From Behind the Lens to the Heart of the Jungle: What Thailand Taught Me About Photography, Purpose, and Presence
As a portrait photographer, I spend my days helping people feel seen — truly seen. So when I traveled to Thailand for my honeymoon, I had no idea how deeply I’d be impacted by a place that does exactly that — not with a camera, but with compassion.
After some time in Bangkok exploring temples, night markets, and rooftop bars, my wife and I journeyed north to Chiang Mai, where we stayed at Chai Lai Orchid, a jungle eco-resort nestled deep in the mountains. It was unlike anywhere I’ve ever been — no polished marble floors or polished itineraries. Just nature, elephants, and a mission that hit me hard.
Chai Lai Orchid is more than a beautiful place to stay — it’s a sanctuary. Not just for travelers like me, but for women and girls escaping trafficking, abuse, and poverty. It’s part of a powerful organization called Daughters Rising, which empowers at-risk women — many of them refugees — by providing job training, education, and safe housing.
The women who work at Chai Lai aren’t just staff — they’re building new lives. Some are part of a school program that provides education for girls who live on the grounds, many of whom are orphans or come from dangerous situations. These girls not only go to school, they are part of a safe, supportive community that sees them as whole, capable, and worthy.
That’s what moved me most. Being in a space that honors women, gives them tools to thrive, and still manages to serve some of the most beautiful, nourishing meals I’ve ever had — all while elephants roam freely nearby? It was a reminder that beauty and strength can coexist in the most unexpected places.
And as a photographer, it was the kind of experience that shakes something loose in you.
We often think of photography as a way to capture beauty, but this trip reminded me that it’s also a way to witness it—to be present, to slow down, to see.
Our elephant photo session was raw and real, not picture-perfect. We were barefoot in the mud, swatting away mosquitoes, trying to stay upright as elephants playfully bumped into us. I was dripping in sweat, covered in river water, and more alive than I’ve felt in a long time.
That’s the kind of story I love to tell through my lens. Not just curated perfection — but energy. Emotion. Soul.
Whether I’m photographing a woman stepping into her confidence, a family freezing a moment in time, or a couple in love — it’s always been about more than the photo.
This trip just reminded me of that in the most unforgettable way.
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Want to learn more about Chai Lai Orchid and Daughters Rising?
Visit https://chailaiorchid.com and https://daughtersrising.org to see how they’re changing lives — and how you can help.