17–19 April 2026 | Mersing, Johor
Earlier this month, Tamron Singapore and Cles Distribution brought together 14 photographers for a 3-day, 2-night photography trip to Mersing, Johor. From chasing the Milky Way past midnight to catching the first light over the Endau Abandoned Ship, it was a trip built around real shooting, good company, and learning in the field.
A Small Group, A Big Experience
Keeping the group to 14 participants was a deliberate choice. A smaller group means more personal guidance, easier movement between locations, and a better experience all round. Guided by landscape and astro photographer Desmond Chua (@xavier_dess), participants had direct access to tips and feedback throughout the trip, whether it was their first time shooting the night sky or they were looking to sharpen their technique.
The Shoots
The trip kicked off with a sunset session at the iconic Lone Tree at Pulau Mawar, a wide, open tidal flat that catches the last light beautifully. Later that night, the group returned to the same spot as the Milky Way began to rise, cameras on tripods, long exposures running.
On the second morning, everyone was up before dawn for the sunrise shoot at the Endau Abandoned Ship, one of the most striking compositions in the area. The rusting vessel against a fiery sky made for dramatic images that many participants said were the highlight of the trip.
The afternoon offered a change of pace with a street photography session at Mersing’s street art murals, a relaxed session that gave participants a chance to explore a different style of shooting. The day closed with a sunset session at Pantai Pulau Lanun, followed by a second Milky Way outing back at the Abandoned Ship.
What Participants Said
Ivan Ng, one of the 14 participants, summed it up well:
“Had a fruitful experience learning about how to shoot Milky Way from the recent Mersing trip organised by CLES and Tamron! Met new friends along the way too!”
That sense of community was something that came through naturally over the three days. Shared meals, late nights under the stars, and early mornings by the water have a way of bringing people together.
Tamron Lenses on the Ground
Selected Tamron lenses were available for participants to try during the trip. Shooting in real conditions, at night, by the coast, in low light, is one of the best ways to understand what a lens can do. Several participants took the opportunity to test lenses they had been considering.
Until the Next One
The Mersing trip was Tamron Singapore’s 2nd oversea photography outing of this kind, and the response from participants made it clear there is appetite for more. If you are interested in joining a future trip or workshop, keep an eye on our website and social media for upcoming announcements.
👉 tamronsingapore.com.sg
Trip organised by Cles Distribution Pte Ltd, official distributor of Tamron lenses in Singapore. Guided by Desmond Chua (@xavier_dess).