Photography tips from Chiang Rai Exposure

On visiting Chiang Rai, you will be amazed at the abundance of photo opportunities. Every aspect of photography is catered for here. We CREW members can offer some advice on where to go, timings (days and months of the year). We do not offer any technical advice, just how to make the most of your photographic experience here. None of us are professionals, so if you appreciate the photos we’ve loaded onto the site, you can see that any camera, any skill level will produce some fantastic photos.

Chiang Rai Province is a mountainous region of northern Thailand. Travel 10 minutes outside of the city and the countryside opens up. Smaller roads wind up the steep slopes and views are almost too frequent. The Mekok River flows through the city, the mighty Mekong River is the northern border of this province and easily accessible. Smaller rivers, rice fields, tea plantations make for a busy time. During the summer (November - April) harsh direct sunlight needs to be considered. Any videographers should bring ND filters to make the most of their lenses. One problem for landscape photography from February - March is the haze caused by the smoke from the agricultural ‘burning season’. A polarising filter will help, but the views can be spoilt the further the distance in your composure.

Flora and forna are in abundance here. Many flowers not seen in the Western world naturally grow wild, almost everywhere outside the city limits, although you’ll be surprised at what the city can offer also. One venue of particular interest is Mae Fah Luang Gardens, to the north of the province. Very well kept gardens with easy composure to take in so much beauty in one shot. The road up to the gardens affords so many photo opportunities itself, plenty of batteries and SD cards required!

With the many beautiful temples within the province, you will be intoxicated by the choice. Rich golden temples inter dispersed with bright, vibrant colours. Detailing on the structures needs to be seen to be believed. The White Temple for example, can never be done justice by any photo I’ve see. The effort in building this, and other temples, is only fully appreciated in person. Photography within the temple grounds is usually always possible. From within the temple itself, always check before. Temples are used daily by many here, unlike churches in the West. Look out for and special services being held, such as funerals, best not to be pointing a camera around at these time. You can always come back later.

This is a topic the CREW hasn’t delved into as yet. But we can tell you that outside the city limits, light pollution is minimal, along with clear skies in the summer months. Let us know how you get on, we’d like to learn more.

This is one our favourites. Thai people like being photographed 90% of the time in our experience. Seeing a foreigner wanting to capture their image is welcomed. One downside however, is that they do tend to pose for this. Tip, take the posed photo then continue after to capture real life images. Use the phrase ‘Tai rup krup’ which means can I take a photo is a pleasant way to ask permission if you’re not sure. Police, Army and other Government officials should be asked beforehand. Many enjoy being photographed, dependent on the duties being carried out at the time.

Basic and life-saving tips for a successful photo shoot.

Ensure all equipment is working and clean.

SD cards have enough space (and more) for the day.

Charge batteries for cameras, lights, gimbles etc.

Have waterproof bags to protect equipment during the monsoon season.

Use comfortable bags, rucksacks that leave your hands free to negotiate any difficult terrain.

On LANDSCAPE shoots here, some locations can be off of the beaten track, therefore the following important advice should be adhered to:

Let someone locally know where you’re going, with whom, the route and for how long. Make sure they know where this is, coordinating a rescue can prove difficult. There is a lot of countryside out here.

On arrival, if there are some locals, let them know you are heading into the jungle, up the river or into a cave. They will look out for you departing safely.

Ensure you have a charged mobile phone and credit. Be aware some locations don’t have signal coverage.

Keep your phone on your person during the shoot. Quick access to it is important.

Wear clothing suitable for the conditions. In winter it can be cold. In summer and the rainy seasons, hot and humid. Cover your body with trousers, long-sleeved shirts and good walking footwear.

Take insect repellant.

An umbrella in heat and rain. Small fold away ones are light and effective.

Take drinking water. The humidity and heat can affect your body adversely and quickly. Stay hydrated.

Be physically fit. Some small treks in this environment can be more strenuous than you think.

Try not to go alone, we’re all guilty of this at times. Take a friend, or even an enemy for company!

Have enough fuel in your vehicle to get back to a town. Fuel stations are few and far between outside of the towns. Check the vehicle is serviceable before departing.

Let people know you have left the location and report when back safely.

Let someone locally know where you’re going is the most important advice we can give you.

We’ve added some quick tips around our website for your convenience. The photos in our galleries can be used as composure guides and an illustration on what is on offer here. Should you need a camera shop, there are two at the Central Plaza Shopping Mall in the city. Specialist accessories can only be found in Phantip Plaza, Chiang Mai unfortunately. We know of a couple of smaller shops here for some emergency repairs if you get stuck. If you would like to share a few photos from your visit here, please send to us for inclusion and become part of the CREW.