Photography Thailand Forum

[uncertainworld]

Here's my problem - my girlfriend is moving from the UK to Thailand in September in order to study and teach, and I really would like to go with her.
Does anyone out there have any advice for a freelance press / commercial photographer who is considering a move to Chiang Mai and would like to earn enough from taking pictures to keep body and soul together??
My only thoughts at the moment are to keep a folio with some stock agencies in Europe and the US of "travel photography" (a term that always seems somewhat patronising, but you know what I mean), or to find some work with a Thai publication / agency. What sort of visa would I need for either of these aproaches, and how easy are they to come by? Anyone have any better ideas? Any other specific issues I need to address?
Thanks!

[kinginexile]

Not knowing your situation in the UK, regarding being already a professional photographer or not, it is hard to answer. Only because, IMO, this would definitely provide you with a base to start on. If that is not the case, I would say that the expression being a fish in a big pond may fit here. Chiang Mai is full choked (relative to the limited market there) with "travel photographers", living and working (out of) there I mean. You would need then to establish yourself and be patient in the process, with little prospect to make regular incomes from it (many of these guys don't either, but they are jack of all trades, writers, guides, publishers, etc...), and yes, it is illegal  for a foreigner, to work in Thailand without the proper authorizations or permits.

[Marc Schultz]

Good advice CENSORED WORD and I don't mind this sort of theoretical discussion on the Forum, but please remember that as a general rule the Forum is not designed as a place for people to seek or give commercial advice on being a professional photographer in Thailand. Thank you both.

[kinginexile]

Apologies, Mark. It was rather about NOT being a P. Ph. in Thailand, for my defense! ;-)

[CW Lawrence]

You may want to consider stock photography... sitemail me if you want some tips

Any way you go, expect to put in a lot of effort and little to no return at first.

[Marc Schultz]

Thank you CENSORED WORD.

[uncertainworld]

Apologies to Marc and everyone else for going off-topic and breaking site rules with my first post. I'll try to do better!
Thanks though to all who replied. Your input is very welcome.

[Marc Schultz]

No problem and welcome to the Forum. Best wishes. Marc.