Lens and Leisure : Thailand
Tried some panning shots in the busy streets of Yaowarat (Chinatown), Bangkok
In January of this year, I embarked on an exciting journey to Thailand, accompanied by a group of friends. Our plan? To soak in the sun-kissed beaches of Phuket, followed by a vibrant exploration of Bangkok's bustling streets. This trip wasn't just a getaway – it was a photographer's dream, armed with my arsenal of cameras, ready to capture every unforgettable moment.
As a photographer with a penchant for overpacking, I chose my gear meticulously for this trip. My backpack brimmed with the latest Sony A7IV and its companion, the 24-70 GMii lens. I didn't forget my trusty GoPro Hero 11 Black and the DJI Mini 3 Pro for those dynamic aerial shots. And for a touch of nostalgia, my Canon EOS 7s loaded with five rolls of film made the cut. This time, though, I made the tough decision to leave my beloved Mamiya RB67 – the behemoth of my collection – behind.
Phuket, once a tranquil haven, seemed to have transformed. The once-peaceful beaches and serene landscapes had given way to a more bustling atmosphere – a sharp contrast to my memories of it from previous visits this decade. Despite the change, the culinary experiences remained extraordinary, with every meal being a delightful explosion of flavors. While Phuket will always hold a special place in my heart, I find myself drawn to the allure of Thailand's lesser-known islands like Koh Lipe or Ko Muk for my next visit.
Throughout the trip, my GoPro emerged as the MVP – its ease of use allowed me to capture moments spontaneously without much fuss. Surprisingly, my Canon EOS 7s followed closely – its modest value made it easier to share with friends for candid shots. My prized A7IV, though always by my side, saw less action than anticipated.
Bangkok was a whirlwind of energy and culture. Each street corner buzzed with life, and the city's vibrant pulse was palpable. However, the constraints of time meant that my exploration was limited to the well-trodden paths of popular tourist spots. This leaves me yearning to return for a solo trip, with my camera as my companion, to delve deeper into the city’s hidden gems and local secrets.
This trip was a revelation in many ways – not just in the beauty and diversity of Thailand, but also in how I approach travel photography. I didn’t get any portfolio worthy pictures, but that wasn’t the point of the trip. For future adventures, I've resolved to adopt a minimalist approach: one camera, one lens, and perhaps the GoPro for good measure. Because sometimes, the best way to capture the essence of a place is not through the lens of multiple cameras, but through the immersive experience of being truly present.