Interview with Thai landscape photographer Somkiat Pavaritpong
Somkiat Pavaritpong is a 48-year-old Bangkok-based landscape photographer who captures more than just what he shots. Somkiat is passionate about capturing landscape shots of nature, travels, and every day life. His other hobbies include cycling and scuba diving. In this interview he talks about his love for photography and how his passion was recently rekindled.
How did you pick up photography and how has your style changed over year?
I had my first camera in 1992 when I was studying USA. It was a film camera (Minolta 7Xi) that I used when traveling and recording all my activities back then. I brought back those photos for my family when I returned to Thailand.
Once digital the camera was introduced in 1997, I didn’t hesitate to get one and use it regularly to take underwater photography whenever I went scuba diving. However, when I lost interest in underwater sport, the gear has now been transferred to my son for his photography class. I picked up photography again on March 2017 with my new mirrorless camera… it amazed me with its small size and lightweight.
Changing from travelling to underwater and now to HDR landscape photography, I had to learn the basics of photography all over again and find ways to explore new styles of photography.
What attracted you to High Dynamic Range (HDR) landscape photography?
Seeing a lot of HDR landscape photography from many pros made me become more curious on how to take good pictures that have high detail on both highlight and shadow, accompanied by sharp focus from foreground to background. Also, the deep colors of pictures fascinate me so I learned a few post-processing techniques.
How about your gear?
My current gear is Fuji X-T20.
You take photos of your travel and explorations… What is the story you are trying to tell?
I travel frequently for business and pleasure. Through my photographs I want to explore my dream destinations and share the experience of my travels with my friends and family. Perfectly timed photos that capture perfectly unexpected moments tell great stories.
How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?
I educate myself by associating and following with many photography clubs on Facebook. In addition, I also do self-study from YouTube. This has helped me develop my skills.
Among your works, which one is your favorite? Why?
The picture of Chao Phraya River I took from Sky Bar at Lebua State Tower in Bangkok is my favorite photo so far. This photo captures the full blast of a colorful sky after the sunset. I had to fire repeated shots to get this one.
What are your plans for the near future?
My future plan is to travel to Everest base camp. This is my dream destination. I am looking forward to travelling there soon.
Follow Somkiat on Instagram for frequent updates.
