Worker at the prahok market of Battambang (Phsar Prahok)
Some markets are also known for their architecture: the central market of Phnom Penh (Phsar Thmey), the central market of Battambang (Phsar Nath) to name as few which were built in the 1930’s following an Art Deco style.
Interior of Battambang market (Psa Nat), Art Deco style
Architecture is one thing but what is inside of course is more interesting. One thing Asian local markets are sharing is their energy especially during morning peak hours.
Photographers are always looking for the best light and in an indoor market in early morning when the sun is barely above the horizon, this quest could prove to be quite challenging. The light can be diffused softly through the ceiling or coming directly through some small holes in the metallic structure making impressive beams of light added some atmosphere to the pictures. These lighting conditions make market photography challenging and hence the best place to learn or improve your photography.
The space you will have to take pictures can be limited because indoor markets have generally narrow lanes and some area are congested. Be aware of the traffic from motorbikes as they are allowed to cross the market. Markets are also a good opportunity to catch some short lived moments, capture locals sellers and customers going about their day. Mothers also often bring their kids at the market and always happy to strike a pose.
Barista in local market
Approaching people and get the perfect portrait is a challenge by itself and it gets easier to do that with a photography guide who has established some relationships with local sellers. Cambodian people are very friendly and are open to be photographed but it is always better to ask first. Cambodia is changing rapidly but in a local market you can still find elderly women wearing a traditional piece of cloth called kroma folded around their heads.
Beside people, food photography is not to be missed and food stalls, especially vegetable ones can be particularly colorful. You can even capture abstract patterns there if you looking carefully as these water lily stems below.
If you are interested to capture similar pictures and improve your photography skills, please have a look at our two guided photography tours in Siem Reap here and here. Our multi-day tour in Battambang province will provided you also with many photography opportunities out of the beaten path.