Sai Wan Swimming Shed

This photo is of the Sai Wan Swimming Shed in Victoria Harbor. You can easily access this location via car or by public transportation. If driving, navigate to the point referenced in the GPS coordinates, and park along the side of the road on Victoria Rd. There is a rugged, somewhat steep path visible from the road that leads down to the watershed. From there, you have several viewpoints of the dock. I took this photo from the end of the dock, looking out towards the water. If you visit early in the morning, generally between 7 AM and 9 AM, you'll often see locals going for their daily swim. Be respectful of their privacy and don't disturb them — if you'd like them to be a subject in your shot, always ask for permission first. By public transport from Central: - Take the Dark Blue Line to Kennedy Town Station - Take Exit A on Rock Hill St. There is a bus station directly outside - Take minibus Green Line 58 for four stops, to Caritas Jockey Club Hostel Mount David - Walk northeast a few steps down the road until you see the staircase down to the swimming shed

The Sai Wan Swimming Shed is suitable for photography year round.

I recommend photographing the Sai Wan Swimming Shed in the early morning, as this is when the early bird swimmers come out to take a dip in the ocean. The light is also beautiful at this time, as the rising sun cascades over Victoria Harbor.

Remember to be respectful of the swimmers and their privacy. Always ask for permission if you'd like to have them model in your shot.

Try centering the dock in the middle of the frame, and allow ample negative space in your composition for breathing room. This will cause the eye to anchor at the bottom of the photo, while still capturing plenty of visual interest from the texture of the water.

Be patient, especially if the location is crowded — it's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike! There are plenty of perspectives to find along the swimming shed, so if you have your heart set on a specific shot, be diligent and you'll eventually discover something exciting and unique. The pier is excellent for people-watching!

If you continue up the road, you can follow the Mount Davis Path, which contains a wealth of dilapidated ruins of World War II barracks amongst the trees.