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Published on November 24, 2007

 "Whether we think of photographs as being art or reflecting what's in the news, every picture tells a real story," says Thanis Sudto, a photographer from the Nation Group, who along with five other photojournalists from various publications is currently exhibiting his works at Siam Centre in Bangkok.

The exhibition "It's Not for News: Eastern Wind" by the Stand on Street group features 50 images exploring the charms of the oriental world is on show until tomorrow.

Also taking part in the exhibition are Nanthasit Nitmatha from Nation Group, Natthiti Ampriwan and Pattarachai Prechapanic from Post Today, Narong Sangnark from European Pressphoto Agency (EPA), and Panumas Sanguanwong from Matichon.

All six have been keen photographers since their teens. Thanis, who's been photographing news events for a decade now, says that each situation is unique and with every publication wanting to get the best shot, it's important to make sure you're in the right place at the right time.

"As a photojournalist, I know I need the courage of my convictions," he says. "Here in Thailand, some people are afraid of taking photos, especially if it's a situation they are not comfortable with."

Nanthasit agrees with Thanis, saying that working in the news field is a constant race against time. "Personally, I like taking lifestyle photos, presenting emotions. My most honourable moment was when I captured the picture of His Majesty the King and Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn from the balcony of the Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall during celebrations marking the 60th anniversary of His Majesty's accession to the throne last year."

Natthiti regards his photos as a kind of community service, a reflection of society from both sides - good and bad.

"I was so pleased when I received a letter from a reader saying she felt inspired after seeing my photo of His Majesty," he says.

As a professional photographer for a foreign press agency, Narong believes no photographer can resist taking beautiful pictures. The freedom he enjoys in his work is the most important element he tries to present in his images.

"At EPA, they teach me to think out of the box," he explains. "For example, I'm supposed to take a photograph that talks about how much petrol prices have increased so what I should do is come up with a picture of a vendor who is facing a difficult time. For me, the most difficult photo shoots are those that deal with a massive disaster like the tsunami."

For Panumas, each task has a different aspect and angle. He finds portraits of people where the photographer has to capture feelings and personality difficult but admits that they also appeal. "I enjoy the challenge," he smiles.

Pattarachai says capturing nature is the most difficult. "Mother Nature is full of unexpected moments and a fresh one always comes up just as you're about to click the shutter," he says.

Kupluthai Pungkanon

 The Nation