Last night, I decided to do a photo walk around Aljunied again, and I realized how this area has quietly become one of my favorite places for street photography. There is just something about Aljunied that feels very comfortable to me. Maybe it is the steady flow of people, the mix of old and new architecture, or the way the streets always seem alive without feeling too overwhelming. Whatever it is, this place keeps pulling me back.
What made last night even more interesting was the sky. It looked dramatic in a way that instantly made me want to go out and shoot. The clouds had that soft but moody character, and the blue hour tones were making the buildings and streets look more cinematic than usual. Since the weather was cooperating, I quickly took a bicycle ride to Aljunied. It did not take long before I reached the MRT station, parked my bicycle, and started walking with my camera.
One of the first things that caught my attention again was the Aljunied MRT station itself. I always find it visually impressive. Nowadays, many MRT stations are underground, so stations like Aljunied have a very distinct presence. The continuous arches supporting the roof give it a rhythm that feels both functional and artistic. Surrounded by buildings that are mostly boxy, rectangular, and straightforward in design, the station stands out even more. It feels like a landmark that gives this part of the neighborhood its own identity.
Another detail that I always notice here is the sheer number of parked bicycles. The rows of bicycles outside the station were already enough to become a subject on their own. It says a lot about the residents in the area. People here clearly make good use of bicycles, and I really like seeing that. With fuel prices going up and city movement becoming more practical, it is nice to see more people choosing a simpler and healthier way to travel. In a way, the bicycle parking area tells its own story about the rhythm of daily life in Aljunied.
As I continued walking, I found myself drawn to the traditional shophouses once again. These buildings are among the reasons why I enjoy this neighborhood so much. They have so much character, especially when placed beside newer developments and modern commercial buildings. Their preserved facades, old staircases, faded walls, and charming windows create a contrast that makes the streets feel layered and alive. It is amazing that these structures are still standing and still part of everyday urban life. You can really feel the effort of preservation here, and I think that adds so much soul to the district.
I also enjoyed how the lighting changed the mood of the area. Some corners felt nostalgic, while others looked almost cinematic. Even simple street views became more interesting because of the sky and the soft glow of the evening. This is the kind of photo walk that reminds me why I love wandering around with a camera. It is not always about finding the grandest landmark. Sometimes, it is about being present, noticing the small details, and seeing familiar places in a slightly different way.
By the time I wrapped up my walk, I felt that familiar mix of tiredness and satisfaction. Exploring the streets through photography and taking a few video clips always gives me that sense of achievement. It makes the walk feel productive, meaningful, and worth every step.
Aljunied really delivered again last night, and I am glad I took advantage of the dramatic sky while it lasted.
See you on my next street photography adventure!
