As a Thai-American, taking a trip to Thailand has never been too out of reach. My mother makes it a point to visit home frequently to help out family and return to her roots, so whenever I get the chance, I’ll tag along. From the fast-paced city of Bangkok, to the jungles of northern Thailand, to the southern seaside shores and resort islands, each area has its own flavor and every trip brings on a new experience.
The best time to visit Thailand is usually when it’s a bit cooler, less humid, and ideally not flooded with tourists: January until early-April. The week of April 13th, as Thailand enters it’s hot season, is dedicated to Songkran (Thai New Year), which is essentially the world’s biggest water fight. This year, I decided to venture to all of my favorite areas of Thailand during Songkran to see how they compare.
First, you’re going to want a fast camera with lenses that are versatile and can work in a variety of environments seamlessly. I always lean towards a kit that will help me capture street photography, portraits, and the madness of Songkran. My go-to kit included a Sony Alpha a7 III, 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master, 70-200mm f/2.8 GM, and either a 50mm or a 35mm f/1.4 GM.
For accessories, I brought several extra batteries, a waterproof phone case, a Rainsleeve (if you happen to own an underwater housing, that might work better), a water-resistant bag, an adapter, a converter, and a small waterproof neck pouch to hold valuables such as your phone, passport, and money (pick-pocketing is serious).
As you make your final preparations, make sure to cover yourself in every way. Travel insurance is a must, especially if you’re bringing expensive gear and if you plan to live a little; waterproof sunblock with a high SPF because the sun can be brutal; UV protecting safety glasses to protect your eyes from both the sun and water guns.
The best place to begin would be none other than Bangkok. Street vendors, lots of shopping, and a range of architecture surround you. Explore the various modes of transportation for different perspectives: tuk-tuks (you will get wet), taxis (if you enjoy shooting while stuck in traffic), BTS (sky train), and the railway stations that can take you further outside of Bangkok if you’re feeling adventurous.
If you’re looking to be in the action, look no further than Khao San Road, a popular street full of bars, restaurants, and shops. If you’re looking to be above the action and get a birds-eye view, one of the best viewpoints of Bangkok is from Baiyoke Tower. You might be a little too high up to see the people but the view is worth the trip regardless. If shooting from the Baiyoke (or any other viewpoint), the 70-200mm was my favorite way to capture it.
The next place I visited during Songkran was Phuket. The province is engulfed in rainforest and crystal blue waters giving it an interesting background for the festival. All of the main action occurs in Patong as you walk closer to Bangla Road. Expect it to be jam-packed once you arrive. Music is blazing and no one is safe from being soaked or having “din sor pong” rubbed on your face, which is a white paste that is traditionally used in light of the New Year. Because of how crowded it was, I found the 35mm to be the best lens for this area. It was not only fun to get up close and personal with individuals who are celebrating but the wide aperture coupled with the Sony a7 III’s low-light capabilities allowed me to shoot later through the night with no problems.
The last place on my list was Chiang Mai. In this area, they spread out the festival for several more days, which is why it’s the best place to visit last. The town is filled with vendors, cultural shows, Muay Thai boxing, beauty pageants, and more. The water festival is centered within the main roads in Si Phum that circle the moats. My favorite lens to use in this area was the 24-70mm, which allowed for versatility throughout the day (perfect for when you don’t have an opportunity to switch lenses around).
I’d like to end with a few golden rules for anyone attending Songkran for the first time:
Be smart. Don’t bring anything with you that can’t get soaked and keep an eye on your valuable belongings.
Be safe. Don’t squirt water into people’s eyes or mouths, especially while they’re operating a vehicle.
Be courteous. Don’t use dirty water.
Have fun! Otherwise, stay inside.
Songkran can be as chaotic as it sounds and therefore is not suitable for everyone. However, if you have the energy and ability to live like a kid again even if it’s just for one weekend, then it’s definitely something to try at least once. Plus you’ll get some pretty epic photos along the way.
Originally written 5/22/18 for Adorama: https://www.adorama.com/alc/a-photographers-guide-to-songkran-what-you-need-to-know-about-the-thai-new-year-celebration/