a 90-minute drive to the mysterious Beng Mealea and Koh Ker temples. These less-visited sites offer raw, unrestored beauty that’s catnip for creative photographers.
DAY 5: PREAH VIHEAR - BANTEAY CHHMAR
This early morning, we’ll explore Preah Vihear Temple, dramatically perched over 500 meters on a cliff edge with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes of Cambodia and Thailand. The temple’s high elevation often means morning mist and fog, especially during cooler hours, which creates an atmospheric setting as the structure emerges through the clouds.
We’ll head west to Banteay Chhmar, a sprawling temple complex from the 12th century, constructed during King Jayavarman VII’s reign. We’ll explore this massive site before sunset. Unlike the temples near Siem Reap, Banteay Chhmar sees very few visitors – only 5-10 international tourists per day – making it a peaceful, undisturbed location. The temple complex is overseen by a community-led tourism initiative, offering an authentic and intimate experience and atmosphere.
As evening falls, we’ll have dinner arranged specially within the temple complex. If weather conditions are favorable, we’ll set up for night photography, taking advantage of the dark skies to photograph the stars above the ancient temple.
DAY 6:BANTEAY CHHMAR-BATTAMBANG
After a extensive visit of the main temple of Banteay Chhmar in the morning, we say good bye to our hosts and drive to Battambang where we arrive in time to watch a sunset over the colorful countryside.
DAY 7: BATTTAMBANG
Early morning we will wander through Battambang’s charming city center streets and lively local markets, soaking in the town’s laid-back atmosphere.
After a lunch break, we will explore colonial-era houses, vibrant neighborhoods, and a tranquil Cambodian pagoda, then venture to Phnom Sampov to witness the spectacular bat exodus at sunset.
DAY 8: BATTAMBANG - SIEM REAP
In the morning we will capture Battambang’s most photogenic landmarks and hidden gems, then journey to Siem Reap and settle into your hotel. After checking into your hotel in Siem Reap, this evening Experience the electrifying energy of the Phare Cambodian Circus, a mesmerizing blend of acrobatics, theater, and storytelling. Put your photography skills to the test by capturing the vibrant performances and dynamic movements.
DAY 9: SIEM REAP
We begin our morning by visiting a lively local food and fish market off the beaten path, followed by a boat ride through one of the Tonle Sap villages, where many homes are built on stilts. In the afternoon, we will explore the enigmatic and distinctive architecture of Bayon Temple during the golden hour.
DAY 10: SIEM REAP
In the morning, we will review your favorite pictures and edit them together using Lightroom. In the afternoon, we will travel to the nearby countryside to capture the daily lives of monks, the local villagers, and enjoy the sunset over the paddy fields.
DAY 11: SIEM REAP. LAST DAY 📷
For the final of this photo tour together, we will go back to Angkor Wat, where we’ll bid farewell to this magnificent temple by capturing it during the golden hour at sunrise. For those with extra energy, we can explore the temples near the Royal Palace or spend time sorting and editing your favorite photos in Lightroom. We will conclude our Cambodia photography tour adventure with a special farewell dinner together.
DAY 12: SIEM REAP.
Whether this is your final day in Cambodia or you’re extending your stay, we’ll arrange your transportation to Siem Reap International Airport.
CAMBODIA PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP GALLERY
Hover on the images to change in colors
CAMBODIA PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP FAQ’s
Can I book your Cambodia photo tour if I am a beginner in photography?
Absolutely! I enjoy providing personalized, hands-on instruction covering camera settings and composition. During this extended photo tour, you’ll see significant improvement in your photography skills. I will show you how to get the best results from your camera, as techniques can vary between different camera models.
What camera gear should I bring to Cambodia
For this photo tour, bring your DSLR or mirrorless camera along with any other recording devices such as a GoPro, Insta360, or drone (note that drone flights are prohibited over the temples). To read more about camera gear to bring to Angkor, please read my blog: 10 tips to take better pictures in the temples of Angkor.
How do I book my Cambodia photo tour?
You will need to send a 30% deposit by international banking transfer to secure your Cambodia photography tour booking. A full deposit refund will be provided if you cancel the tour at least 3 months before the start date.
Is the itinerary of your Cambodia photo tour is fully customizable?
For private tours, the photography itinerary can be customized to your preferences. Group tours have a fixed program that focuses on Siem Reap, Battambang, and the Banteay Chhmar temple.
Where does the Cambodia photo tour begin and end?
This Cambodia photo tour begins and ends in the city of Siem Reap, gateway to the temples of Angkor.
How can I reach Siem Reap?
If you’re located in Southeast Asia, daily flights are available to Siem Reap International Airport (SAI) from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Ho Chi Minh City.
For travelers from North America, you may need to fly to Phnom Penh International Airport and connect through Korea or Japan.
