Milestones and Memories: Pre-Graduation Photoshoots by Jaturapat Prakhamsai

For students, the days leading up to graduation hold a bittersweet tension caught between milestone and memory. The thrill of finally achieving a goal is tempered by the scary uncertainty of what comes next. The celebration of friendships that made classes worthwhile is met with the quiet ache of goodbyes. It’s an emotional and reflective season, and Thai dentist and photographer Jaturapat Prakhamsai encapsulates that through his medium format photography.

In this interview, Jaturapat shares his approach to working on pre-graduation photoshoots and how he brings out those bittersweet emotions in his work.

Hi, Jaturapat! Welcome to the Magazine. Could you please provide an introduction about yourself and your work?

Hi! My name is Jaturapat. I'm a full-time dentist based in Thailand, but photography has always been my second passion. Over the years, it’s become more than just a hobby – it’s now a part of my identity and something I truly enjoy doing alongside my main profession.

What’s your film photography background? Can you recall how and when you got started with shooting?

I initially started with digital photography, just casually experimenting and enjoying the process. My first steps into film came when I picked up my mom’s old Pentax K1000 – that’s when I began exploring the unique feel and tones that only film can offer. The turning point for me was when I came across the photo series “Haru and Mina” by Hideaki Hamada. The soft, nostalgic mood of those images really moved me, and I found out they were shot on a Pentax 67II. That inspired me to dive deeper into medium format film photography. Since then, I’ve been gradually learning, shooting, and falling in love with film even more.

How would you describe your photography style?

I would describe my photography style as environmental portraiture – I love capturing people in beautiful or meaningful locations, where both the subject and the setting work together to tell a story. Originally, I trained my eye through landscape photography, so composition and storytelling have always been at the core of how I shoot.

Nowadays, much of my work revolves around pre-graduation and pre-wedding sessions. I’m based in Chiang Mai, which offers an incredible variety of scenic spots – from mountains and flower fields to charming old towns. Placing the subject in these environments doesn’t just complement the person; it helps elevate the story of the place as well. Every shoot becomes a small narrative frozen in time.

Your pre-graduation shoots beautifully capture the warmth and connection between friends. How do you bring out that sense of friendship in your photos? Walk us through how you handle your clients during shoots.

Before I even start shooting, I always take time to get to know my clients first. I never begin with the camera right away – instead, I talk with them for a bit to break the ice and build a little trust. I ask how comfortable they are in front of the camera, and what kinds of poses or movements feel most natural to them.

Rather than giving rigid instructions, I often encourage them to walk, run, or simply interact with each other. That movement helps bring out genuine emotions and makes the whole experience feel less like a photo shoot and more like a shared memory.

Since I shoot with medium format film – which allows only 10 frames per roll – every shot has to count. I always wait for the most honest, heartfelt moments before clicking the shutter. That’s how I try to capture the real warmth and connection between friends.

Do you have a favorite memory from one of your graduation sessions? Perhaps a memorable story behind one of your photos?

There are quite a few memorable sessions, but one of my favorite stories is about a couple I’ve had the honor of photographing throughout different stages of their life. I first took their photos back when they had just started dating in university – young love in its most innocent and joyful form. Years later, I was there again to capture their graduation day, this time with a new set of couple portraits that reflected how their bond had grown.

Eventually, I was invited to shoot their pre-wedding session, and not long after, their actual wedding. Knowing that my photographs have been present throughout their journey – from student days to the next chapter of life – is incredibly meaningful to me. It’s moments like these that remind me how photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures; it’s about becoming a part of someone’s story. And I feel so grateful to have been part of theirs.

What’s one challenge you often face when photographing groups, and how do you work around it?

Photographing groups can be both challenging and easy – it really depends on the dynamic. The challenge lies in observing each individual: understanding what kind of pose they’re comfortable with, how to position everyone in a way that feels balanced, and how to highlight each person’s unique presence within the group. It takes a lot of awareness and sensitivity to make sure no one gets lost in the frame. But at the same time, it’s often quite easy – especially when the group is made up of close friends. They joke around, tease each other, and aren’t afraid to be silly in front of the camera. That energy creates natural, joyful moments that are a dream to capture. Some of the most fun and heartfelt images come from those unplanned, playful interactions.

When capturing your images, what element do you prioritize the most, and why?

For me, emotion is always the top priority. If someone looks at the photo and smiles – that’s the greatest reward. That’s what I aim for every time I press the shutter.

Of course, lighting and composition are important too, but they come second. Sometimes the weather isn't on our side – it could be overcast, raining, or the light just isn’t ideal. But if the subject is smiling, laughing, and genuinely enjoying the moment, the photo can still turn out beautifully. Emotion brings life to the image, and that’s what makes it timeless.

What’s your typical setup for a shoot? Do you have any go-to gear and equipment?

My go-to setup these days is the Pentax 67II paired with the 105 mm f/2.4 lens – it’s a workhorse that I trust for almost every shoot. The combination gives me beautiful depth, creamy bokeh, and just the right amount of character for portraits, especially in natural light.

For something a bit more playful, I also like to bring along my Lomomatic 110. It adds a fun, spontaneous vibe to the shoot – perfect for capturing behind-the-scenes moments or quick snapshots in between the more composed shots. Switching between formats keeps things fresh and adds variety to the final set.

How do film and digital photography differ for you? What unique qualities do each medium bring to your work?

I think being able to shoot both film and digital is a real advantage. Shooting film trains you to slow down and be more intentional. Before pressing the shutter, you have to feel the moment, observe the light, and wait for just the right timing – especially with medium format, where you only get a few frames per roll. That mindset naturally carries over into my digital work as well. It’s not always about quantity; it’s about meaning.

Personally, I feel that film gives a look and feel that digital just can’t fully replicate. The softness, the grain, the color tones – I’ve tried to mimic them with digital, but it’s never quite the same. That’s why many of my clients who already love film tend to choose film sessions from the start.

Of course, digital still has its strengths. You get more flexibility, faster workflow, and a higher shot count, which makes it practical for many types of shoots. But for me, film remains something special – it brings soul into the image.

Lastly, what’s a valuable lesson you’ve learned that you think every beginner photographer should hear?

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that to become a better photographer, you need to look at a lot of photos. Study the work of others – from different styles, genres, and cultures. These days, with social media, you have access to an endless world of inspiration right at your fingertips.

Consuming visual content mindfully helps expand your perspective, spark ideas, and shape your own style over time. Personally, I love scrolling through hashtags like #heylomography, #lomography400, #lomography800, and #mediumformatfilm – I do it all the time, honestly! So don’t be afraid to explore. Sometimes seeing how others view the world can help you understand how you want to frame your own.

If Jaturapat's work caught your eye, be sure to check out his Instagram and Facebook to see more photos and follow his future shoots.

written by francinegaebriele on 2025-08-23 #people #school #couple #students #friends #thailand Share Article