Capturing Essence: The Journey of Ronnakorn Charoenkun Through the Lens of Film Camera
In the vibrant world of fashion photography, Ronnakorn Charoenkun’s journey from a curious student to a seasoned professional stands out as a testament to passion and creativity. A native of Thailand, Ronnakorn’s love for photography ignited during his university years when he was captivated by the striking images he encountered in various media. Despite pursuing a different academic path, the allure of the camera proved irresistible. “I bought my first camera and started experimenting on my own, learning through trial and error,” Ronnakorn recalls. This self-taught photographer’s early explorations eventually led to a significant internship with a prominent fashion magazine in Thailand. Over the course of four years, he honed his craft, deepening his love for fashion photography and solidifying his career in the industry.
Ronnakorn’s distinctive approach to photography is defined by his strong preference for film over digital photography, which has become a hallmark of his style. By using film cameras, he creates images with unique color tones and an organic feel that require little to no editing. “Film gives me the look and feel I love, right out of the camera,” he explains. His creative process is both thoughtful and collaborative, beginning with a deep understanding of the subject, followed by developing a mood board and crafting a direction that feels authentic. Influenced by renowned photographers such as Nobuyoshi Araki, Nan Goldin, and Juergen Teller, Ronnakorn’s work is marked by a raw and intimate style. One of his most memorable shots is a powerful image of Anna, a model smoking in a bathtub, which perfectly captures this style through the natural expression and subtle tones, highlighting the depth of his artistic vision.
Over the years, Ronnakorn’s approach has evolved, not just in technique but in thought and teamwork. The past two years have been especially transformative, as he experimented with new ideas, collaborated closely with a stylist, and even took on the film processing and scanning himself. “I don’t see my work heading in any particular direction; I just keep doing what I love and trust that the work will take me where I need to go,” Ronnakorn reflects. In an era dominated by digital imagery, his commitment to authenticity and his unique perspective make his work a standout in the fashion photography landscape, continually shaping his artistic journey one frame at a time.
