Pyae Phyo Thet Paing

Pyae Phyo Thet Paing is a visionary travel photographer from the vibrant landscapes of Myanmar. His artistic journey began at 14 when he received a compact film camera as a gift from his father, opening his eyes to the beauty of the world through a lens. Capturing moments with family and friends ignited a deep passion within him, guiding his path to encapsulate the essence of life through his art.

As a teenager, Pyae eagerly experimented with photography, instinctively understanding that every image tells a story. In 2012, he made a monumental decision by purchasing his first small camera, prompting him to leave behind a life as a seafarer in 2013. By early 2014, he was determined to pursue photography full-time, enrolling in the Dynamic Digital Photography School in Yangon. There, he honed his technical skills while immersing himself in self-directed learning through online resources and photography literature.

Pyae's early endeavors were characterized by a deep hunger for exploration and connection. He participated in significant group photography projects, such as "Yangon Circle Train" and "We Live in Yangon," culminating in photography exhibitions and published books. These experiences enriched his understanding of the narratives that unfold in everyday life, fueling his desire to bring these stories to the forefront through his lens.

As his skills evolved, Pyae turned his gaze toward international photography contests to share his vision with the world. In 2018, he achieved a landmark victory by winning first prize in the UNESCO Youth Eye on Silk Road contest, marking a pivotal moment in his career at 25. His accolades continued to grow, with recent achievements in 2024, including a second prize in the World Water Day Photography Contest and a Student Award in the Green Storm Photography Contest for 2024 World Earth Day.

Beyond his award-winning work, Pyae is passionate about education and community engagement. He leads travel photography tours and organizes workshops, sharing his insights and experiences with aspiring photographers. He has collaborated with renowned brands such as Fujifilm, OPPO, TT Artisan Lens, Kani Filter, and Sirui Tripod on various photography projects and promotional campaigns. Notably, some of his landscape photographs are now available for purchase on Getty Images.

Pyae's portfolio is a testament to his artistic vision. He enjoys capturing candid documentary styles that reflect the beauty of daily life and also loves creating artistic forms of photography. He believes that photography is not merely a medium but a powerful art form that fosters connection and communication among people. His mission is to highlight the profound beauty of his homeland, sharing the rich tapestry of its cultures and traditions with the world.

For Pyae, photography transcends mere imagery; it becomes an emotional dialogue, enabling him to convey not just what he sees but also the feelings and stories behind those moments. His camera acts as a paintbrush, creating a vivid canvas filled with the stories and emotions of the world around him. Now residing in Bangkok, Thailand, Pyae Phyo Thet Paing continues to explore new horizons, documenting life through his lens while inspiring others to appreciate the beauty in their surroundings.