Indonesiantalk.com — Warmth and Reunion at TemuLawas#10 Held at Darwis Triadi School of Photography
The atmosphere was electric with warmth and enthusiasm at the Darwis Triadi School of Photography (DTSOP) in Kemang Raya, South Jakarta, as it hosted a special gathering: TemuLawas#10: Photographers and Models.
More than just a reunion, TemuLawas#10 was a cross-generational gathering that brought together photography enthusiasts from a wide range of genres, eras, and mediums—spanning from analog purists to skilled digital image makers.
The event kicked off with a hearty Indonesian lunch—featuring classics such as tahu tempe bacem, ayam bumbu rujak, and assorted local delicacies. This simple act of sharing a meal naturally set the tone for an open and vibrant day of connection and exchange.
There were no barriers, no hierarchies. Photographers from diverse backgrounds filled the spacious studio, engaged in animated conversations, exchanging stories, experiences, and bursts of laughter.
Adding to the delight, the event was fully sponsored—allowing all participants to join free of charge. This made the spirit of togetherness even more heartfelt. As the organizers put it, it was a “lecker zonder betalen”—delicious without payment, but rich in meaning.
Diverse Genres, One Community
From fashion, wedding, travel, and journalism photography to product, food, and drone photography—every genre was well represented.
Discussions flowed seamlessly into more serious topics—photographic ethics, the declining value of creative services, and the challenge of staying relevant amidst rapid technological change.
One particularly captivating story came from a young photographer who chose to shoot the deceased as a genre, not out of morbid fascination but as a niche to earn a living.
Attendees shared strategies for surviving and thriving in the industry—not just in terms of visuals, but also in maintaining professional reputation, building networks, and fostering collaboration within the creative ecosystem.
Though the conversations occasionally touched on the bitter truths of today’s price-cutting digital landscape, they were often accompanied by laughter and a shared passion—a reminder that photography is not just about making money, but about the love of the process and the stories behind the image.
As evening fell, a wave of nostalgia swept through. No longer just about darkrooms, film rolls, and manual printing, the gathering took a spiritual turn as Darwis Triadi, the host and a living legend of Indonesian photography, shared reflections on his life’s journey behind the lens.
To cap the event, Mas Darwis gifted each participant a memory book—a tangible reminder that the day’s spirit of kinship should not fade, but inspire future encounters and shared stories.
Looking Forward to More Temu Moments
Event coordinator Rr Kori Soenarko, affectionately known as Oie, stirred excitement with her closing words: “Let’s make this a quarterly tradition.” Her proposal was met with rousing applause and broad smiles, as everyone left feeling like they were part of something truly intangible yet deeply real—a community where each one belongs.
TemuLawas#10 was proof that photography is more than technique or aesthetics. It is about emotion, brotherhood, and memory. A space that celebrates light and shadow, while uniting hearts through the lens.
