No doubt, a lot of excitement is always generated by having one’s images featured in Picture Perfect. Your happiness is really also a source of joy for this columnist.

Of course, I cannot deny that not all images submitted to this column have seen print. I do have to exercise some judgement on what comes out in this limited space.

Some have seen their images on this column more than once. It is always very elating to see readers progress in their efforts. These enthusiasts seriously experiment with new subjects, try various ways to shoot, and use different tools to process or finish their images.

Now to today’s featured readers.

Raniel Jose Castañeda of Sta. Ana, Manila describes himself as "a photo enthusiast who loves to travel around in different places and share my passion in travel photography." He writes that he has been a regular reader of Picture Perfect for two years where informative articles have "motivated and inspired" him to become a better photographer. This professional communications engineer always lugs his DSLR along on various travels where he enjoys shooting "beautiful places and people." Today, Raniel shows his images from his recent trips to the agricultural areas of Benguet and Ifugao.

Photo hobbyist and graphic artist Doms Valentin writes that his passion for art started way back in elementary where he "fortunately won several awards" in drawing contests. But after being introduced to photography almost a year ago, he says that "I found myself into another craft of art doing pictures, and capturing moments and landscapes." From using a point-and-shoot at first, he eventually acquired a DSLR. "It is really fulfilling to see my works and share them with my friends and family," says Doms. On his rest days from call center work, he attends seminars with other photographers and some masters. Doms gratefully acknowledges the photographers from DPP and EON photography clubs who have inspired and taught him a lot about photography. For more of Doms Valentin’s photos, see http://weasly023.multiply.com and http://flickr.com/domsvalentin.

Regular contributor Allan Barredo once again shares with us his travel photography and new discoveries. He writes: "I recently was able to explore another side of Pangasinan, literally another side. Most folks associate Pangasinan with the Hundred Islands in Alaminos and the fine beaches of Bolinao in the north. The west coast of Pangasinan, along the towns of Infanta, Dasol, and Burgos, is relatively untouched by tourism. Few are probably aware that the beaches there are pristine and with fine powdery sand. And the best thing is that you don’t have to compete with hordes of tourists for prime spots. Most days you have the beach all to yourself."

From Dasol, Allan reveals that "you can have your own island for a day in Colibra Island (also called Snake Island because it is home to a sizable population of tugasi or coral snake), or snorkel in the emerald green waters of Sitio Balinmanok – with a shipwreck to spice up your snorkeling experience. There are rock walls, blow holes, and caves to explore along the northwestern shores. The rock towers of Timapog na Bato in Brgy. Iliw-iliw in Burgos are the favorite of the locals there."

And as dusk falls, "the beach front stirs with communal activity as the locals cast their nets just a few meters from shore. They are even friendly enough to let you help with the pulling of the nets. As evening

Announcement: For those who took part in the World Pinhole Photography Day last April 27, scan the image and upload it to the www.pinholeday.org website where it will become part of this premier gallery of lenless photography.

Pangea Day starts at 18:00 GMT on May 10, 2008 (2:00 a.m. May 11 RP time). Locations in Cairo, Kigali, London, Los Angeles, Mumbai, and Rio de Janeiro will be linked for a live program of powerful films, live music, and visionary speakers. The entire program will be broadcast – in seven languages – to millions of people worldwide through the internet, television, and mobile phones.

The 24 short films to be featured have been selected from an international competition that generated more than 2,500 submissions from over 100 countries. The films were chosen based on their ability to inspire, transform, and allow us see the world through another person’s eyes.

For comments, suggestions, or simply to share an image or idea, email rfyparedes@yahoo.com.