How did you become a photographer and move into filmmaking?
I studied architecture at Thammasat but decided right after graduating that it wasn’t what I wanted to do. It started out as countless unpaid experimental projects, helping friends take photos at parties. I didn’t even have my own camera at first; I had to borrow one from a friend. My first camera was a compact. I got a job with Art Asava as a Fashion Merchandiser. Then through connections I got to meet Gene Kasidit and work on the cinematography for his “Gep Kam Wa Rak (ONS)” music video. I only started filmmaking a year and a half ago.

How do you explain your success so far?
I know what I want to show my audience and how to play on their emotions. I already have the pictures in my head before I take the photos. Looking through the lens is just a way to frame them. I give everything my best shot. There was one commercial where I had to film using a crane, which I’d never done before. It felt awkward but I didn’t give up until it worked. Boundaries are nothing, you just need to keep pushing yourself.

What do you make of claims that anyone can be a good photographer right now with the latest photo editing apps?
It’s not about good filters or expensive cameras. It’s the individual behind the camera that counts. Creative work in Thailand looks mostly the same because everyone copies one another when they see something they like. I don’t copy. When I see something that inspires me, I might look at the techniques used and ask myself how I can develop it into my own style and still communicate as me.

Any tips about working in the creative industry?
Kids these days want to be something that’s in-trend. They want to be this and that, but they end up nowhere because they forget to be themselves first. Freedom to be yourself is expensive, so keep it. I don’t bother about being anyone else. I’m not a funny person, so I don’t try to crack jokes. I rarely party; either I study, work or hang out with friends. Some things in society are overrated.

What’s your biggest dream?
I don’t have dreams. I have passion. It’s what drives me and I put it into my work. It doesn’t matter what career you’re in, as long as you do it with love and faith, you will never go hungry.

What’s next for you?
I like doing a lot of projects at the same time. For me, doing just one thing is boring. I just flew to New York for work and got to expand my portfolio. The art scene there is more open-minded and vibrant than in Thailand, so I’m planning to take on more international projects. I also just started working on a big top secret project here, which will start shooting soon.