Yafiq Yusman

@yafiqyusman

Meet Yafiq Yusman (@yafiqyusman), a self-taught mobile photographer known for his creative use of reflection and symmetry. Born and bred in Singapore, he's a full-time freelance photographer and social media marketer, and one half of the Yusman twins, alongside his brother @yaisyusman. Meet Yafiq Yusman (@yafiqyusman), a self-taught mobile photographer known for his creative use of reflection and symmetry. Born and bred in Singapore, he's a full-time freelance photographer and social media marketer, and one half of the Yusman twins, alongside his brother @yaisyusman.
You’ve been visiting Gardens by the Bay for a while now — what keeps bringing you back? Is there a time of day, season, or spot in the Gardens that feels especially yours? Tell us about it.

I am a photographer who loves architecture and Gardens by the Bay has always been one of my go to places to shoot, especially during sunset. The evening light, the cooler weather, it is just right for a comfortable shoot. The plus point of heading there during sunset is that, if you wait a little longer, you also get to experience the Gardens at night. My favourite spot to shoot is the second floor deck overlooking the Supertrees. That "Instagrammable spot" is popular now, but my favourite way to photograph it is by capturing people on the OCBC Skyway against the skyline during sunset.

Gardens by the Bay was just voted No. 3 Top Attraction in the World on Tripadvisor. When you saw that, what went through your mind — did it surprise you, or did it feel entirely right? In your own words, what makes the Gardens extraordinary?
Honestly, I think the Gardens deserve the number one spot. Why? Because of its uniqueness. I was an architecture student and I have always admired unique structures that combine beauty with purpose and functionality. Beyond its stunning design, the Gardens' sustainable features are really remarkable. The Supertrees are iconic, and seeing them should be on everyone's bucket list. Additionally, the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest are must visit attractions that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.
Have you ever brought a friend or visitor from overseas to the Gardens? What was that like — what did you show them first? If someone who had never been to Singapore asked you “should I go to Gardens by the Bay?”, what would you tell them?

Of course, I brought them to my favourite sunset spot. But the highlight has to be Garden Rhapsody. Lying on the ground and looking up at the illuminated Supertrees while the music plays is such a unique way to experience the Gardens. And yes, everyone who visits Singapore should visit Gardens by the Bay. There is so much to see, so starting your visit early is definitely not a bad idea.

We'd love for you to share 3 of your favourite photos of the Gardens. For each one, tell us: when was it taken, what drew you to that moment, and why does it still mean something to you?
Gardens by the bay

The Reflection of Love

It was taken at the former Future of Us exhibition structure, which is now a part of Floral Fantasy. It is a reflection of the structure. I rotated the photo 90 degrees to the right to reveal the heart shape. It is all about the art of noticing. This photo means something to me because love can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places, as long as you open your heart to see it.

Gardens by the bay

The Pano Does It

It was taken in 2019. I used a technique I discovered where I could capture a wider scene using the panorama mode on my phone. I started experimenting with this before smartphones had ultra wide lenses. This photo is special to me because I managed to capture so many Supertrees in a single frame, while also placing Marina Bay Sands almost perfectly in the centre.

Gardens by the bay

The Golden Hour

This photo was taken in 2021 from my favourite spot. I was waiting for a single person to walk by. It was challenging because there were always many people on the Skyway. I managed to capture someone standing alone, taking a photo, with a completely unexpected flock of birds flying past. Bonus: it all happened during sunset.