photos of cambodia photography travel 1

A small country with a big history, Cambodia’s story is both magnificent and tragic. In a series of images, travel photographer Todd Weselake focuses on what life is like today in this resilient kingdom.

On paper, Cambodia’s numbers are pretty unique; at 181,035 sq km (69,898 sq mi) it’s one of the smallest countries in Asia, boasting a population of ~15m. On the ground, that’s ~83 people per square kilometre; however, owing to the Khmer Rouge’s brutal rule, more than 70 per cent of those Khmers are under the age of 30. And, although young, over 95% of the population affiliates with the Buddhist way of life. Which make sense, as their legendary temples continue to provide a touchstone of national identity — Angkor Wat being the most world-renowned.

Of course, I wanted to see what these numbers looked like –– to experience them off the page.

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

Throughout its long history, Cambodia has fought to maintain its identity, from French colonization, the Vietnam War, and the Khmer Rouge. Yet, its people have a welcoming reputation and wear ear-to-ear smiles. More than anything, I wanted to see how this unceasing resiliency shaped a nation.

So I travelled there, camera in hand, in an effort to tell the story of how 15m people live proudly today, folding in centuries of history while maintaining a distinct culture.

Taking a tuk tuk around is a must.

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

In Southeast Aisa, durian fruit is known as the “King of Fruits,” but it sure doesn’t smell like royalty. Consider yourself warned.

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

Visiting Angkor Wat is a must when in Cambodia. Get there early, before the heat of the day.

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

Although Angkor Wat is the most well-known temple in the Siem Reap area, there actually are hundreds in the region. You’ll need at least one full day to take a small sampling in.

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

The fishing villages on Tonle Sap Lake wait for the rainy season. With no water, there is no rice production or fishing.

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

The increasing dryness of the dry seasons is putting a lot of stress on these villages that rely on agriculture.

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

To know Cambodia’s story, its important to visit some war museums and prison camps. They reveal a dark, yet very real, past.

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

Phnom Penh. The capital of Cambodia is alive, and full of places to go and sights to see.

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

The markets in Southeast Asia never disappoint, and those in Cambodia are no different!

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

Oh, the traffic!

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

You can’t visit Cambodia without going to one kick-boxing match…

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

The street food. Inclusive, with your choice of insects!

photos of cambodia photography travel 1

Time to cross the border into Vietnam. Stay tuned for that blog post, coming soon!

photos of cambodia photography travel 1