The vibrant soul of Thailand is most visible through its ancient festivals and timeless
traditions. In this category, we seek photographs that capture the energy, color, and
spiritual significance of Thai celebrations, whether they occur in the bustling streets of
Bangkok or the quiet grounds of a temple in Michigan. We encourage submissions showcasing
events like Songkran (Thai New Year), Loy Krathong, or the solemn beauty of Buddhist
religious ceremonies such as Kathina and Visakha Bucha.
Beyond the major holidays, we also look for images depicting daily acts of devotion and
cultural preservation. This could include the morning alms round, the intricate movements of
traditional Thai dance, or the respectful "Wai" used in greeting elders. For Thais living in
the United States, these traditions serve as an anchor to our identity. Photographs in this
category should evoke a sense of pride and continuity, illustrating how we maintain our
spiritual roots and cultural practices despite being thousands of miles away from our
ancestral home. We want to see how the flame of Thai heritage continues to burn brightly
across generations.
2. Culinary Heritage
The Art of Thai Cuisine
Thai food is recognized globally for its complexity, balance, and bold flavors, but for us,
it represents much more than just sustenance; it is a language of love and community. This
category is dedicated to the culinary arts that define our culture. We invite photographers
to submit images that go beyond the finished dish. We want to see the process: the mortar
and pestle pounding chili paste, the steam rising from a street food stall, or a grandmother
teaching her grandchildren how to fold banana leaves for desserts.
In the United States, Thai restaurants and home kitchens become gathering spots where
stories are exchanged over plates of Pad Thai or Som Tum. We are looking for photos that
capture the atmosphere of these communal meals. Whether it is a high-end presentation of
Royal Thai cuisine or a simple, comforting bowl of rice soup eaten on a snowy American
morning, your photos should stimulate the senses. Show us the ingredients, the textures, and
the joy of eating together. This category celebrates how food acts as a bridge, connecting
us to our memories of Thailand and introducing our rich culture to new friends in the West.
3. Life in the Diaspora
Thai People in America
What does it mean to be Thai in America? This category focuses on the unique, everyday
experiences of the Thai diaspora living in the United States. We are looking for candid,
documentary-style photography that tells the story of adaptation and resilience. Subjects
can range from Thai students studying at American universities and professionals working in
city skyscrapers, to families enjoying a weekend picnic in a local park. The goal is to
capture the intersection of two worlds and how we navigate them.
We encourage you to find beauty in the ordinary. Submit photos that show the contrast and
harmony of our lives, such as a monk walking through a snowy landscape, a Thai grocery store
in a suburban strip mall, or a diverse group of friends learning the Thai language. This
category is about the human element—the faces, the smiles, and the struggles of our
community. It serves as a visual diary of our existence here, documenting how we contribute
to American society while holding onto the values of kindness and respect that define us.
Help us build a visual archive that future generations can look back on with pride.