As they usually say, “unplanned trips are the best.” Like the Quezon beach trip that was decided in a spur-of-the-moment, going to Nasugbu was also ever-spontaneous.

We would’ve gone to Boracay, as we snagged a cheap PhP 5,000 worth of round-trip airfare. But with all the inconsistencies of the government in announcing lockdown restrictions, we decided to let it go and hop on a road trip down south.

Unconventional yet thrilling

Going to Pansol, Laguna, or an overlooking resort in Tanay, Rizal was one of the options to consider. However, we found ourselves driving further extemporaneously.

After two to three hours, we reached Nasugbu, Batangas. Along the way, we discovered a cool, overlooking view of Batangas at night, right before you pass through Tagaytay.

Unpack things, not feelings

At exactly 8:32 PM, we reached our destination. The first thing I did was unpack my stuff. Feelings? You can unpack it later after a late yet sumptuous dinner.

That camera cutout looks more acceptable vs Mi 10T Pro’s hump

I tested Xiaomi 11T Pro’s photo prowess by taking a photo of that figurine inside the room with just that artificial light around.

Surprisingly, it looked good despite not fully embracing its overall camera performance. I also took a quick mandatory FFTB mirror selfie.

I like how that Depth of Field (DoF) separated me from my surroundings. Maybe the macro camera has its perks after all.

Night | Ultra-Wide vs Wide

I went outside to get some breezy night air while I let my hair dry. Unfortunately, beaches are closed past 9 in the evening.

Night | Ultra-Wide vs Wide

While sitting at a chaise lounge, I also captured photos of meat-grilling sessions. The Xiaomi 11T Pro’s Night Mode did a good job, especially with the appearance of fire and smoke. Very unlikely with how most night photos turned out in my review.

Portrait ON | Portrait OFF

I also used it to capture these selfies sans beauty mode — which look good for my liking.

We all need that ✨ Vitamin Sea ✨

We decided to spend the rest of the night with some booze — until my friends got knocked out. I was able to stay awake and witness how the dark sky transitioned into a picturesque, beach view.

There was no sunrise view since Nasugbu is situated on the western side. The saving grace is that sunsets look magical in this town.

Ultra-Wide vs Wide

The resort looks antiquated; brimming with history among its guests over the years. Thanks to that ultra-wide lens, it was able to capture the place clearly. And without the obstruction of crowds.

It’s probably the best part of this quick getaway: only a few people in sight.

There’s a stainless steel gate with a stone arch paving the way towards the sandy beach of Nasugbu. Xiaomi 11T Pro’s Auto White Balance (AWB) might actually lean more into the warmer side. But notice how overly-warm my sandal-fie was?

Ultra-wide vs Wide vs 2x digital zoom

Going further, there’s also a wooden gate near the beach. It’s suppose to deter unwanted visitors coming from other resorts. I had a small talk with the resort owner and he shared how low tides are more apparent this season. Sea waves in high tides would reach as far as the stainless, steel gate we crossed earlier.

Just like in my review, the inconsistency of the ultra-wide and wide lens can be seen especially with that less bright shot. Zooming in past 1x means relying on digital cropping via its main sensor. Little did I know that doing so loses that warm White Balance.

Unpredictable like the ocean waves

The Xiaomi 11T Pro’s camera performance is pretty much unpredictable.

Night UWA | Xiaomi 11T Pro vs Mi 10T Pro

While the 11T Pro’s shot looked better because it’s brighter and sharper, that’s actually the camera software’s over-processing. The night shot taken with the Mi 10T Pro was closer to what I saw in person.

Wide | Xiaomi 11T Pro vs Mi 10T Pro

Fast forward to the next day, this was how it looked like as early as six in the morning. Astonishingly, the beach shot of the 11T Pro was too cool. Not “too cool” though in terms of quality. The Mi 10T Pro delivered a better shot.

UWA | Xiaomi 11T Pro vs Mi 10T Pro

But when you switch to that even wider Ultra-Wide Angle (UWA) lens, the Xiaomi 11T Pro was once again inconsistent AF.

2x | Xiaomi 11T Pro vs Mi 10T Pro

After some time, fishing boats started to appear on the shoreline. I then tried tapping the 2x option for that zoomed shot. The photo turned out way too blue.

Wide | Xiaomi 11T Pro vs Mi 10T Pro

Looking around, there’s a fancier resort right next to where we stayed. I took a shot and the warmer White Balance and better Dynamic Range saved the Xiaomi 11T Pro this time.

HDR UWA | Xiaomi 11T Pro vs Mi 10T Pro

Xiaomi 11T Pro is pretty consistent in having inconsistent wins and losses. The Xiaomi 11T Pro wins this one due to the preservation of image details and better High Dynamic Range.

HDR Wide | Xiaomi 11T Pro vs Mi 10T Pro

Ending this with the last photo before we went home. Not much of a difference but the bluish tint in the sky is evident on the 11T Pro versus the Mi 10T Pro’s less-vibrant sky.

SEE ALSO: Xiaomi 11T Pro vs Mi 10T Pro: Camera shootout

Spicing up this sea-scapade getaway

As GadgetMatch’s Associate Creative Producer, post-processing (or color grading) shots is also part of my job. While we barely post color-graded photo samples on this website unless clearly stated, this section is clearly dedicated to some photos taken with the Xiaomi 11T Pro that were modified through a photo-grading app.

Shots by @vincenzlee | Post-processed in VSCO

Like what you saw earlier, the RAW versions of these photos looked so bluish to the point that I was like in Avatar. Luckily, post-processing apps were made and I was able to improve it by applying a preset and adjusting all the necessary camera settings such as temperature/White Balance, highlights, shadows, contrast, among others.

Post-processed in VSCO

I can’t miss another beach photo this time. I asked my friend to take photos of me in this weird all-black get-up.

Post-processed in VSCO

Then, I just tried to write letters on the sand and made it a candid-looking shot. My friend followed after me (which kinda looked like she was mocking me lol).

Shots by @vincenzlee | Post-processed in VSCO

I then took over the Xiaomi 11T Pro and took more photos of her.

Shots by @vincenzlee | Post-processed in VSCO

This is a testament that bragging #NoFilter shots are senseless. Color-grading shots adds more life and story to your photos.

Shots by @vincenzlee | Post-processed in VSCO

I always tell people that camera angles play a huge part in photography. Just look at how my friend nailed the first shot compared to a regular photo shot from a distance.

Shots by @vincenzlee | Post-processed in VSCO

The blown out highlights and exposure of the original photos made it look less appealing. Lucky enough, I was able to salvage these photos through the power of color grading.

Shots by @vincenzlee | Post-processed in VSCO

Candid photos are simply the best for memory preservation. It makes you remember the moments more than the poses you’ve made in front of the camera.

Shots by @vincenzlee | Post-processed in VSCO

One thing I liked about the beach in Nasugbu is the firmer sand crystals despite having a mud-like color. Those in Unisan, Quezon had white sand but are actually rougher especially when you’re barefooted.

Shots by @vincenzlee | Post-processed in VSCO

But I do like the clearer blue water in Quezon. The one here in Nasugbu is far more brown just like the beach’s color. And as I remember my regrets of not being able to visit Boracay, it also reminded me how I badly miss the white sand plus the crystal clear and less salty water of the island.

Not sure if I’m the father or the big child of this circle 🤔

It might seem unfortunate, not to be able to visit Boracay during this pandemic. Being surrounded by two pairs of sweet honey bees doesn’t help either.

But, in all honesty, I enjoyed the company more instead of being awkward. Especially with the bond that we already formed. And yeah, I’m used to being single and alone (and no, this ain’t a sadb0i sentiment).

Certainly, unplanned trips are indeed the best.

All shots were taken using the Xiaomi 11T Pro with a mix of RAW and post-processed photos edited through VSCO.

Quick note

We made sure all of us were safe and COVID-19 free prior to going to the travel location. All of us are already fully vaccinated but still submitted the requirements needed for in-country travel. Face masks were still worn during the trip and were only removed for the sake of the photoshoot. Social distancing protocols were followed as well.

24 Hours is a series on GadgetMatch.com where we showcase our travels through a smartphone camera’s perspective. It’s also a documented guide on things to see and do in a city in case you happen to plan a trip there.

We all needed a break (or two) to wind down from all stressful work. With my last moments using the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra, I decided to join a trip with my high school buddies (whom I haven’t seen for more than a year) down to a farther part of the south in the Philippines’ biggest island.

Quite an unprepared trip

Our original plan back in June 2021 was to go to a beach resort in Nasugbu, Batangas — then something happened.

Heavy rains poured a week before our reservation date, but that wasn’t the main reason why we changed course. The infamous Taal Volcano seen from the popular City of Tagaytay had a phreatomagmatic eruption in the last week of June. Since then, the Alert Level quickly went from 2 to 3. It was hazardous and dangerous considering the amount of Sulfur Dioxide in the air.

Not wanting to risk ourselves being exposed to air contaminants, we decided to look for another location that isn’t that strict and is readily available. An unheard place in Quezon was the only choice. Being first-time travelers to Unisan, we didn’t know what to expect.

We weren’t fully prepared. After packing all of our stuff, we all met then let Waze (plus my map literacy) do the job to help us reach the farther part of Quezon.

It took over five hours traveling from Calamba, Laguna to our intended destination. Naturally, these included traffic, fast food, convenience store, and restroom breaks. There was also lack of internet data connection and direction confusion along the latter part of Lucena City. But we persevered and reached our destination.

Star-studded sky, literally

Touchdown, Unisan! Frankly, none of us expected that it’ll be a great place to stay. But the moment the stars showed up (including shooting stars or meteors in their scientific term), I was already astounded.

The water felt so cool to touch but it also looked clear even if it was pitch-black. The only thing that buzzed us was the series of lights seen from a distance. We just thought it was a shore-based plant/factory. After all, we’re looking at the other part of Marinduque — which is another province in a secluded island not directly connected to the part of Luzon.

A morning of cool breeze

While some of my friends had an early morning sleep after drinking all-night, I decided to just stay awake since I wasn’t feeling sleepy.

Funny thing was, some of my friends asked us to wake them up for the “sunrise” but as far as I know, the sunrise won’t be visible in this area since it’s facing west — and I was right.

While they were disappointed that there was no “sunrise” view, seeing the early morning view made my eyes and heart.

I also decided to take an early morning walk. Through the telephoto and wide lens of the Galaxy S21 Ultra, I was able to take the shots above. I didn’t fully soak the device though due to my fear of having water-resistance issues even if it has an IP68 rating. It still protected the phone while shooting an almost soaked shot of the boat to capture its reflection on the water.

…then it felt like it was a hot summer

After being awake for 36 hours straight, my mind and body decided to rest. Then, the scorching heat outside — alongside their loud noises and smell of hotdogs and grilled fish being cooked — woke me up.

To my surprise, my friends were able to visit the nearest market — which was several kilometers away — and cooked-up a feast for lunch. It felt more refreshing with a fresh Buko Juice (Coconut Juice). For dessert, there were some classic Pinipig and Cheese popsicles being sold by a vendor nearby.

But all before that, I ate some classic Pancit Canton with hard-boiled egg on top for early breakfast. My friends also gave me spoonfuls of their Tapsilog — a combination of Tapa and Itlog (sunny side-up egg). Even though I’m not a huge fan of pork, I still enjoyed it — especially because they’re free food. 😅

As obvious as it gets, I wasn’t really prepared for this set of groufies but for the sake of making memories, I had to show my face anyway.

My other three friends from the early morning shoot decided to sleep. This time, I decided to tag along since I was already energized to walk along the sandy shore again (after heavy rain poured for around 10 to 15 minutes).

Nothing’s too early for some photoshoot

I clearly know my main role in this group — to shoot lots (I mean lots) of photos. I was lazy to lug around my heavy DSLR so I decided to just shoot with the Galaxy S21 Ultra.

Three of my high school friends and I decided to take an early morning walk to discover what’s on the other part of the shore. This what I was talking about from the earlier section.

I was stoked upon seeing how clear the water was up close. From that point, my mind told me to take some photos of them along the sea. I was just as glad with how the Galaxy S21 Ultra performed as how my friends were with the results.

Of course, I had to ask a friend to take some photos of me, too. While I wasn’t certain about my friend’s photography skills, I just directed her to do the same style of shot I did for them. Fortunately, she managed to take a couple of “Instagrammable“ portraits (that I never posted because I don’t have that beach-perfect body).

Let the splashing begin!

After our satisfying lunch and some walk along with two of my friends, we decided to call the rest for the shoot they all have been waiting for.

The fast AF (autofocus) and shutter speed of the Galaxy S21 Ultra was able to take these studio-grade shots. Instructing my friends to just do their thing like the camera wasn’t there, I was able to take candid shots that also perfectly captured the motion of water.

With some color adjustments, I made the shots look more dramatic. The unedited shots were a little bit on the underexposed side since they’re all facing against the bright sky. Still, I was able to adjust the exposure without ruining the shots — even if they’re just photos with a JPG file format.

Even in a group shot like this, the Galaxy S21 Ultra managed. Not only it captured all of my friends, it also managed to preserve a candid-looking shot while still keeping all of them (plus the splashing water) in focus.

Unexpected breathtaking views

As the old saying goes, don’t judge the book by its cover. Upon seeing more breathtaking views, I immediately regretted how I underestimated what Unisan, Quezon had to offer.

My favorite pair of lenses are obviously the 3x and 10x telephoto lenses of the Galaxy S21 Ultra. Without them, I wouldn’t be able to capture these photographs (that I casually apply as my phone’s wallpaper). The iPhone I’ve been using for quite a while only has a single camera anyway.

Even these tropical-looking shots I captured above were taken from the zoom cameras of the Galaxy S21 Ultra. If you’re still not amazed, scroll below to see more.

Sunset straight out of a dream

It was this time of day when Unisan, Quezon truly looked magical. I tried color-grading it to depict how it really looked like in real life.

The color balance and saturation of the Galaxy S21 Ultra’s cameras were kind of inaccurate to begin with due to the environment.

The shots — taken using different lenses — perfectly preserved my memory of the sunset at Unisan. It looked surreal; as if I was dreaming. I almost cried since couldn’t believe I was there the whole time. Surely, no matter what type of lens you use, you can never go wrong with them.

I managed to take some transitioning shots too. From the pre-sunset phase to where the sun has fully set, the Galaxy S21 Ultra’s camera superiority still reigned all throughout. The last shot was taken with Night Mode on. Using regular mode already displayed bits of grain all around.

As the day came to an end, I quickly set up my tripod and mounted the Galaxy S21 Ultra. We made sure to preserve the memories of our quick beach getaway with silhouette shots along with the sunset.

All photos were taken using the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra and were post-processed using Adobe Lightroom and VSCO.

Quick note

Before our trip, we made sure all of us were safe and  COVID-19 negative. We submitted all of the required documents needed. Some of us were already vaccinated prior to the travel date, which was held last July 2021. Face masks during the trip were only removed for the sake of the photoshoot. Social distancing protocols were still followed.

24 Hours is a series on GadgetMatch.com where we showcase our travels through a smartphone camera’s perspective. It’s also a documented guide on things to see and do in a city in case you happen to plan a trip there.

Think and speak of Tagaytay, and a bunch of memories will spark a conversation between friends and strangers alike. The holiday town down south of Metro Manila has been a getaway from the hustle-bustle of the city.

Tagaytay speaks of wonders — the classic Bulalô, overlooking sceneries, karaoke nights, and the sight of the majestic Taal Volcano. A heartwarming reminder that there’s always a place for you in this getaway town, regardless of your emotions.

A trip down south

In the midst of the government’s poor response to the pandemic, many industries were forced to adapt to continue their business operations. When I got a call from a friend to help with their social enterprise’s initiatives in Tagaytay, I said yes without hesitation.

After several signed permits, we took a trip down south. We took the Santa Rosa exit in Laguna and we were greeted by a gloomy sky warning us of an upcoming rainstorm.

Before the skies sent a downpour, I took a selfie on my latest daily driver — the ASUS Zenfone 8. After all, cloudy skies make for the perfect diffuser. Without the sun’s harsh lighting, your selfies will look balanced.

Moments later, a rainstorm occurred and it was my cue to take a nap.

I fell asleep the whole time we were in transit. When I woke up, we were already in Hollywood Subdivision where we’ll leave our bags.

It was a quiet neighborhood, although there are a few hotels and establishments around the area in case you need to grab a quick bite.

An overlooking, late lunch

After getting our bags settled in our place, we went to Green ATS restaurant along Tagaytay-Nasugbu Highway. Because when in Tagaytay, you must get a Bulalô.

Due to pandemic restrictions, a space that was formerly good for five is now limited to two people. We ordered Bulalô or Beef Marrow Stew — a beef dish with clear broth, leafy vegetables, and corn on the cob.

Apologies but there are no photos included. I’m not that millennial anymore: the one that takes a lot of time to snap a photo of food or even style it to look glamorous for his followers to see, even if he’s really hungry.

But I did take a selfie while waiting for the food. Hashtag priorities.

The spot we have has an overlooking view, although still at a distance. I used the maximum 8x digital zoom capability of the ASUS Zenfone 8 to try to capture the barren, exhausted state of Taal Volcano after its sudden phreatomagmatic eruption back in January 2020.

After we were done eating, we went to the balcony to bask in awe of a majestic scene. I used the wide-angle mode to capture its glory.

I also captured the scenery using the wide-angle mode in Panorama, as if I was an old uncle who suddenly learned how to use smartphones. Afterward, we proceeded to our friend’s program — wherein we weren’t allowed to take photos.

Another drive for dinner

It was already dusk when we got back to our place. I charged my phone since I was using the Zenfone 8 since the morning — mobile data, messaging, maps, and all.

It was around 7:30 in the evening when we went out for a drive to look for an open café so I can write and do a bit of my work. Since most establishments are closed, especially all Starbucks branches, my friend insisted to visit Breakfast at Antonio’s.

I was averse to the idea of having my dinner here. But I was convinced when we realized I can bring out my laptop and type peacefully here.

The pastries are to die for, at least for my friend who was an avid fan of this restaurant.

Shot on ASUS Zenfone 8 | Auto Mode

They serve appetizing ice cream as well, which is a trip to the bathroom in my case. Lactose intolerant kids don’t get to enjoy the fine things in life unless we have our pills.

Three things about Breakfast at Antonio’s: First, the service is really slow. We had to call the waiters three times before they get our orders. Second, the food is bland and average except for the cup of hot chocolate. I think that was really remarkable.

Last but not the least, the pricing is insane. The waffle and pancake cost nearly US$ 10 (almost PhP 500) each, and it didn’t make me feel full. Not even a bit. Although my rich friend — who always calls himself comfortable as if he was Nick Young from Crazy Rich Asians — was delighted with the servings. To each his own, I guess.

We capped the night drinking with our friends from the army, who are about to be dispatched to different outposts in the Philippines. It was kind of a despedida since they will be stuck in their posts for two years or more.

Quiet mornings

The next morning, I found myself puffy and bloated after possessing the spirits of Jose Cuervo and Alfonso. I haven’t got myself drunk in a long time, so I took a much-needed hangover meal and shower that helped me come back to my senses.

Mornings are peaceful here. You can give your soul a break whether it’s through drinking a cup of coffee in silence while you read a new novel, or staring into space.

I went to the rooftop to get some sun. The overlooking view is the perfect sight to capture using a wide-angle mode, and I was glad I have that handy feature. It was breathtaking; as if there were endless possibilities unraveling before me.

The cat enjoyed getting some sun, too. I didn’t want to cause disturbance by getting close, so I used 2x zoom to capture it from a distance.

To a patch of greenery

We’re headed on a new adventure and a 30-minute drive to Mendez to visit an organic farm called L&J Country Estate. As part of my friend’s assignment, we’re helping her explore and learn about the place to see if the tour can be part of her next segment.

Upon entering L&J Country Estate, the first hallmark you’ll encounter is its fabulous fountain.

The place hosted an event the weekend before, so the café, swimming pool, and other amenities were off-limits for the timebeing.

Masks were removed only during photo-ops.

Noela Amparo, a rising pop-rock sensation, didn’t pass an opportunity to have her photos taken while we’re on the tour.

The first part we explored is their farm designed to look like gardens.

There was a bird sanctuary as well, for those who love birds.

The place doesn’t welcome smokers with their unapologetic signage. I pretend I didn’t see that and moved on. (I am guilty as charged.)

The open space where kids are welcome is also a space for witchcraft. Just kidding. There was a bonfire for late-night roasting sessions, or when you just want to chill and hang around.

For adventurous kids and kids-at-heart, there are several obstacle courses to enjoy as well.

And there were a lot of swings for those who want to live in the moment and sit in peace.

Flowers bloom almost everywhere, making it the perfect foreground for your Instagram photos.

Garden trellises produce dappled sunlight, so take advantage of them to create a hopeful yet dramatic appeal in your shots.

Masks were removed only during photo-ops.

Halfway, we got tired of walking around that we decided to lounge on a bench and catch up with life. Sometimes, we need to fill our time with laughter and conversations.

Remember: taking care of your relationships and spending time with people you love are also a form of self-care. Find ways to sit down and be present. We shouldn’t be consumed by the worries of the future all the time.

Masks were removed only during photo-ops.

And don’t forget to take selfies with the people you love.

Right after our tour, we passed by this youthful Volkswagen Beetle on our way out.

Masks were removed only during photo-ops. Everyone in the photo tested negative and got official documents to conduct business.

Of course, we didn’t forget to take a group selfie to commemorate the tour and to appreciate everyone who made the tour happen.

Twin Lakes

Before heading back to Manila, we took a quick drive to Twin Lakes to grab our lunch.

The place is eerily quiet with only a handful of people roaming around.

Before leaving, I stood at the balcony and took another look, and marveled at a breathtaking and refreshing view, before going back to the gloomy and busy Metro. The trip was quite short, but it was eventful.

All photos were taken using the ASUS Zenfone 8.

24 Hours is a series on GadgetMatch.com where we showcase our travels through a smartphone camera’s perspective. It’s also a documented guide on things to see and do in a city in case you happen to plan a trip there.