Getting Lucky at Wat Sri Chum in Sukhothai, Thailand, Southeast Asia

by Sam Antonio

Title

Getting Lucky at Wat Sri Chum in Sukhothai, Thailand, Southeast Asia

Artist

Sam Antonio

Medium

Photograph - Fine Art Photography

Description

Sukhothai was the first capital of Siam founded by King Ramkhamhaeng during the 13th Century. The province's temples and monuments have been restored and is now the Sukhothai Historical Park and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If I had to choose between the two ancient Thai capitols of Sukhothai and Ayutthaya I would clearly choose Sukhothai. Its perfectly manicured historical park is a photographer’s dream.

The beautiful temple of Wat Sri Chum features a large Buddha that is framed perfectly by the temple entrance. I took a couple of photos, but I knew a human element would complete the scene.

I remembered the quote from National Geographic Photographer Michael Yamashita when he stated, “I'm paid to be lucky and that means making your own luck - getting yourself in the right position, in front of the right subject at the right time, and in the right light.”

I waited around for thirty minutes, but I all I had to contend with were hot, sweaty Western tourists in ridiculously looking fisherman pants (popular with the young backpacker crowd who wear them to somehow blend in with the locals even though the young locals love to wear jeans. Go figure). Finally, a group of monks showed up to offer prayers and all the elements came together.

I got “lucky” that afternoon, but I wasn’t paid to be lucky. I am still waiting for National Geographic to give me a call. Did you guys lose my number?

Uploaded

May 20th, 2016

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