Hi, I’m Tia (Balinese Photographer). I really loved to travel, not just for the view but also for coffee. For me, the heart of every journey is found in two things: a perfect cup of local coffee and the profound connections we share as humans.
I carry my camera everywhere because I’m endlessly fascinated by the language of love. I live to document those raw, intimate moments that define us as a human. But my passion goes beyond the people I already know. I find a unique magic in the unexpected connections made with strangers in random places. I believe every face has a story worth telling. Whether it’s a lifelong bond or a new connection with a stranger, I aim to look through my lens and reveal their true colors.
The Serendipity of a Morning Brew
It was one of those slow mornings at Balco Coffee, right in the heart of Denpasar, where the coffee is just as good as the atmosphere. I was minding my own business when a tourist at the next table asked the barista for directions to a specific temple. The barista just shrugged with a polite, “I have no idea, sorry! I don’t actually live around here.”
Being a local, I couldn’t help myself. I jumped into the conversation, because I knew exactly where she needed to go. As it turns out, she was staying in Sanur, which is literally right where I live.
We hit it off immediately, swapped Instagram. And I realized my new friend Nihayet, was an actress from Turkey. While her English was limited, her energy was magnetic, she’s so kind! We didn’t need a shared language to know we wanted to create something beautiful together. It’s amazing how a simple cup of coffee and a little bit of local knowledge can turn a stranger into a new friend.
We explored the hotel grounds and hit the beach. We spent the session capturing her radiant energy against Bali’s tropical backdrop, letting the golden light do most of the talking. Even though Sanur is famous for its sunrises, doing an evening shoot felt like a hidden gem. We still got those gorgeous sunset colors reflecting off the water. Proof that you don’t always have to chase the dawn to find the perfect light.
We didn’t need many words to understand each other. My camera and the scenery did all the talking. The day ended with her treating me to a heartfelt meal at the Hyatt Regency, a beautiful reminder of how Bali brings kind souls together from across the world.
