Behind the Scenes – Lives of These Unsung Heroes is a coffee table book by Singapore author and photographer IAN POH. In this travel photo book, he explores a very different topics, from where the fruit and coffee on our tables come from, to what it takes to deliver an unforgettable stay at a luxury resort. Find out more about his Behind the Scenes book – and where you can purchase it!
Tell us about the stories in your book.
For the stories about durian and melon farmers in Malaysia, I documented their daily activities in both photos and videos. My story on coffee chronicles the journey of how coffee beans are processed and harvested by imagining how the bean itself would perceive its handlers.
The two hospitality stories are a little different. One of them is from an extended stay at a serviced residence, where I shadowed each person for a period of time to gain a deep understanding of their individual roles and responsibilities. The other is based in a resort, where I followed the operations director for 24 hours to experience the role and get to know the people he interacted with daily.
What inspired you to write the book?
My day job as a regional director in a global agricultural company takes me off the beaten track to third world countries, where I experience the daily struggles that the farmers endure to ensure a constant supply of fruits to our table. This inspired me to share their story.
Prior to the pandemic, I used to spend approximately 300 to 330 days annually in the skies. I was practically living out of a suitcase. Then, I found myself grounded in Malaysia and never expected that I would call it home for two years. I met the family who managed Lanson Place, the serviced residence where I was staying, and learned about the pains and dedication they took to ensure every guest had a magnificent stay.
In the case of The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, I’ve encountered many hotels and resorts like this one that are unique in their own ways. Each time, I wonder how these experiences are created or how the team brings such intimate experiences to life.
What would you like readers to take away from your Behind the Scenes book?
I feel that people’s perception of travel is akin to a beautifully staged ballet. We’re completely focused on snapping meticulously curated photographs for the ’gram. This makes us forget to enjoy the unscripted moments, causing us to miss out on the spontaneous joy of the dance itself.
I hope that through my photos and words as a Singapore author, people will gain a more profound appreciation for these unsung heroes. Though they often hidden behind the scenes, they play an essential role in both the hospitality and agricultural industries. For them, it’s less about making money but more about making a real difference.
What will your next book be about?
I’m currently working on two books. The first is a coffee table book that will take readers on a safari journey deep within the African bush through photos of the majestic game park animals in their natural habitat. It contains both heartwarming and hair-raising images that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
My second is a travel photo book. It will treat readers to a culinary feast for the eyes in the heart of Thailand. I trace the origins of 10 original Thai dishes, ranging from fine dining to street food, to the suburbs where they first began.
Behind the Scenes – Lives of These Unsung Heroes is available at Amazon and Shopee.
This article about this Singapore author’s Behind the Scenes book first appeared in the September 2024 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe so you never miss a copy! Keen to read more? Head to our Living in Singapore section for the best things to do in Singapore and read our latest City Guide here for free!
