Bangkok-based photographer Marc Schultz has a penchant for capturing Thai life. Here, he talks about one of his photos currently on display in his latest project, Urban Lines.
Can you describe the technique used?
The image was shot with a fish eye lens and then some small adjustments were made in Photoshop. Since back sois are often very narrow, the fish eye lens does two things: it provides a more interesting perspective by distorting the lines and allows the photographer to capture a wider angle, from the top to the bottom of a building.
What’s the message behind this picture?
For me, a lot of the message in this image is the beauty and charm to be found in Bangkok’s urban decay.
How does the technique allow you to convey that message?
By distorting some of the visual chaos with a 180 degree field of view it allows people to see Bangkok in a different and less literal perspective.
Do you think there’s a difference in how Thais and foreigners interpret your images?
Possibly. Thais may not see the beauty in the old decaying part of the city. Whereas I think foreigners will view a lot of the old elements of the city as intrinsicly beautiful.
What’s a disappearing aspect of Bangkok you witnessed shooting this series that you’ll most miss?
Life on the streets of Bangkok in general. People who sell things to make a living and carry out much of their daily lives interacting with people on the streets are more humble and personable. As more and more vendors are moved off the streets and into the large new shopping malls, life becomes more commercial. It also removes the window into the past of Bangkok, which is something that will be lost forever.
