Holy Grain

Hi, my name is Muhammad Ichsan Syarif, but most people just call me Banjo — that’s my nickname. I’m Indonesian, currently living and working in Ireland. Photography is one of my biggest passions. I also enjoy playing sports like football and tennis when I have the chance. Besides that, I’m a big fan of music and video games, mostly MOBA and RPG genres.

Photography first came into my life when I was a kid and saw my father’s point-and-shoot film camera. I still have it, though unfortunately, it’s no longer repairable. That little “toestel” holds so much history for me. I spent six years living in Thailand before moving to Ireland, and that’s when I really started shooting more seriously. Once I got a job, I was finally able to afford several cameras, including the classic Olympus PEN E-PL2, which quickly became a favorite.

Before settling on the Olympus, I researched many options. I watched tons of YouTube videos and eventually chose the PEN E-PL2 because of its compact size and vintage feel — not a modern, high-tech camera. The interchangeable lens system was a big plus, giving me flexibility for different types of photography. And the Art mode, especially the Grainy Film effect, totally won me over. Luckily, I found someone in Bangkok selling the camera with a 17mm F2.8 and a 40-150mm M.Zuiko lenses. I also got two batteries and an external Olympus flash, but I accidentally broke the hotshoe. Oops!

I really “grew up” in photography by taking pictures on the street. For me, the street is full of models, moments, and stories waiting to be told. I’m not much of a director, so I prefer to let everything happen naturally. That’s why street photography fits me so well. Whenever the weather is good (which, in Ireland, is a bit rare), I spend my free time walking around, snapping random shots. The Olympus PEN E-PL2 is perfect for this. Small enough to carry comfortably, yet reliable. Paired with the 17mm M.Zuiko lens, it’s a great “weapon” for hunting interesting scenes.

Most of my shooting is done with film cameras like the Minolta X700, Nikon L35AF, Ricoh XR2, and Konica I. For video, I use the Ricoh Super 8 800z (though rarely, since film is pricey) and the Canon Legria F200s. Judging by my gear, you can probably guess: I love grainy pictures. The Olympus PEN’s Grainy Film Art mode nails that aesthetic perfectly. The camera takes a bit of time to process the file, but I shoot film, so “patience” is my middle name. The results may disappoint, and with practice, you’ll get the hang of it. Or just use Program Mode for easy shots.

Bangkok is a city with an “Exotic” vibe, if I had to pick one word. The old architecture blends beautifully with modern buildings. The people and their daily activities offer endless photo opportunities. Using my Olympus PEN E-PL2, I captured many scenes that mix city life, people, and architecture.

In contrast, Dublin feels more “Serene,” thanks to its Roman-style buildings and quieter streets. It’s less crowded than Bangkok, which I appreciate. The weather here—sunny or cloudy—adds a peaceful backdrop to my photowalks. I usually avoid the busy city center, preferring quieter spots or weekday visits when the crowds are thin. I’m excited to keep exploring and shooting here, and hopefully in other parts of Europe soon!

Although traveling and photographing abroad is thrilling, I truly want to shoot more in Indonesia. I believe the streets, moments, and people back home have so much to offer. I can’t wait for the day I can return and capture it all again.

Like I said, I’m not much of a director, I just like to wait for moments to happen naturally on the street, even if it means missing one or waiting longer for the next.

I rarely edit my photos. When I do, it’s usually with the Photos app on my iPhone. Sometimes I use Lightroom or Snapseed if I want more control over colors or saturation.

You can see more of my work on Instagram @ichsanbanjo. I’m also planning to print some photos soon, to appreciate my own work more.

Photography for me isn’t about fancy setups or staged scenes, it’s about being patient and letting life unfold naturally in front of my lens. Whether it’s the vibrant streets of Bangkok, the calm atmosphere of Dublin, or the bustling corners of Indonesia waiting to be explored, every picture tells a story. I shoot not for others, but for the joy it brings me, and I hope you find a little inspiration in my journey too.