pagespicsA New Lens for My Wat Paknam Project
Posted on September 2, 2026
The Leica 100 – 400mm Telephoto Zoom.
Last weekend I visited Mega Mall, in Bangkok’s China Town and accidentally purchased a new lens. So without further ado please let me introduce the Panasonic/ Leica 100 – 400mm Telephoto. Having this lens is now providing the opportunity to take photos of the Big Buddha from a long, long way away.
The Mega Mall is famous for having five floors of toys and games and can be found in Bangkok’s China Town. When you get the 5th floor and take a sharp right you will be rewarded with a rather exciting collection of shops selling 35mm film cameras, second hand lenses, tripods, filters ect…. My reason for this visit was to fix my Olympus OM10, but whilst I was there I could not resist hunting for a telephoto lens at a reasonable price.
Panasonic Leica 100 – 400mm Lens
This is NOT a review of the Leica 100-400mm, as I lack the experience with this focal length to provide many meaningful comments. However, I looked at a number of options and what appealed to me is the massive focal length in a relatively compact package. In addition, it cost significantly less than its full-frame competitors. Telephoto lenses are often used by bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Bringing one to a project based in Bangkok means there will be a learning curve ahead. This lens mounts to a Micro Four Thirds camera, the full frame equivalent would be 200 – 800mm, which in layman’s terms means it can capture things that are miles away!
Some of the most striking images I have seen of the Buddha statue at Wat Paknam are captured from a distance. The effect of taking photos from far off is that it creates multiple layers of buildings, bridges, and people splayed out infront of the statue. I could achieve this with the gear I had, but the statue would always appear small and in the distance. This problem is now FIXED! However, getting the photos I want is going to be a challenge.
Learning Curve
The three photos featured in this article were all taken on my first outing with the Leica 100 – 400. Here is what I have learned so far…
- Even though this is one of the lightest lenses in its class, it is still heavy.
- I need a steady hand when zooming in close. Even better, a tripod or mono pod.
- There a buttons on it that I think relate to image stabilization. Maybe I should read the manual.
- I can’t achieve the depth of focus the I can with my prime lenses (minimum fstop is 5.6), although I can ‘cheat’ to some extent. I.e. for the photo above, the background was blurred in photoshop, not in camera. Cheating? Maybe…
- I purchased this lens as I am chasing an image of the Buddha, framed with a glorious sunset. However, just because I now have the perfect lens for the job does not mean the weather will play ball. Looks like 6pm rain ahead for the next 2 – 3 months!
Anything else? Let me know if you have tips and tricks for using telephoto zoom lenses!
Wat Paknam, an ongoing project…
As I edit my pics and look back at the choices made my mind changes about what images I prefer. I am not sure if any of these images will make the final cut. I am also not sure if I like the ‘gun metal grey’ backgrounds that the rainy afternoon provided, although the thick layers of cloud provided a pleasant soft box effect that avoids the harsh reflections the golden metallic surface of the statue can create. Looking outside at the moment and it is pouring, so I think embracing the rain is something I will have to continue doing until Thailand’s rainy season ends.
Take care and keep clicking, Chris.
A Wide Angle Lens For The Big Buddah
Posted on August 28, 2026
@ Wat Paknam
Gear
Every project needs a cover photo, and I think this pic may the one I will use. To capture this photo I stood meters from the base and used a very wide angle lens. My lens choice was the Rokinon 24mm f1.8. This piece of glass has the advantage of being fast and light. I was fortunate to pick it up years ago, second hand at a bargain price. However, it is manual focus and for this reason I took my trusty tripod (and is also the reason it usually stays at home!). Personally I am a big fan of Siriu Tripods, they are a little cheaper than the larger brands, they are made in China, and have an excellent build quality.
Timing
As is so often the case, the best photos are taken at the start or the end of the day. The Buddha faces the East to welcome each morning. I took this photo in the evening, just before sunset. This time is often referred the ‘the blue hour’. There was enough sunshine to still provide a gentle back light giving what I like to think of as an ethereal glow, but perhaps that is me being overly poetic!
To view the full (ongoing) project you can click on this LINK. Next up… I am looking for a Telephoto Zoom to capture the Buddha from afar. The best ones are very expensive, so I am looking a the slightly cheaper options. As always, watch this space.
Take Care and Keep Clicking, Chris
Daya Bay: An unfinished photo Project…
Posted on July 25, 2026
…of unfinished buildings
Daya Bay is found on the coast of China, a two hour drive north of the border to Hong Kong. I lived in Park Lane Harbour, a small holiday village nestled along the seafront. The Bay area is full of unfinished towns and projects, many of which are a shadow of the Covid years. I cannot imagine what happened to the investors’ money, and wonder if these buildings will ever be completed; many of which are falling down before completion. In many places construction of new buildings will be running as those next to them crumble. Not many words today, so enjoy the pics.
The Bangaloreans Part 2: A Photographers Journey with a Holy Bull Walker
Posted on July 15, 2026
It would appear that not all bulls are born equal. The one in the photo below is particularly special, in that you can hire it for the day along with its owner and experience bull walking for yourself. This image reminded me of a book by Michael Freeman, ‘Get The Photos Others Can’t’. One tip to get photos that are a little different is to go to places others do not go! This location was in a small village in Bangalore. I am not sure I would have found it if I had not been working on ‘The Bangaloreans’.
What are some unusual locations you have been for photography?
Where and why we take photos.
This article has made me think about why we take photos. Is it about the final image, or about the journey taken capturing the photo? Maybe the answer is obvious with travel photography. However, my profession of teaching has also opened doors to locations I would have got to as a regular tourist. Other examples include entering buildings that, perhaps are meant to be kept out of. Not that I am advocating breaking and entering, but handing security a backhander can do wonders…
What are some of your more unusual location for photography? Let me know in the comments.
Take care and keep clicking, Chris
The Bangaloreans: A Photographer’s Journey with Diane
Posted on July 14, 2026
This month I bought a new laptop and have started the process of backing up and transferring photos. I was a little concerned that my photo count was getting close to 50,000 RAW images, all of which take time and money to back up. One folder, aptly named ‘Book‘, contained 3000 images of people I worked with whilst photographing for the project ‘The Bangaloreans’. Needless to say, not every image was perfect!
The missing shots, poorly focussed or framed images, those featuring people with their eyes closed of faces screwed up have now been safely culled and discarded on the editing room floor. I will now take the opportunity to share a few of my favorite pics and characters. Part 1: Diane…
Diane: The Hijra (Transexual)
It is not everyday that you get to watch a Hijra get ready for a day’s work. It was a privilege to see this lady prepare, if at times a little awkward. Inside Diane’s home there was a large image of another lady of whom I guessed would be a close friend or relative. How wrong I was, the lady featured was someone who had wronged Diane and the picture was hung on the wall to be cursed at every opportunity. Blessing and cursing are two things the Hijra are well qualified in.
Shooting Conditions
When out taking photos for ‘The Bangalorean’s’ there were few perfect locations for photography. Diane’s house was small and the lighting less than perfect. The above image was taken outside in natural lighting when she was finished getting ready for the day. It was still early in the morning and I think the image is flattering, although there are traces of a harsh life on her face.
Once ready, Kaveri and I spent the day following Diane as she blessed stall owners at a local market. Apparently, as the Hijra’s have had ‘ something removed’ they gain the ability to bless or curse. I’m not sure if science backs this theory up, but would rather not do anything to invoke the spirits. It was obvious that the market workers all respected Diane and would hand over small amounts of cash to be blessed, or have a curse undone. Here I was taking photos in my favorite environment, outside and wondering a market, capturing everyday life.
Please keep an eye out for ‘Part 2’, where I will look at another of my favorite characters from ‘The Bangaloreans.
Take care and keep clicking, Chris. xxx
Exploring Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen: A Photographer’s Guide
Posted on July 12, 2026
I have worn out many shoes wandering the streets taking photos. However, I am happy to report that the photo above was taken in my bare feet from the edge of my living room balcony. Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen is home to the ‘Big Buddha’ found West of the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok. The Buddha was constructed in 2021, although the Royal Wat is dated back to 1610.
Like many locations in Thailand there is an alternative name, or spelling of this landmark, ‘Wat Paknam Bhasicharoen’. I took this photo as a huge rain cloud swept towards my apartment. I have taken many images of the Buddha from my home, but this is one of my favourite, as the ominous rain clouds add a character and make the statue ‘pop’ from the background.
The Canals and the Bridges…
There are many published images taken from this location at, Wat Chantharam Worawihan. The best angle is from a wobbling boat landing, so a fast shutter speed is needed to keep everything sharp. A longer zoom would have been very helpful, and one day I may spend some time cleaning power lines and communication posts out of the background. In that I have just purchased a new laptop the lens may have to wait! One option I have not yet explored is to navigate around the Buddha by boat, which is a very viable tourist option.
Tha Phra MRT Train Station
One view of the Buddha that is worth a walk is from The Phra MRT train station. I purchased a ticket and set up station at the end of the platform. Gear wise I could have used a taller tripod and a longer lens, but there is always something else you need or want. The station’s security team were quite patient and after asking why I was there, left me alone to take my photos. My home can be seen just to the left of the Big Buddha, at the top of the apartment building that looks like a set of uneven steps.
What’s Next?
There are many spots that offer spectacular views of Wat Paknam. However, as you get closer the views disappear giving opportunities for ‘sneak peaks’ through the urban alleys and canals. In addition, if you avoid the busy weekends, the Wat is a peaceful location to meditate and chill. So yes, I will continue making a project out of this fantastic landmark, which has a personal touch as I can see it from my bedroom window. Feel free to drop me a note and say hello, and if you want to to take a photo from my balcony please PM me, I’ll make sure the kettle is on!
Keep Clicking, Chris xxx
Songkran Festival: A Photographer’s Waterproof Dilemma
Posted on April 14, 2026
Songkran is when Thailand celebrates its New Year and is a time of tradition and history. Songkran is a cultural celebration full of gratitude, kindness, and joy. The festival typically takes place from April 13 to 15, when people bathe Buddha images and pour water over the hands of elders as a sign of respect. In recent times, this celebration has morphed into a huge water fight. Few places would be as packed and busy as the Walking Street in Phuket’s town of Patong.
Gear
Whatever I took was going to get very wet. I looked at ways to waterproof my Olympus Camera using rubber bands, plastic bags, and electrical tape. Secondly, I looked at purchasing a water-proof housing for the camera. Lastly, I thought about buying a new waterproof camera. All of these ideas were scuppered for financial reasons. So… I headed out with the phone, a now slight dated Xiaomi 13 Pro.
Excuses, excuses, excuses…
You may think I could have done better, BUT phones do not work well when wet and I could not see as my glasses were also covered in water. The camera app kept crashing, and at one point I realized I was in the document scan mode, which failed to produce usable images. Consistent noise made sure that I could not think clearly. Ever! I started the day shooting in ‘Pro Mode’ and was able to take control of ISO and aperture but quickly realised this was a not going to work. The screen was obscured by water and the camera kept opening random apps and changing settings all by itself. Somehow my phone kept working, which is nothing short of a miracle, and spewed out some very inflexible HEIF photo files which were wrestled into submission in post processing.
One Day Was Enough
I started this shoot around 2pm, when the light was incredibly harsh, making me wish I had a camera with an ND filter, and better dynamic range. Highlights were blow left right and center, which I struggled to correct in Lightroom. Topaz AI came into play and improved the HEIF files somewhat. At some point I must look into JPEG v HEIF. If anyone knows a good informative article, please drop a note in the comments. I further processed the pics using a version of ON1 effects that are available FREE. I like the film colour film simulators this package offers, opting for a Kodak Velvia 50 filter to create a slightly less harsh image. I had finished taking pics by 6pm, as the crowds were getting bigger, and the booze was making everything far too rowdy!
Mud, Talcum Powder, and Beer
Further risks to camera gear are the vast quantities of Mud, Talcum Powder, and Beer on the streets. When I cover the event next year, I will be sure to arm myself with a waterproof camera housing, ear plugs, and safety goggles. Whilst most people aim for a body shot, the occasional drunken ‘hero’ will go for a high-powered face shot, which on one instance knocked my glasses clean off my face.
By six o-clock I was done, and the light was fading anyway. Nighttime can be great for street photography. However, I was wet and tired, with a great hotel room and an even better wife to return to. My phone miraculously worked the next day. The events will continue tomorrow, and I would like to visit the old town to get a more traditional take of the festival. As always, watch this space!
Take care and keep clicking, Chris
The Bangkok Photography Group
Posted on March 22, 2026
Photo Walk: #144 Prem Prachakon Canal
I have recently stumbled upon the Bangkok Photography Group on Facebook, who organise monthly walks in various corners of Bangkok. Walks are followed by a talk, held somewhere off the main drag of Sukhumvit, which I have yet to attend. Each month there appears to be a magazine produced, showcasing everyone’s images. It is obvious that someone is putting a lot of love and time into Bangkok’s photography scene and I am looking forward to further adventures.
The Canal
Many of Bangkok’s canals are undergoing modernisation. This should make them easier to walk or cycle around. However, I hope the old houses and alleyways are not destroyed in the process. I fear the sky in the photo above has been over-processed and does not sit too well with its reflection in the water. Is the photo a hit or miss? Let me know in the comments.
Gear
This photo shoot started at 8am. This is much later than I like to start my street photography as the sun is very bright and can burn all the detail out of the frame. Shooting in harsh light also requires a fast shutter speed and a small aperture. As I like to shoot wide open, I added a variable ND filter. I feel this has also created quite a pleasing tone to the images. Using ND filters is not something I have done a lot of, particularly for street photography. However, times they are a changing, so who knows.
Environmental Portraits of Lottery Ticket Merchants
Lottery ticket merchants are everywhere in Bangkok and are often seen riding a bicycle. Note to self – take more pictures of these guys (and girls), as it could make a fascinating mini project. Out of the two photos, I prefer the image below. The lady looks lost in a daydream, maybe about one day winning the lottery.
Fish…
As with many countries in Asia, once you enter villages and alleyways, you soon start to see fish, sausages, and meat drying in the heat of the day. These foods are generally laid out in patterns, which make them ideal for photography. This was a very common site in China. Speaking of China my next post MAY be about exploring Bangkok’s Chinatown.
Well, that is me wrapped up for today. Take care and keep clicking, Chris
Photographing Thailand’s Urban Beaches
Posted on December 12, 2025
Pattaya and Hua Hin
Pattaya
It takes two hours to drive to Pattaya from Bangkok, making the city close enough for a weekend of photography. All life can be found there, from the young hip crowd seeking the thrills of Walking Street, tourists seeking sun and sand, and old men looking for cheap beer and company. It makes sense that life spills onto the beaches. The best time of day is when the sun starts to set, and the light is not so extreme.
Gear
I packed my trusty OM System EM5 due to its compact and discrete nature. In the bag went my 17mm 1.8 for Street Photography, and my 45mm 1.8 for portraits. Both these lenses work well when the light gets low. As always, the images were edited in Lightroom Classic, which is always improving at removing the noise created by the higher ISO required to shoot in the evening and at dusk.
The People We Meet…
Most people sporting tattoos are quite happy for their pic to be taken, and this bloke was no exception. As always, the moment past in a flash. I wish I had asked about the significance of 1992! Tattoos are something that are always on my shot list.
Hua Hin
Hua Hin is further from Bangkok than Pattaya. If the traffic is fair, then you can cover the distance in just over three hours. The vibe is very different and a lot more relaxed. There are a diverse range of bars and restaurants, ensuring a variety of activities and people to photograph. I was strictly on holiday mode and spent more time reading books than taking photos. Some time was spent playing with intentional camera movement (ICM), leading to the image below, which is more than a little inspired by Maggie from Gisborne Camera Club!
Happy Christmas
Well, that may be all from Pagespics until 2026. I will be in the South Island of New Zealand for Christmas and returning to Thailand in time to see Fat Boy Slim play in Phuket. My camera will be with me, so looking forward to lots of family pics and landscape photography.
Take care and keep clicking, Chris
Exploring Halloween Ghouls in Sukhumvit, Bangkok
Posted on November 3, 2025
Location, location, location
For Halloween I headed to Sukhumvit in the center for town and focused on the area between Soi Cowboy and Nana. This area is a notorious party zone with plenty of bars and clubs that spill out onto the street, offering ample opportunities for Street Photography. I was looking to capture portraits, rather than candid moments. I’m not sure I quite hit the brief as I failed to return with as many face shots as I hoped. However, as always, I had fun trying. There were certainly some great outfits to be found.
Did I Choose the Right Lens?
Photogenic characters can always be found along Sukhumvit in Bangkok, even when it is not Halloween. For this photo walk I took my OM System EM5. Shooting at night with a M4/3 (Micro four thirds) camera creates a lot of digital noise, which I fixed in Lightroom. Using a 35mm equivalent lens ensured I could go wide enough to capture the action. However, on reflection a more portrait orientated lens may have captured the finer details of the weird and wonderfully made-up faces of the night.
Like, follow, and what’s in the pipeline…
Like, follow, and share! I will be continuing to post tips and photo guides that will help lift your photography game. Planned but not promised, images that did not quite make it into the book, ‘The Bangalorean‘, even if they maybe should have!
That’s all for today folks as it is Sunday afternoon the evening is screaming for a movie to be watched. Take care and keep clicking, Chris
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