Muscat: The Dhofar Governorate, adorned in its vibrant autumnal attire, exudes majesty and splendor, attracting photographers of all levels—professionals, amateurs, and creatives alike—from both within and outside the Sultanate of Oman during this season. These individuals endeavor with a meticulous attention to detail and unwavering determination to capture the most exquisite and flawless moments, aiming to immortalize them within the photographic archives of their most significant creative endeavors. The autumn season serves as the ideal backdrop for this pursuit.
Photographer Saeed bin Muslim Al Marhoon, a fervent admirer of Omani landscapes, dedicates each year to showcasing the beauty of various locations and the diversity of awe-inspiring vistas that the season offers. He remarks, "The Dhofar autumn season is a perfect time for photography, providing an array of options. The expansive green carpet, the gentle fog enveloping mountain peaks, and the vibrant interplay of colors in the scenes create photographs that are truly unique."
Al Marhoun elaborates, "The harmonious blend of colors has presented me with unparalleled opportunities to refine my photographic skills over the years. Each photographic journey enriches my collection, broadens my understanding, and deepens my respect for nature."
Adnan Bashir Bait Dahish posits that the autumn season presents a plethora of photographic subjects, appealing to both professionals and amateurs, as well as nature enthusiasts from both within and beyond the Sultanate of Oman, due to the variety of natural landscapes, including mountains, waterfalls, springs cascading from the peaks, and verdant plains.
Ayad bin Mohammed Al Yafei notes, "The autumn season offers a unique chance to capture and preserve the natural beauty, alongside documenting aspects of Omani traditions that are intertwined with the season, ensuring their legacy for future generations."
Al Yafei further states, "In recent years, the advent of aerial photography through drones has revolutionized the field, enabling the capture of high-resolution images and video clips. This advancement, coupled with the use of sophisticated cameras and a diverse fleet of aircraft, has facilitated the documentation of natural sites that were previously inaccessible."
Abdullah bin Ahmed Al Maashani describes the Khareef season in Dhofar Governorate as a pinnacle opportunity for photographers, heralded as one of the most enchanting and picturesque seasons. For him, this season represents an unparalleled chance to capture sweeping panoramic images that resonate deeply with the audience.
Al Maashani disclosed to us his top priorities for visiting and photographing natural sites, stating, "Wadi Darbat, the peak of Jabal Samhan, Ain Jarziz, the Iftalqut area, and the vista from Jabal Shaat are among my favorite destinations for photography. These locations are distinguished by their varied landscapes, which offer ample opportunities for capturing expansive panoramic shots. Additionally, the presence of cascading waterfalls, lush greenery, and expansive vistas provides ideal backdrops for photographs that demand the photographer's readiness to seize the perfect moment at any given time. Furthermore, these sites present the opportunity to create remarkable photographic effects."
Hanan Adel Yaqoub from Kuwait expressed, "The Dhofar Governorate, particularly during the autumn season, stands as one of the most enchanting natural locales that draw photographers and nature enthusiasts globally for over seven years. I am particularly eager to visit Dhofar Governorate during this period, not merely as a photographer with a passion for nature but also as an individual in search of psychological solace, tranquility, and mental clarity. This region, with its blend of heritage, authenticity, natural beauty, and familial warmth, offers an ideal setting for relaxation and appreciation of nature's splendor."
A multitude of perspectives and varied experiences among a group of photographers and nature aficionados highlighted the common appreciation for the beauty and uniqueness of this cherished location in Oman. Here, and throughout the country, the natural cycles of sunrise and sunset, along with the rich tapestry of historical and cultural narratives, present a wealth of stories waiting to be captured by artists photographers who possess the skill to interpret and immortalize these moments in a manner that respects the grandeur of time and the splendor of the landscape.