Tips for photographing in and around Angkor Wat – CNN cameraman Wesley Bruer has photographed scenes all over the world, but for its variety of historic sites, shooting light and friendly faces, Cambodia will always be one of his favorite places to shoot. Here he's greeted by a family on the road to Angkor Wat in Siem Reap. "I like this sort of introduction shot before entering the famous archaeological site," says Bruer.

1. Have a little patience – Bruer says: "This photo was taken while perched on the edge of the adjacent ruins, which gives the temple an eye-level perspective. As I framed the photo, I noticed a hot air balloon beginning to launch in the distance. I waited about 15 minutes for the balloon to rise and be visible from my vantage point. Once all the tourists cleared the area, I was able to capture this snap."

2. Don't miss Bayon – The most intricate temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia, is Bayon.

3. Don't hide from the monsoon – Monsoon season in Cambodia is perfect for photographers. With fewer tourists in late August and September, you're able to get great views of temples, neighborhoods and people.

4. Try early afternoon – The rainy season also often brings light rain during overcast mornings. This picture was taken in early afternoon, when the day was at its hottest. Climbing temperature deter afternoon crowds, leaving a window of a few hours to enjoy a sparsely populated Angkor Wat.

5. Or wake up before everyone else – By visiting smaller temples early in the morning, you can often be one of only a few visitors in the area. The Angkor Archaeological Park opens daily at 5 a.m.

6. "Mundane" scenes can be the most interesting – Off-peak hours also yield colorful scenes like this one with a grandfather helping his grandson with his homework.

7. Venture to smaller temples – At small Buddhist temples dotted throughout the ruins of Angkor Thom, monks pray throughout the day and locals and tourists pay their respects.

8. Photo ops often come outside the temples – A father talks with his son while lying in a hammock outside their home in Siem Reap. This photo was snapped when Bruer was weaving through the temples. "Many families live within feet of many of the ancient structures, often converting their homes into makeshift stores selling bottled water and T-shirts to visitors," says Bruer.