The 96-page photobook showcases Penang’s breathtaking landscapes, culture and people through the lenses of four local photographers.
Govindrajoo aside, the three others whose works are also included in the photobook are Oh Chin Eng, a special officer in the chief minister’s office; Sherwynd Rylan Kessler, a professional photographer, and Thum Chia Chieh, an electronic engineer.
Govindarajoo, 30, who was still reeling from having his work published, explained to FMT that purchasing the drone was a rather risky decision but he quickly fell in love with what he could achieve with it.
“I would spend most of my free time exploring new hidden spots and it turned into a passion in no time,” he said, adding that drone photography gives him a real thrill.
And so, when the Covid-19 pandemic hit Malaysia in 2020 and travel bans were implemented, Govindarajoo took the opportunity to fly his drone and discover the hidden sights and scenes of his hometown.
He noted that despite not having skyscrapers and high-rise buildings like in Kuala Lumpur, Penang outdoes itself with its unique landmarks and attractions.
The engineer’s works were so impressive and stunning that he was immediately approached by the keen committee of George Town Festival, who wanted to showcase both the familiar and the never-before-seen scenes of Penang.
“The photos I regularly posted up on my social media had gone viral, so they approached me and asked if I was keen to collaborate,” said Govindarajoo.
“22 of my photographs were selected to represent the beauty of George Town and Penang.”
Despite how beautiful his photos turned out, Govindarajoo admitted that he was rather intimidated by the other three contributors since they were well-known professional photographers.
Still, he affirmed that he takes his passion very seriously and aims to deliver only the best.
“I make it a point to take my photographs during the golden hour. That’s the short window of time right after sunrise and again right before sunset, when the air is filled with a flattering golden hue,” said Govindarajoo.
“It’s the perfect time for photographing everything from landscapes to portraits.”
One of Govindarajoo’s photos of a fisherman village was selected to grace the cover of ‘Penang at a Glance’, for which he received multiple praises as not many people — Penangites included — were aware that such a place existed.
“I want to change people’s perspectives of what they know about Penang and make them appreciate what we have. And these photographs do exactly that.”
Despite his excitement of having his photographs featured in such a momentous publication, this isn’t the engineer’s first commendation.
In 2020, his photos of Penang’s second bridge and Habitat Penang Hill’s canopy walk received special mentions in the 2020 Aerial Photography Awards. Of the two photos, Govindrajoo cited the latter to be his favourite.
“I initially planned to take a photo at sunset but it was pouring away. So, I got my friend to help me hold an umbrella there and I waited till the rain stopped to snap a photo. When I posted it up, everyone was so curious as to where this place was.”
When asked if he would ever consider leaving his job and pursuing photography full time, Govindarajoo laughed and said “perhaps not”, because he remains faithful to one dream he’s had since he was a young boy, which is to venture into the oil and gas industry.
“I’ve even received a few requests for photoshoots, but I don’t think I’ll get into that for now. Maybe I will later on when I’m in my forties,” he chuckled.
For more stunning photos, you can check out Govindarajoo’s Instagram here.