About Me

Hello there and thank you for checking out my website. My name is Deejay Ruperto and I am a poker event photographer from the Philippines. I have worked in different prestigious events in Philippines and Asia since 2008 with Poker News Asia, Poker Portal Asia, Asian Poker Tour, Philippine Poker Tour, Poker Manila, Pilipinas Poker, Metro Card Club and since 2014 I have been providing photos for somuchpoker; the number 1 online poker news website in Asia.

 

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Photography, for me, has always been about capturing those fleeting moments that tell a story.  It's about freezing time and emotion in a single frame.  My fascination with photography started way back in high school. I'd sneak in a few shots with those disposable film cameras my mom would bring back from Japan. I was hooked on the anticipation of seeing those printed images, the surprise of what I'd managed to capture.

In 2003, my mom gave me a Sony Cybershot, also from Japan, and that really fueled my passion. I was taking photos of everything – landscapes, close-ups of flowers, even detailed shots of food.  I had those photos printed, framed them, and even sold a few! It was exciting to earn money doing something I loved.  That little success pushed me to enroll in a photography class in 2007, and that's where things really took off.

From Weddings to the Felt:

My early photography career was a mixed bag.  I shot weddings, baptisms, kids, models, you name it. In 2008 I started covering poker events and by 2012 I decided to just focus on poker event photography.  It was a natural fit, really. I'm a poker player myself, so I understand the game, the tension, the strategy, the thrill of victory (and the agony of defeat!). That insider's perspective gives me an edge. I know the key moments to capture, the subtle tells, the raw emotions that unfold at the table.

My goal isn't just to document the action; it's to capture the essence of the poker experience.  I want my photos to tell a story, to transport you to that moment, to make you feel the intensity of the game.  Whether it's the focused stare of a player contemplating their next move or the burst of excitement when someone wins a big pot, I strive to capture those authentic moments that make poker so captivating.

I believe that strong relationships are the foundation of any successful business.  I prioritize building trust with my clients through professionalism and open communication. I want them to feel confident that I'll deliver high-quality images and a positive experience.  It's been amazing to work with some of the same clients for over a decade – a testament to the relationships we've built.
To anyone starting out in photography, I'd say: Be professional, be passionate, and always strive to do your best.  Dedication and hard work are essential, but never lose sight of the joy and creativity that drew you to photography in the first place.