Last Updated on August 9, 2024
Peeradon Ariyanukooltorn is a name that has begun to resonate within the architectural and photographic communities with a growing resonance. Framing the confluence of structure and light, Peeradon’s work transcends traditional photography; it is an art form that stands at the crossroads of innovation and classical beauty. His story unfolds an intriguing tale that started in the serene corridors of academia, where he combined his passion for photography with his architectural studies at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok. It was there, in those formative years, that a passion ignited, one that would see him rise to the president of the university’s photography club, a tenure marked by transformative leadership and widespread recognition from prestigious organizations like Canon, Nikon, and The Royal Photographic Society of Thailand.
Transplanted from Thailand’s bustling streets to America’s sweeping landscapes, Peeradon’s journey has now brought him to the vibrant city of Seattle. Here, he continues his relentless pursuit of capturing the essence of architectural form through the medium of photography, further polished by a certificate in cinematography from UCLA Extension. His vision is a compelling blend of composition and color, where each photo tells a nuanced story of light interacting with the built environment.
Peeradon champions the introduction of his unique vision to American society, seeking to establish his persona not only as a masterful architectural photographer but as a multifaceted artisan of the visual arts. He brings with him a rich portfolio of collaboration with leading property developers, architects, and designers from Thailand. As a Nikon brand ambassador, he has been influential in crafting campaigns that resonate with the aspirations of a new generation. His accomplishments are numerous, from being one of the participating photographers selected by Apple for their illustrious iPhone 14 Series event to clinching the third prize at the 2022 International Photography Awards in the professional event/social cause category. Peeradon’s blend of photography and architecture has resulted in an unparalleled style, positioning him as a storyteller whose language is light and whose ink is the cityscape.
A passion ignited: The convergence of photography and architecture
The compelling blend of Peeradon Ariyanukooltorn’s expertise in architecture and his vision as a photographer is not just happenstance; it is the product of a deliberate and passionate journey. He masterfully captures the essence of spaces, playing with light and form in ways that only an architect could conceive. “Studying architecture was like learning a new language while photography gave it a voice,” Peeradon explains. It was my own visual language of expressing the spirit of a space, a bridge between the technicality of architecture and the emotion of art.
Peeradon is not timid in describing the revelation that occurred in his final year at university—a turning point where his camera became as much a tool of exploration as any pencil or blueprint. “I discovered that through my lens, I could explore shapes and shadows in ways I never could on paper,” he shares, with a tone of discovery still fresh in his voice. It was the moment my dual passions converged, and I truly embarked on my path as an architectural photographer.” This deep-seated love for craftsmanship and detail is the foundation upon which his unique style is built, with each image standing as an ode to the meticulous construction of place and time.
Shifting landscapes: From Thailand to the United States
Peeradon’s transpacific leap from the familiarity of Thailand to the bold new world of the United States is a tale of adaptation and expansion both personally and artistically. At the heart of this journey was his pursuit of further education in cinematography at UCLA Extension, a decision that refined his perspective and introduced new dimensions to his work. The program at UCLA was a crucible of growth; it infused my still images with the language of motion pictures,” Peeradon describes. “Each frame I capture is now charged with a cinematic quality, telling stories that extend beyond the boundaries of traditional photography.”
The vibrant urban fabric of Seattle has served as an inspiring backdrop for Peeradon, a fresh terrain where his creativity has been both challenged and invigorated. “Seattle’s skyline is teeming with narratives, and my camera is my scribe,” he articulates, capturing the kinetic energy within the city’s architecture. The interplay of shapes and the choreography of light across the cityscapes compel Peeradon’s desire to innovate, pushing the limits of what can be achieved through the medium of architectural photography. Adjusting to Seattle’s rhythm has been exhilarating; its architecture offers a dynamic dance of shadows and lines, one I strive to articulate through my images,” Peeradon recounts, as he continues to meld his architectural acumen with his photographic finesse.
Multifaceted mastery: Photographer, retoucher, and colorist
Peeradon Ariyanukooltorn’s virtuosity is not confined to the single role of a photographer; he is an artisan who commands the whole spectrum of visual storytelling, from the moment of shutter release to the final expressive touches in post-production. “The image making process is my canvas, and in each role—as a photographer, retoucher, and colorist—I am able to impart a piece of my soul into the work,” Peeradon says, describing the depth of his engagement with every phase of the craft. With a detail-oriented eye, he shapes raw images into precise works of art, ensuring that each photograph reflects the initial inspiration that led to its creation. To me, retouching and color grading are not just steps in the process, they are integral to the narrative, sculpting the story I am trying to convey,” he reveals, hinting at the painstaking care that goes into every layer and adjustment.
His proficiency in these multifaceted roles allows him a rare autonomy in the production of his work, a symphony where he is the composer, conductor, and principal performer. This comprehensive control over the visual narrative sets his work apart, creating a signature Peeradon image that is immediately recognizable. “Each role requires a different mindset,” Peeradon explains, “The photographer in me seeks the perfect composition and moment, while the retoucher crafts the image’s essence, and the colorist injects emotion and tone.”
Peeradon thrives in this triad, as he believes that the true artistry lies in the seamless integration of these disciplines. He articulates, “Understanding color science and textural enhancements as a retoucher enriches my approach behind the camera, just as framing an image with an architectural eye informs my decisions in the color grading suite.” In essence, Peeradon’s work is a conversation between various elements of photography, each informed by his wide-ranging expertise.
Guiding the next generation: Director, educator, and inspirer
Educator, mentor, and motivator—Peeradon Ariyanukooltorn wears these titles with as much pride as his photographic accolades. His transition from capturing images to imparting knowledge is a reflection of his dedication to the craft and his desire to see it grow through new talents. “Sharing knowledge with others is as much a part of my work as taking the photographs,” Peeradon admits. His educational initiatives, particularly his advanced workshops at YAMASTUDIO, are a testament to his commitment to nurturing potential. “I crafted ‘All About Perspective’ to be more than a course—it’s a gateway for photographers to unlock the language of architecture through their lenses,” he describes the transformative experience he offers his students.
In Peeradon’s view, education in photography is not about dictating rules but rather about guiding exploratory journeys. “I see myself in each of my students—as eager, as hungry for knowledge. It’s a profound joy to guide them beyond the technicalities, into the poetry of architecture and light,” Peeradon reflects. His teaching philosophy is centered around the idea that each student holds the potential for greatness, provided they are given the tools and insights to unlock it. “The moment a student’s perspective shifts, when they start seeing not just buildings, but stories, narratives, and emotions—that’s the moment I work for,” he confides.
Peering over Peeradon’s shoulder into his classroom is a view into the future of architectural photography—a future brightened by the passion and proficiency he instills in his students. “It is a symbiotic relationship—teaching reinforces my understanding of my craft, and their fresh perspectives often inspire new avenues in my own work,” Peeradon shares, revealing that the learning experience is mutual. With every workshop and lecture, he invests in the field’s future, sowing seeds that will grow into the next generation of architectural photographers, each with a story to tell and a vision to share, inspired by Peeradon Ariyanukooltorn’s guiding light.
Ambassadorship and advocacy
Peeradon Ariyanukooltorn’s influence in the world of photography extends well beyond the borders of his own work. As a brand ambassador for Nikon and a selected photographer at Apple’s illustrious events, his roles have transitioned from photographer to global advocate for the art form. “Working with Nikon wasn’t just about representing the brand, it was about shaping the perceptions and aspirations of emerging talents,” Peeradon says. He remembers his tenure as a brand ambassador as an opportunity to demonstrate the power of photography to a new generation. “I had the honor of helping to redefine what Nikon stood for in the eyes of the young, eager photographers who are the future of this craft,” he recounts with a mix of pride and humility.
His ambassadorial role has not been taken lightly. Peeradon has used these platforms to engage, educate, and excite photographers about the boundless possibilities of the photographic medium. “To be an ambassador is to be an influencer of change. It was my mission to inspire Nikon’s clientele through innovative, authentic, and relatable photography narratives,” Peeradon declares, highlighting the responsibility that comes with such a title. His efforts have been akin to pushing the boundaries of what is commercially and artistically possible within the industry.
At the Apple Fall Event, Peeradon’s photographic prowess was cast under the international spotlight. This rare invitation from such a significant tech entity stands as a resounding acknowledgment of his expertise and influence. “Apple’s recognition was an unexpected affirmation that my work transcends cultural and geographical barriers,” Peeradon reflects on the significance of the nod. “It wasn’t just a milestone for me personally, but a signal to the industry that photographers from any corner of the world can touch a global audience.” Through these experiences, Peeradon’s advocacy for the photographic community has not only elevated his profile but also the art of photography itself, fostering a culture of excellence that reverberates across continents.
A Testament to Talent: Winning at the International Photography Awards
Peeradon Ariyanukooltorn’s accomplishments in the realm of photography have been rightfully acknowledged on the global stage, with his recent win at the International Photography Awards (IPA) serving as a significant emblem of his artistic skill. “Earning the third prize at the IPA was a humbling moment, an international nod to the story I sought to tell through my lens,” Peeradon reflects on his achievement. “It reassured me that my work does not just resonate on a visual level, but it also ignites conversations and emotions.”
The IPA-winning photograph, which masterfully captured Bangkok’s cityscape at blue hour against the backdrop of a historical event, is a representation of Peeradon’s dedication to his craft. “That photograph was about so much more than aesthetics; it was about capturing a moment in history, combining the transient beauty of the city with the weight of the event,” Peeradon says, explaining the depth behind the image. This compelling blend of architectural magnificence and social narrative succinctly encapsulates the essence of his artistic philosophy.
Peeradon sees this recognition as an impetus to continue pushing the boundaries of architectural photography. With a profound sense of purpose, he remarks, “Awards like these are affirmations that my vision and voice are valid. They’re milestones that spur me on, driving me to further refine my art and to continue telling stories that might otherwise be overlooked.” Peeradon’s success at the IPA is a testament not only to his individual talent but also to the potency of photography as an art form that can communicate across cultures and carry the weight of collective human experiences.
Peeradon Ariyanukooltorn’s journey is a fascinating amalgamation of architectural precision and photographic creativity. His work is not just about capturing images; it’s about telling stories, exploring depths, and unveiling the intricate relationship between space, structure, and the human experience. Through his lens, ordinary structures breathe life, and everyday moments are encapsulated in time, revealing the extraordinary in the mundane. His approach challenges conventional perceptions of photography, encouraging viewers to see the world differently. As Peeradon continues to push the boundaries of his art, he remains a source of inspiration for aspiring photographers, proving that the fusion of distinct disciplines can lead to truly innovative artistry. His story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the continuous pursuit of creative excellence.
