Every Minute could be the Best Shot M.L. Aniwat Suksawasdi If happiness was based on doing what you loved best and spending time doing just that, it’s undeniable to say that M.L.Aniwat Suksawasdi is a man of true contentment. As a professor of the Astronomy Department at Chiang Mai University and owner of Aniwat Photo Gallery, he is able to spend both his work and personal time doing what he loves most, and that is gazing at stars through his viewfinder and through the eyes of an astronomer and a freelance photographer. “Two things I love doing most are stargazing and taking photographs. As a child, I would use my dad’s camera all the time, to the point that I had film rolls scattered all over the house. To this day, I switched to using digital cameras and as it turns out, pictures come out just as gorgeous and it’s cheaper and convenient too. During his free time, M.L. Aniwat would take his camera exploring the world, snapping photos of the most scenic destinations, as seen in pictures in his spacious gallery. We found out that the venue was a gift from a department store that gave opportunities for those who supported the Lanna culture. “There are dozens of beautiful places in Chiang Mai, be it in the University or the ancient sites, and each one has its own charm. What needs to be considered is when the photo should be taken in order to capture its beauty because the environment around it changes dramatically every day. It’s important to know the path of the sun and the moon every single day so that you seize the right moment, and that’s when my knowledge of astronomy fits in well.” “When the weather is cool like this, exquisite sights would be at the University, near Ang Kaew and Doi Sutep. Today I’m heading out to Palard Temple, an ancient place of worship at the side of the Doi. I guarantee a set of wonderful photos.” M.L. Aniwat invited us to go along with him. In less than an hour, we arrived at the temple of 500 years, which is rare to find in Thailand these days. “I enjoy coming here as there are many spots that catch the eye, namely the stupa, the Buddha figure on the river and the ancient pool. There was never a roof there, which just goes to show that things change over time and cannot be taken back. Photos have thus become significant records that help us remember places and events.” We walked and took photos until darkness crept upon us, and we could feel the cool air against our skin and hear nature sounds all around. The sun’s rays faded away and we packed our equipments and proceeded to the next destination, Chiang Mai University, where there was still some sunlight. “I enjoy it here, with the gardens and numerous trees, there is always a good scene to capture. My favorite spot is the pool of the University, Ang Kaew, where I come every season to snap photos and they turned out different each time.” “When it gets dark, I will go sell some of my works at the popular “weekend walking street”, a famous strip in town where I get the chance to meet interesting people and exchange experiences with them. I don’t have a storefront but I set up a cart standing in front of someone’s house. I was lucky that the owner was extremely nice, had an interest in photography and also did not collect any rent from me.” [laughing] As the sun disappeared over the horizon, we too set off to be a part of the crowd of all ages. They gathered, walked around, talking and laughing and signing language to bargain for reasonable prices of goods. The ambiance was joyful with elderly people playing traditional musical instruments and children dancing around them. We simply walked with the crowd until we reached a stand of postcards displayed artfully, with a white fluorescent bulb shining above. “I come here every Sunday to showcase my postcards. Most of my customers are university students and if they are regulars, they would get a membership card too! I find joy in seeing people enjoy my work and who actually return to buy more. The process in shooting any picture is quite complicated. I put a lot of effort in considering, waiting, and seeking the right time. Most importantly, the equipment I use is straightforward – my digital camera and a tripod – and if this simplicity is enough to make people happy, I am too.” M.L. Aniwat has proven to us all that if you have the love and determination to create works that you enjoy, people will be able to enjoy and be in awe too! Aniwat Gallery 2nd Floor Nothern Village Central Airport Store Plaza Chiang Mai Tel. 08-6918-0211