Once weekly we will be presenting you with another superb entry from our recent competition. The basic premise was that you had to submit at least six photos, along with a piece of writing, whether fiction, non-fiction, or poetry. The writing could be anything you want, but had to relate to the photos in some way.
This week is Chad Cullin’s photographic journey through the Thai New Year.
These were taken during Thai New Years, which occurs in April. Traditionally it’s a time for going to a wat (Buddhist temple) to make merit, showing respect for ones elders, and washing the household Buddha image. In more modern times, the “cleansing” aspect has been expanded to include a country-wide, no-holds-barred water fight that lasts 3-5 days. These pictures were taken at Bangkok’s notorious Soi Cowboy during the day, using a Canon Elan II, EF 50mm f/1.8, and a homemade watertight housing constructed out of a ziploc bag, gaffers tape, and $10 UV filter.
(Editors note: Click on a photo to view in a lightbox on black, it may take a few seconds to load due to the size, but it is well worth it..the photos look stunning!).
It's not uncommon to see a mahout (elephant trainer) walking his charge down the street in Bangkok, especially in areas where tourists congregate (so they sell elephant treats to anyone interested in feeding them).
This foreigner has really taken to the spirit of the holiday, outfitting himself with swimming goggles and a pair of water guns
A pair of Thai girls walking down the street, preparing to soak other passersby.
Safety, never terribly high in people's minds, takes a back-burner during the New Year holidays. Every year the Thai government promulgates a new plan for staunching the spike in roadway casualties during the Songkran festivities.
his image, taken from a second story building (on Khao San Road) shows the motion of the densely packed crowd.
A little boy takes a break from the fun to smile for a picture.
Thanks Chad, the photos were incredible.
Comments
This was my favourite and I voted for it! I like the champagne being poured into one’s mouth
If I ever end up in Thailand again I hope it’s during the timeframe that they do this, that looks like a lot of fun. Great job capturing the excitement and drama.