Graciano Lopez Jaena Park in Infrared - Jaro District, Iloilo City, Philippines

 

 Infrared Photograph of the Graciano López Jaena Monument

Whenever I want to test new photography equipment, one of my favorite spots for a casual photo walk is Jaro Plaza. The town park offers a wealth of photo-worthy subjects: the historical buildings that frame its edges, the picturesque Jaro Cathedral with its iconic belfry, the monuments honoring national figures, and the lush greenery that softens the scene. With the ongoing renovations, the plaza continues to evolve, making each visit feel fresh and worth repeating.  

For this particular shot, the focus is on the monument of Graciano López Jaena (1856–1896) - a Filipino journalist, reformist, and national hero celebrated for his pivotal role in the Propaganda Movement against Spanish colonial rule. Born in Jaro, Iloilo, López Jaena remains a source of pride for the city, and his monument stands as a reminder of his enduring legacy.  

Technical Details  

• Date Taken: July 21, 2023  
• Location: Graciano López Jaena Park (Jaro Plaza), Jaro District, Iloilo City, Philippines  
• Camera: Sony DSC-F828 (unmodified), forced night-shot mode with magnet to release hot mirror filter  
• Filters: Hoya R72 infrared filter, Polaroid Variable ND filter  
• Shutter Speed: 1/2000 seconds  
• Aperture: f/2.2  
• ISO: 64