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IN THE PICTURE #86: PATRICK JACOBS
In this feature called ‘In the Picture‘ we ask great photographers from all over the world to share their 10 most favorite Thailand photos with our readers. See Thailand through the lens of the photographer, read the background stories and learn more about the land of smiles.
We are ashamed that it took us so long to come across Patrick’s wonderful work. Fortunately, Patrick responded enthusiastically and very promptly so we can soon show you some of his personal favorite Thailand photos. We hope to enjoy your super beautiful photos for a long time to come dear Patrick!!!
Thanks and it’s a real pleasure to get to know you and present your work here!
Hello Patrick, could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
Hello readers of Thailand Magazine!
My name is Patrick Jacobs, born in Belgium in the year 1955. After a successful career of 40 years as a hairdresser, I decided to enjoy the rest of my life by traveling. Meanwhile, I am retired and living in Hua Hin, Prachuab Kiri Khan, Thailand.
Always busy with something and photography is a passion I have rediscovered. Learning through failures and good advice from others has brought me much joy. Driven to showcase the beauty around me and always looking for different angles. Sunrises, fishing boats, travel photography, sports, wildlife and people in their daily activities are the facets that fascinate me. I photograph for my own pleasure, not for others, but for the pure pleasure of photographing. If I can evoke an emotion in those who view them: my satisfaction is multiplied.
Enjoy life!
Patrick Jacobs
#1
Hua Hin , Prachuab Khiri Khan
Urban jungle, a photo that shows how important observation can be. We were visiting friends who live on the 17th floor and have a view of the whole city. We were standing on the balconies taking pictures when I looked sideways and saw our shadows on the curvature of the building. The photo was taken with a wide angle lens, not the right choice, but I had no other at my disposal. The black and white was used because the color was just distracting in this photo.
#2
Somewhere along the way in the area around Krabi and Ao Nang
These large limestone columns are peculiar to the region and are overgrown with tropical trees and crops. The two palms in front of them provide depth on this rainy day. If you are near Krabi Town or Ao Nang, be sure to visit the Railay Peninsula, preferably for a few days, you will not regret it!
What is your favorite destination in Thailand?
I love the area around Phattalung and Tale Noi Lake. I’ve been there a few times now and never have enough time to capture all the beauty there is to see.
Which place / destination in Thailand is still on your wish list to visit?
I’ve never been to the Deep South, so that’s on my to do list.
#3
Talad Noi, Phattalung
Sunrise over the lake with a fisherman catching small fish with a large cross net on a wooden structure. Climbing on the balance, the net comes out of the water and the catch can be scooped out, only to be lowered again. The small fish are then spread out on large nets or cloths to be sun-dried for further processing.
#4
Klong Roi Sai in Surat Thani
A wetland, laced with canals and lined with palms. This photo was taken on a second visit so I was prepared. It takes a bit of planning and the choice of photo is crucial due to the light. Definitely worth a visit, even without a camera.
Which place / destination do you recommend our readers to visit and why?
There are a few, but Khao Sok National Park and Koh Phangan should be on your to visit list. By the way, these are very easy to combine. Fantastic nature and beautiful surroundings are priority places for me.
Where do you like to eat?
There is a small company in Hua Hin called Feast Thailand and they do food tours in the area. I have been on several of these food tours and discovered many hidden gems in my area. There is one place that was on the “eat like a local” tour and we still go there and love the authentic food they serve. Location Hua Hin Soi 43, called Jay Jay but they only use a Thai name in their reference.
#5
Khao Sok National Park
Khao Sok National Park is one of my favorite places. We were there during the period of the Covid-19 restrictions. A great place almost for us alone. Rent a boat with a skipper or stay overnight at one of the floating huts. You can certainly spend a few days there visiting everything. The park also has one of the oldest existing rainforests in the world, older than the Amazon.
TIP!
Looking for a guide in Khao Sok? Contact Thailand Magazine, they know the best guide in Khao Sok, a local with a lot of experience. You can also add yourself to the special Khao Sok WhatsApp or Facebook group:
#6
Thamma Park in Surath Thani
Not far from Cheow Lan Lake, the lake of Khao Sok National Park lies a hidden temple complex which is spread over several hilltops. The photo was taken at sunrise and this is the entrance gate to the complex. I definitely want to go there again to climb the different hilltops before sunrise. From the top there is a fantastic view of the valley below. You do need to be in reasonable condition for the various climbs.
Tip us a nice coffee shop or bar where our readers can drop by.
Osot Place op 162 Naresdamri RD in Hua Hin.
What is your favorite Thai dish?
Larb Moo Tord , a perfect combination of ingredients, deep fried and it goes so well with an ice cold beer.
#7
Wat Huay Mongkol
The Wat Huay Mongkol temple complex, about 15 kilometers west of Hua Hin. Famous for its huge statue of one of Thailand’s most famous monks, named Luang Phor Thuad, whose name is sometimes spelled Luang Phor Thuat. He lived in southern Thailand some 400 years ago and is now famous throughout the country for the miracles he performed. It was said that Luang Phor Thuad turned salt water into fresh, drinkable water several times.
This photo was taken in 2018 to mark the changing of the statue’s robe. An impressive procession of dignitaries and monks departs from below with the robe over 100m long and described with signatures and prayers from those present up the steps to the statue. After doing the round 3 times it is hoisted up by helpers and draped around the statue.
#8
Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan
This photo was taken at the pier off Soi 52. It is one of the oldest fishing ports in Hua Hin, there are 4 in total, and is sheltered by a stone rampart. At this place there is still a small fishing community living on the beach in small shabby huts.
What is your favorite accommodation in Thailand?
Recently opened in Bangkok, in the Chinatown/ Talat Noi area. A fellow Dutch photographer: Kars Tuinder opened a Photohostel & Photocafé. Only 3 rooms but such an inspiring place. They have exhibitions running and can even take care of your prints. A must visit if you are in BKK.
Do you have a (travel) tip that might come in handy in Thailand?
Come with an open mind, always look left and right twice when crossing a road and never rely on pedestrian crossings!
Is there a Thai phrase or word our readers need to learn?
To adopt the Thai way of life when on vacation: sabaai sabaai (chill, take it easy, tomorrow is another day). All wrapped up in these two little words.
#9
Petchaburi rice fields with the so typical palm trees
Another sunrise photo. That morning there was a magical light and a great sunrise despite a forecast of 80% chance of rain. The 50 km trip paid off.
#10
Hua Hin, Prachuab Khiri Khan
A fisherman casts his net from a dilapidated jetty at dawn. It takes strength and precision to cast these heavy nets and it reminds me of the choreography of a dance with the grace with which it is performed.
What type / brand of camera do you use?
I am a Nikon user, currently using a D780 with a couple of lenses.
Where can our readers find your work / photos?
Facebook: @Foto’s door Patrick Jacobs and Instagram: @Patje559.
Last question, who should we also ask our ‘In the Picture’ feature?
Shaggy Num, he has a beautiful eye for creating pictures.
#11
Hua Hin
Two monks at morning prayers at the temple Wat Khao Sanam Chai. This temple is one of the best maintained temples in the area and you have a fantastic view over the four cardinal directions. To the east the area of Sam Roi Yot, the north the Gulf of Bangkok, the south in the distance the mountains of Myanmar and to the west the city and further Cha Am. Highly recommended if you are coming to Hua Hin.
#12
Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen
Buddha statue under construction in Bangkok. This 20-story statue is a landmark for this metropolis. Constructed in copper and painted with gold, this statue in the Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen temple will be the largest in Bangkok. I absolutely wanted this in my portfolio and specifically set aside a day to go to BKK for it. The official name of the statue is Phra Buddha Dhammakaya Thepmongkhon statue.
DID YOU KNOW?
These days, electric tuk-tuks are also driving around Bangkok. Check out our article on MuvMi.
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