SPOTLIGHT: George Cabig

An Unassuming Photography Powerhouse

by Alfred Uy Bomping

I came across George last July at the newly built UP College of Medicine, Henry Sy Sr. Hall, where pictures of Zone V Camera Club graced its walls and were signed by their respective artists . George was present in his usual simple unpretentious self, belying his numerous achievements with only his trademark beret that gives him away.

We talked about which pictures on display were our favorites and how they gave character to the building and contributed to a less stressful environment for the students. I told George that we would like to feature him on Spotlight, but he declined saying others are more deserving. After some persuasion, I got him to say yes so that more members get to be inspired with his humble beginnings, his impressive work and ultimate success. Here is the account of an unassuming photography powerhouse.

As a kid, George was already interested in drawing. In high school, his literature teacher took notice of his talent and taught him oil painting. His well-off classmate gave him an oil painting kit, allowing George to paint landscapes he copied from photographs. He eventually went on to paint on site, usually mountains and farmlands. He got frustrated when he could not finish his work because it was getting late, and he needed to go home.

He borrowed a small Kodak 110 film camera, started taking photos of landscapes, and printed them to 3R size so he could take his time to paint them as he had done before. This started his interest in photography. However, he could not afford to buy a camera because back then, they were inaccessibly expensive and considered a luxury. During his college years, he stopped painting and taking photos until a classmate lent him a Yashica SLR camera to take pictures at the Luneta during lunch breaks. After he landed a job, George finally bought a camera, a Kodak 110 film camera, similar to what got him interested in photography.

George co-founded the Konica Camera Club, and during numerous exhibits, he saw the work of different clubs from all over the country. The quality of photographs by Zone V Camera Club made a notable impression on him. So much so that when the Konica Camera Club disbanded, he decided to join Zone V in 1985. It was also convenient as he lived near the monthly meeting venue- Aristocrat Quezon Blvd.

Photos above by George Cabig

Many memorable and good experiences graced him in his years with the club, but according to George, this one was unforgettable. When he first attended a Zone V club meeting, walked in, not knowing anyone, he was shocked to witness members talking loudly and almost shouting. The awkward feeling makes him want to go home. Fortunately, he was welcomed by the late honorary member, Mang Sonny San Agustin. I am sure his fatherly demeanor and trademark “alam mo noong araw ” reassured George that everything was fine.

The first Zone V contest theme George submitted was Pairs using Cibachrome slide transparency film. Aside from sending it to Hong Kong, there is only one place in Manila where you can process this film – an expensive and complex procedure. His entry got failing marks from the judges, but he found comfort that because it is a slide film, Zone V terror emcee Dr. Ed Clemente couldn’t tear it as he had done many times with prints.

Photo by George Cabig

One of George’s iconic images in a Zone V monthly contest is his self-portrait. The picture is that of a shattered mirror with his image in one of the many broken pieces. He said his favorite part of monthly meetings is the Waiter’s choice award. Similar to our current Member’s cup, the waiters discussed their choice for the winning photograph among themselves. The winner got to take home the untouched food from the meeting.

Like most, if not all photographers, we take inspiration from the work of other photographers and George is no different. For documentary and travel, Dick Baldovino, lan Lloyd, and Eric Meola are the ones that have influenced him the most. Within Zone V, it’s Jun Perez for photojournalism, Butch Umali for darkroom technique, and Angelo Amistoso for using positive space.

Photo above (L-R): George Cabig, with his mentors, Noli Yamsuan and Ed Santiago

Being an educator himself and knowing the importance of continuous learning and of being ahead of the curve, George attended numerous workshops and seminars not limited to photography. This broad knowledge proved useful when he found himself working for an advertising agency and later did freelance jobs.

He won numerous local and international photo contests. His pictures are published in prestigious magazines such as Philippine Airline’s Mabuhay magazine, Cebu Pacific’s Smile magazine, Metro magazine, and In- Golf magazine to name a few. He was also actively involved in various photography organizations and was the chairman for the 25th anniversary of Photoworld in 2012.

Nowadays, George works on 2 photo book projects and is active in various activities organized by the Federation of Philippine Photographer Foundation such as giving lectures, leading photo tours, and teaching basic photography to a new generation of aspiring artists.

When asked, what is his advice for the current batch of Zone V’ers? He replied, “enjoy your passion in photography and the camaraderie at ZVCC.” How should you take a photo? “Kahit gaano kaganda ang mga kuha mo kung walang kuwento walang kuwenta.”