A Bangkok photographer’s viral temple photos have kickstarted a new trend for tourists

Specializing in weddings and graduations, Bangkok photographer Jatuporn “Aof” Singtomast’s business had suffered a lot during the pandemic. Then, in May 2022, things took a dramatic turn for the better. Just as the world was gradually emerging from lockdown, Aof went viral with a particularly striking photo set: two photogenic American couples, wearing pastel candy-colored traditional outfits and bright smiles, posing with Wat Ratchanatdaram as the backdrop. 

The photo set was covered in several local media outlets and got over 40,000 likes on the Facebook page it was posted on. It also won the appreciation of the Thai public for capturing a contemporary yet respectful “East meets West” vibe.

Temple photos in traditional garments may seem overdone, but the photographer himself has been stunned to see how even teens are now taking an interest in visiting temples to take photos. Since then, these photo sessions have become a popular activity for tourists, with dozens of rental shops cropping up near temples around Bangkok. 

The trend has breathed new life into his business, as well as another casualty of the pandemic: the rental costume store Sense of Thai, which offers traditional outfits in stylish contemporary color palettes. 

“Their color schemes are so well-curated that you still complement your friends,” Aof says. “I also get people to pose in a modern way where they are running, walking or laughing and not only in traditional poses so it’s not passe. There’s still so much more you can do.”   

Here, the photographer now famous for his pretty and playful shots tells Sawasdee his Bangkok shooting tips.

Which shot is your favorite and why?
It’s really difficult to choose one, but I love this picture above of these four Americans working in Bangkok. They rented outfits from Sense of Thai and booked a photo session with us before moving back to their country. I chose this picture because of their smiles – they’re so genuine and truly from the heart. They look like they’re having so much fun. I love how the outfits they chose for themselves really suit them, which goes to say that our traditional Thai costumes can look good on anyone.

For those who don’t want to dress up, where else is a good backdrop to shoot in Bangkok?
There are loads of places in Bangkok that provide amazing backdrops, whether it is public parks or architectural beauties, such as the Ministry of Defense building, Bang Rak Fire Station, Hua Lamphong Train Station or areas such as Talad Noi. Personally, my favorite is the Green Bike Bridge at Lumpini Park. You can shoot there both in the morning or evenings. There may not be a lot of photo spots, but simple backgrounds provide more than enough beauty on their own.

What are some tips you can share about shooting at temples?
Avoid the crowds by going as early as the temples open – some are open from 8am. It also won’t be as hot yet. If you aren’t a morning person, going to less popular temples besides Wat Arun can be an option. There are loads of temples to choose from and you may even come across less ubiquitous backdrops. Another favorite of mine is Wat Mahathat.

What are some tricks you use when crowds are unavoidable?
Try shooting upwards from a lower angle so others aren’t in your frame. If the view above isn’t that great, try going for close-ups and blurring the background. If not, you can also use the model or other objects in the foreground to cover the undesired in your frame. Don’t be scared to try new techniques or new angles because with technology today, you can easily edit or delete your shots. Your portrait may not even be dark despite photographing against the sun, so just give it a try.

What do you like to photograph when you go on holiday yourself?
I barely do actually, just a few of my wife that would suffice for her new profile photo! We work together as she is the one who photoshops all my photos for Aofaum Photography, so we don’t take much photos at all on holiday. We mostly take pictures of food during our travels for our social media accounts.

Where would you love to photograph that you haven’t yet?
So many places — Europe and America, just to name a few.

What has been the most memorable moment you’ve shot whether for work or pleasure?
Photographers are sure to have many memorable moments, but the most memorable moment for me was when my clients receive my photos and text me to say that they are very impressed, love the pictures and want to come back again. I don’t think it gets any better than that. I’m not just taking photos of them, but I’m helping them save their memories. Whenever they look at those photos, it helps them to remember how much fun and happiness they’ve had on that day.

Which temple do you like shooting at most? Why?
I personally like a few, but I usually take foreigners to Wat Arun because it’s beautiful and offers many photo backdrops. It’s easy to commute to and most importantly, it’s the top destination for most visitors.

What are some photo spots at temples that are not-to-be-missed?
I think that would be any spot that helps you recall how happy you were to have visited that temple. It doesn’t have to be in front of the demon statues at Wat Arun, by the reclining Buddha at Wat Pho or Sanam Luang with the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in the background. Every spot has its own charm, depending on who the viewer is. For that reason, every spot one can be one that is “not-to-be-missed”.

Ready for an adventure in Bangkok? Fly directly to Bangkok with Thai Airways.