InFocus - a photography exhibition Department of Information and Media, MoIC & Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan
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This catalog is published for the exhibition InFocus - a photography exhibition, inaugurated at Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan in April 2021. ©2021 All copyrights reserved. The Department of Information and Media, Ministry of Information and Communications and the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan, Thimphu, is the holder of the copyright of this book in its entirely. This book is printed and distributed on the condition that it shall not, by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, resold, hired out, or otherwise circulated without the copyright holders’ prior written permission in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise), without the prior written permission of both the copyright owners. ISBN 978-99980-979-0-2 Cover Photo Front Cover: ©Yeshi Jamyang Back Cover: ©Ugyen Norbu Published by Creative Arts Division, DoIM, MoIC & Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan April 2021 Layout design and printed by Yoez Graphics Chubachu, Thimphu yoezergraphics@gmail.com
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Introduction Art is an integral part of human life, an essential component of interdisciplinary learning, and a way to express thoughts and imagination. Creating and appreciating different forms of art and artistic creativity champions a beautiful and unique society. It is not easy to confine art to one definition. Art is many things, it is a subtle power that has the ability to change ideas and beliefs. It challenges opinions. It is the explosion of dreams and imaginations in one piece of music note, a brush of stroke, a word in a novel, or a capture of a moment that is otherwise gone. Being able to imagine and produce that image right in front of one’s eyes, is in fact magical. Today there are more and more Bhutanese who are extremely talented but do not turn to art as a full-time career. We have a myriad of passionate photographers in the country but very few who appreciate the work. The Department of Information and Media (DoIM), Ministry of Information and Communications (MoIC) in line with its mandate to help promote contemporary and creative arts in the country, organized a Photo Exhibition in collaboration with the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan (RTAB).
The objectives for organizing this exhibition were: - To encourage local photographers to pursue their passion - To provide networking opportunities with other established artists - To promote appreciation of the art of photography in the country, and - To provide platform to the photographers to showcase their skills and creativity. The submission of entries was accepted from 1st March until 22nd March 2021. We received a total of 848 entries from 109 participants of which 93 were male and 16 female. The participants were Bhutanese nationals from across the country including Civil Servants, Monks, college and school students, and Bhutanese nationals residing outside the country such as Australia, Myanmar, Nepal, and India. In addition, we also received an entry from a foreigner residing in Bhutan. The exhibition of the selected photos was held at the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan (RTAB) in April 2021.
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Phuntsho Wangdi My name is Phuntsho Wangdi from Dagana. I have done my degree in B.Sc Forestry from India in 2020. I am not a professional photographer. I learned about photography through YouTube videos. Photography has been my passion since high school and I believe that, if one has the passion, nothing is impossible. I find joy in taking photographs and I believe that every photograph tells a story. I like nature and wildlife photography. Photography helps me to connect myself with nature. Whenever I see different species of birds and diversity, it makes me very happy. I also love going for trekking/hiking and every time I travel, I enjoy taking photographs of different places, food, people, vibes, and architecture. Phento Wangdi
_phubwangchuk_graphy
phuntshowang7@gmail.com 2
The greatest happiness is when we help others
Happy little monks 3
Ugyen Dorji My name is Ugyen Dorji from Mongar Dzongkhag. I have completed my studies in Bachelor in Computer Application from Manipal University, Sikkim in 2011. I am a freelance guide. After working as a guide, I have picked an interest in photography, In 2017, I have undergone basic photography course organized by Ministry of Labor and Human Resources, conducted by the Institute for Professional Studies. Since then I have been learning and exploring more about Photography skills and also I have been working as photographer as well as nature guide as a full time job. Photography is the medium of choice for my creative expression; I am still excited about the power and magic of photography and its ability to capture my own unique selective perception of the moment in a form that I can share with others. ugyen8914@gmail.com 4
Time capsule… Angay dressed in her finest
The Face 5
Kinley Wangchuk When I was in the college, I wanted to find a career that let me be artistic and work with people. Right out of college I started searching for any job in photography. I took up a job working as a freelance photographer, which quickly led in to working for many clients, which led me into opening my own studio. So photography is the only “real” job I’ve ever had, 9 years and counting.
kinchukd7000@gmail.com 6
Bumpa Sithup, Gangtey Goenpa
During recess … 7
Learning the art of mask dance from his master 8
Ecstasy
Innocence never looked this good…Tashi 5 years old
Camera shy 9
The mask dance performers 10
Monks performing rituals for the wellbeing of all the sentient beings 11
Thinley Dema I am Thinley Dema from Thimphu. I am a student at Nalanda University in India. I have always treasured every moment around me, and the only way to capture it is with a camera. I began working in research programs, and over time, I began photographing the events to revisit the trip. Through the trip to the highlands is for the lovers of the frozen peaks, where I obtained diverse perspectives of the mountains from the locals. The photos portray the stories of the highland and the people living in it. Through the journey I was able to grow personally and professionally. The photographs tell the stories of the Highlands and the people who live there. I was able to evolve both personally and professionally as a result of the voyage.
@oliver_dema @nexeer_220497
thinley220497@gmail.com 12
Traditional attire, Royal Highland Festival, Laya
Companionship
“A dead nomad is reborn a yak, a dead yak is reborn a nomad”
The dramatic and intimidating mountain over Lingzhi district represents cosmological beliefs of the locals
The highlands are the heart and soul of the nomads and the herd animals 13
Ugyen Norbu My name is Ugyen Norbu, I am 31 years old. I have been working as an engineer in the Road Safety & Transport Authority for a decade now. I am very passionate about photography, and have taught myself fundamentals of photography such as rule of composition, color theory, exposure etc. In addition, I am well versed in digital photography manipulation. However, I am a bit of a puritan, and I strive to ‘get it right’ in the camera. I was first introduced to the art of photography when I had the good fortune of interacting with a Pulitzer Prize winning photographer who visited Bhutan in 2016. Photography equipment do not come cheap, but through my photographic journey, I have come to believe that it is not so much about gadgets – which helps, of course – as it is about acquiring a keen eye for compelling photographs.
unorbu2019@gmail.com Thimphu skyline 14
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Me, my dog and handwash station 16
Walk of life 17
Tashi Phuntsho I am Tashi Phuntsho, seeking to learn the art of photography. I have graduated from the College of Science and Technology and currently serving as IT Officer in a Financial Institute. The passion for visiting and exploring new places in this wonderful kingdom has aspired me to seek a way to keep those beautiful memories forever. And photography has provided that means. Having the ability to capture those special moments in life is the greatest gift of photography. Photography, to me, is an expression of how I wish to see something. Building a composite in that camera frame with limited dimension provides you an unlimited amount of possibilities of how your world would look. The greatest joy of photography is when you see those photos while browsing through your phone, computer, or on the wall and you remember that feeling of being there in that moment and reliving those memories. tashiiphuntsho@gmail.com 18
Domendrel summit
Sky burial site at Bumdrak
Yum Tsho, on the way to Dragaypang Tsho 19
Karma Dendup My name is Karma Dendup and I am studying Animation and VFX in India. I am from Trashi yangtse and most of my life, I have spent in Trashi yangtse and my passion for photography led to taking a lot of moments from my hometown. The photos I have submitted are mostly taken in Trashi yangtse and it tells the stories from my hometown. I am always fascinated by the simplicity of rural Bhutan and my hometown and I always prefer to take photos of rural Bhutan. There are a lot of stories we can tell through photos in rural Bhutan and I am looking forward to enjoying taking pictures of rural Bhutan.
karmadendup1999@gmail.com 20
Black-Necked Cranes
Happy Farmer
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Chilli Seeds 22
Gateway chorten, Sakten 23
Bhakti Sharma Koirala I am Bhakti Sharma Koirala from Tsholingkhar, Tsirang. I am 24 years old. I am a graduate and have knowledge and experience in forest science. I love flora and fauna. I like moving in the woods. The passion of photography evolved in me when I was studying forestry courses. I always took photos of nature and the places I visit. I also write articles on animals and plants whenever I am free.
The biodiversity that we hold should be protected. It has to be broadcasted through various platforms. Not only has it attracted the human eye but also tiny organisms for food and shelter. It is important to care for our pristine biodiversity. The affection and love towards nature is the way to conserving our biodiversity. We human should make our eye green and heart beautiful like flowers.
bhakti65sharma@gmail.com 24
The fruit of pollination is the hard work of the bee
When you hunt predators, the best camouflage is weakness 25
Passang Tshering I am working as a freelance tour guide. I completed the trekking course in 2018 winter. Followed by bird watching course and nature course in 2020. Nature course is something much related to tour guide’s work. And the training is simply awesome whereby we can get to know more about wildlife. Slowly my heart gets very close to the nature, so I can’t think of disturbing the habitat of the species instead it pinched me to conserve it. In between I even participated in short workshops like First Aid Training and GNH Orientation workshop twice. Besides guiding, I am a dessung. For the past few years I have served the nation in various events like mega devotions, national day, football duty, and pandemic duty. I enjoy taking photographs mainly of nature.
Yellow-bellied Fantail
shering.bhutan
shering_bhutan
tsheringpassang92@gmail.com 26
Common Myna
Golden Bush-Robin 27
Yellow Helen 28
Leopard Lacewing 29
Arun Rai My name is Arun Rai from Sangacholing, Samtse. Currently I am working in Department of Forest and Park Services in Thimphu. I started photography as my hobby since 2006 and I thought photography was the easiest hobby. But as I learn more about photography, I realized I knew very little about it and I am constantly learning the art of photography.
In the beginning, I used to take picture and just store it in my computer self-contained. But with the advent and increased popularity of photo sharing web platforms and social media, I started sharing my photo and that’s when I started learning more from feedback and critics received from other photographers. Today, my photography is more oriented towards nature, macro, and landscape and occasionally I venture into portrait photography too. arun.rai.940
arunrai1022
arunrai.ar@gmail.com 30
Honey bee posing for closeup shoot before sucking the nectar from flower
Beautiful early morning sunrays penetrating through the old forest growth, Hontsho 31
River flowing through the pristine forest valley, Dodeyna
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A fast flowing river at the bottom of Cheri Monastery
Panoramic view of settlement at Bajothang, Wangduephodrang …the new and the old 33
Badal Khatiwara My name is Badal Khatiwara and I am 18 years old. I am currently a first year college student studying engineering. My passion for photography started from a very young age and I am a self-taught nonprofessional photographer. I mostly do landscape and nature photography, Bhutanese architecture and few portraits. I am a mobile photographer and I have been following my passion since my high school till date. I want to participate in this exhibition to develop my photography skills through other photographers and to promote my photography to others. My passion drives me to have my camera wherever I go and click the most beautiful view I see.
badal khatiwara badal.02
badalkhatiwara7730@gmail.com 34
A horse at the base of Taktsang
Illusion
The inner eye 35
Bhupen Ghimiray I’m Bhupen Ghimiray co-founder of Lavanya Films and Photography, an entrepreneur, videographer and photographer. I graduated with B.A. Economics & Environmental Studies from Royal Thimphu College. I have diploma in photography from Norway and I’m an alumni of SAESM (South Asian Economics student’s Meet). I work as an official photographer for Australia Awards Bhutan and freelance photographer for Druk Asia. Furthermore, I worked in Scan cafe and MakeMyTrip.com in 2015 as assistant tour manager.
In 2017, I won the Nationwide Our Gyenkhu Photo Contest. I did my first photo exhibition in Norway during ISFIT 2013. I contributed pictures and poems for the first edition of Echo Change; International English Youth magazine in Ukraine (2015). Participated in the blog competition on, “Envisioning Green Growth in Cities of the Future in South Asia” by World Bank in Nepal (2012). Now, as an avid traveler and photographer I run my own business. lavanyafilmsandphotography
Lastillutionist & lavanya_bhutan bghim91@gmail.com 36
Architectural wonder, Juneydrak Hermitage, Haa
The reviving ruins of the Drugyel Dzong
Stunning architecture of Rinpung Dzong; the fortress of the heap of jewels
Zuri Dzong built in 1352, Paro (one of the oldest Dzong) 37
Lhendup My name is Lhendup and I was born in central Bhutan. I have a diploma in photography and journalism, photo finishing, and lab management. Besides photography, I have undergone courses on journalism and attended various seminars such as South Asian Photojournalist Association, and I am a member of Asian Journalist Association.
I worked as Chief Photojournalist for Business Bhutan and Bhutan Observer newspapers. I also worked as photographer for political parties and as Manager at Pelwang Colour Lab in Thimphu. I am also a professional tour guide and tourism photographer and my photos have appeared in Drukair in-flight magazine, Tashi Delek, local and international publications. Besides it, I also train people on photography. click_bhutan
clicklhendup@gmail.com 38
A mask dancer in flight, Dochula Tshechu 39
Black Hat Dance, Paro Tshechu 40
Traditional women dancers performing at the Thimphu Tshechu 41
Cheki Dorji My name is Cheki Dorji. I’m a self-taught fine art landscape photographer based at Thimphu. I love to capture color and atmospheric photography capturing simplistic landscapes and turning them into fine art landscape photographs.
My photography journey first started back in 2010 and from the first moment, I fell in love with the work. My very first inspiration towards photography came to me when I was trying to capture close up picture of flowers from my friend’s small digital camera during summer vacation. That inspired me to capture things differently from what we see through our eyes. Now, it has been 8 years I have been into photography.
chesaddorji@gmail.com 42
Bumdra “The land of thousand foot prints”
Winter wonderland of highlanders
The blessed mountains of Ap Gyenyen
Punakha Dzong “The Palace of great Happiness” 43
Choidup Zangpo I am Choidup Zangpo from Yangmalashing, Decheling Gewog, Pemagatshel Dzongkhag. I am serving as a Communication Technician working with the Information and Communication Technology Division under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forests since 2000 to date. My official responsibility includes the photo coverage during various RNR events. My photography has been widely used in the print media/website/news/RNR publications and documentary programs creating awareness to a wider audience. With more than 22 years working experience in photography, I look after the digital photo database for the Ministry.
I have been trained in Commercial and Art Photography from the School for Commercial Arts and Photography (SCAP) National Technical Training Institute (NTTA) in Thimphu. I have also gained various short-term trainings in both digital/analog still Photography. I am very enthusiastic to learn new things and share my personal experiences with all and also a hardworking and an approachable person with always ready to help others. czangpo@moaf.gov.bt
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Flour Mill, Tang
Aum Jomo Kukhar Tsho, Merak 45
Layaps, the indigenous people living in the high mountains of Laya rearing yaks for their livelihood 46
Sakten village: one of the highland villages stands out as a distinct attraction in the country 47
Dechen Choden My name is Dechen Choden. I studied Bachelor of Computer Applications at Dayanand Sagar Institution, Bangalore, India. I have always been interested in photography and in the past most of my pictures were captured through the lenses of my phone. Few months back my parents gifted a camera since they realized I developed love for photography. I took part in India Bhutan friendship photo story competition while I was still experimenting with my new camera. I stood second in the photo contest. And this motivated me to participate in this open photo exhibition.
.k.c.d.c.
deechoden5@gmail.com 48
While taking the photos, I was visualizing the people in the olden days. They walked barefoot and carried swords for self defense and protection. I tried to capture images to depict old days. I was lucky to find the perfect background to make it more real. I think the old ancient walls helped in making the photos more realistic. The gho and the sword in the photos are my family treasure. They have a unique history. These belonged to my great grand uncle Trongsa Zimpoen Dhendu. They were given to him by His Majesty Jigme Wangchuck, The Second King of Bhutan. I have always believed in the saying that photography is the window to the world. I hope when people look at these photos they speak out what I am trying to depict.
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Dorji Phuntsho I am Dorji Phuntsho, Born on March 13, 1994 in an isolated village in the hand of humble and low income family under Samdrup Jongkhar Dzongkhag. I always find pleasure and joy capturing the beauty of nature, people and landscape and to freeze the beautiful moment which is captured forever. I am not a professional photographer, but a passionate photographer who started photography at a very early age. Started with old reel camera to Nikon and Cannon DSLR now, it was my passion that keeps me going as a photographer for about 15 years. I am a selftaught and develop my skill through my own experience. I am currently an Environmentalist, working in National Environment Commission Secretariat. I did Environmental Engineering from Sam Higgin bottom University of Agriculture Technology and Sciences (SHUATS), India. I am the admin of page named Inside_bhutan on Facebook and Instagram. insidebhutan143@gmail.com
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Landing with beauty
Dochula with painted sky at backdrop
Reflections: Little monk
Cow herder with her two beauties, on the way to Haa, Damthang
Reflections: Buddha 51
Reflections: Punakha Dzong 52
Reflections: Memorial Chorten 53
Dukda Dorji My name is Dukda Dorji from Gangtey, Wangdue Dzongkhag. I have been photographing for almost 3 years now. Being an ungraduated and living in a remote village, people usually don’t expect me to carry a camera. Despite that, I have never been discouraged and been inseparable with photography. My love for photography was discovered when I went for a hiking and saw views that I have never seen before. I took some pictures from my first smart phone and showed it to my friends and family from which they gave me very positive remarks. For the first time, I felt really appreciated for something that is not related to my individual life. Ever since that day, I have been visiting different places to take photographs. Landscape photography and wildlife photography are my favorites.
dukda25@gmail.com 54
Beautiful and rare
Solitude
Gangtey Goenpa
Enlightenment 55
Jamyang Tshering I am Jamyang Tshering. I was born to a middle class monk family in the west line of the country (Haa), in the year 1997. I was always fascinated by the influence of international photographers and digital artists who don’t fail to inspire me through their photographs. Although I had to take up the government scholarship pursuing B.A in Language and Literature from the College of Language and Culture Studies, Trongsa, my inclination towards multimedia and photography was natural. My parents couldn’t afford a DSLR camera for me, but that didn’t stop me from doing what I am fond of. Everywhere I travelled I had my android phone with me that assisted me capturing stories I encounter. I still capture photographs on my phone even when I think I could afford a camera now because I think it’s not about expensive gears you use rather it’s about the way you look at things differently and using what you have. Telling stories through a photograph is what I strived for and will always strive for. jameyaang
jamyangphotography2@gmail.com 56
In Persuit of enlightenment
Joyful siblings
The pride 57
Time capsule 58
Wrinkles through time 59
A simple friendship 60
Roasted corn 61
Jamyang Tenzin I am a fresh graduate from Motithang High School. Since I was a child, I had immense interest in photography and took photos of the events in my life and made albums to cherish and remember those special moments when I grow up. Now even at the age of 18, my interest and passion for photography is as same as it was when I was a kid.
My main goal for photography is to share the beauty, strength, culture and traditions of the mighty Himalayan country (Bhutan) to the world. Even if my curtain closes and my color fades, my photographs will remain in the world to tell the stories to the younger generation and so on. Just like the photos create happiness to me, I hope that the same feeling can be felt by the audience and experience happiness. Even if I get employed to some other jobs, I would never leave the art of photography as it is a medicine and a way to escape reality. jtenzin210@gmail.com 62
Being born as animals is a blessing in this Himalayan country
Chorten Kora, Tashi Yangste
Lhuentse Dzong
A lone chorten 63
Karma Lekpel Jamtsho I am Karma Lekpel Jamtsho currently working at the National Soil Services Center (NSSC) under the Department of Agriculture, MoAF in Thimphu. After completing high school from my hometown Lhuentse High School, I did a diploma from the College of Natural Resources in General Agriculture.
Heavenly path, Phojikha
As soon as I completed my diploma from the College of Natural Resources 2016, I joined National Soil services Center as Soil and Plant Nutrition Supervisor on 1 January 2017.
karma.lekpel.jamtsho555@gmail.com 64
Sensation
I stand with nature, Phajodhing, Thimphu 65
Kelzang Dorji
I am Kelzang Dorji, an Ardent Wildlife Photographer. I am a Para veterinarian by profession and enthusiast wildlife photographer by passion. My images represent an event that occurred in the wild something that I witnessed and recorded with my camera. It is now my 6th year I have been taking pictures of wildlife, more preferably of birds. Through this journey of photography I have learnt how we can interpret the things from different prospective.
Wildlife photography to me is like a contemplating mindfulness in pristine environment. I feel contented whenever I take pictures in the woods and observing them in their natural habitats. Wildlife photography allows me to be out in nature and among wild animals, to have an excuse to watch those animals for long periods of time, and then to press a shutter and visually preserve a fascinating moment in natural history or a moment of great beauty. kelzang.dorji.14 kelzang1988
kdorji@thimphu.gov.bt 66
Black-face (Abroscopus schisticeps) warbler brews nectar
Vibrant Eurasian Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) on the wings of a prayer
Buddha Dordenma, Shakyamuni Buddha statue at night
Rufous-necked hornbill (Aceros nipalensis) perches for solar energy
Iconic Blood Pheasant (Ithaginis cruentus), feeds on morning moss 67
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Nature’s palette, Lhamoidzingkha
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Kencho Wangdi Kuzuzangpola! I am Kencho Wangdi, selfemployed and a photographer. After completing my college, I have served in Druk air for about 7 years, and finally decided to pursue my passion in photography and to do other creative works. I am currently managing ‘Bhutan Design & Photography’ team that offers photography, graphic design & printing services and videography works. One of my recent startup is “CHHOM” a souvenir from Bhutan brand. We have already started with souvenir T-shirts and we plan to introduce more Bhutan design gears and giftware.
bhutan_dp
kenchowhaa@gmail.com 70
Phobjikha Valley , 2019
Paddy Plantation, Paro Valley, 2020 71
The Royal Highlander Festival, Laya, 2017 72
Nima and Dawa
The dancer’s prayer
Paro Tshechu, 2019 73
Paro Taktsang Base, 2019 74
Paddy Plantation, Paro valley, 2014 75
Kencho Wangmo I am one of the passionate photographers and inclined more towards watching and photographing the Astro. The photos I submitted are of the moon that is recently photographed during full moon day in Paro. The photo depicts the reality of the fairy tale of building castle in the moon. The photo of Bjela Goenpa with the backdrop of moon makes very special of the photo. There is very limited watcher of astronomy in Bhutan and it is through my photo, I want to motivate the people and youth in watching the astronomy.
Kenchowang88
kenchowang88@gmail.com 76
Bjela Goenpa with the backdrop of moon
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Kinga Pem My name is Kinga Pem from Khamdang, Trashi Yangtse. I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in BA Media Studies and Dzongkha from the Sherubtse College in the year 2016. I have almost 5 years of experience in media, communication, public relations and marketing. I work in the External Relations Department (DERD) at the Royal Thimphu College (RTC) as Marketing Officer, before which I interned at the Samdrup Jongkhar Initiative (SJI - a Civil Society Organization) as a Promotional Video Developer.
kinga_pem
kingapem@rtc.bt 78
Embrace the change
Calmness and Chaos 79
Leki Wangdi I am Mr. Leki Wangdi born on 22 March 1984 at Nagorpang under Silambi Gewog, Mongar Dzongkhag and married with one son. Currently I am working as a Park Ranger in Lunana Park Range under management of Jigme Dorji National Park, Gasa.
After my graduation in June 2009 from Ugyen Wangchuk Institute for Conservation and Environment (UWICE) in Bumthang, Bhutan. Initially, I was posted to Laya Park Range under Jigme Dorji National Park, Gasa District under DoFPS, where I served for more than seven years, starting from July, 2009 to April, 2017. My career goal is to become a professional conservationist and contribute to best of my capability to the future of my country and the world in environment management and conservation arena. In the immediate future, I see myself heading important conservation tasks through progressive career elevations. And the photography has become my keen interest for the conservations in my life. Captured here are the Himalayan Musk Deer. luckywangs07@gmail.com
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Namgay Lhamo I am Namgay Lhamo, an amateur photographer. I love to capture small beautiful details that most of us don’t notice. Being fond of photography, the journey started from simple Nokia phone to smart phones today. I love the way pictures and ideas are brought together so beautifully the people. Photography not only has been enhancing my way of seeing the world but also brings immense peace in mind and adds satiety to the day. With time, I switched to canon camera to resonate ideas and picture together with higher resolution. I am thankful for such platform.
recalling midnight thoughts nahmoo23@gmail.com 84
We are different, we shine at different place and time 85
Namgyal Wangchuk My name is Namgyal Wangchuk and I live in Thimphu. By profession, I’m an airline pilot with the national carrier of Bhutan. Growing up, I have always been fascinated by 3 things around me - the beautiful landscape in our country, aviation and photography. I’m truly blessed to have turned my dreams of becoming a pilot into reality. I’m privileged to experience so many wonderful things that come along with it. And I’m even more grateful to be able to carry along my camera with me on my journeys and pursue my hobby for photography. Through the photos that I’ve taken, I’ve tried to encapsulate the majestic environment that we are blessed with here in Bhutan and also the unique aviation industry established in our country with Paro being one of the most challenging airfields in the world. Not only is the experience to fly into Paro exhilarating, flights outbound to our neighboring countries bring about amazing views as well. thenovice.pilot
nwpark7@hotmail.com 86
A view of Mt. Everest (#1) Mt. Lotse (#4) and Mt.Makalu (#5) 87
Namzang Kuenzang Namgyel I never thought that I can touch the extraordinary art of work and equipment with my ordinary hand. I fell in love with photography at the age of 18 and I started to take pictures from my phone, I can cope up with phone photography and had few amazing shots. Then I fell in love with camera and I asked my family to support me, after a year I got my first camera at the age of 19. It’s amazing that from photography, I can feel the story and its nature that I will never forget in my life. The people, mother nature, animals, religion and culture. It is true that “pictures speak louder than words”. My passion is photography and I love taking pictures.
namzang1999@gmail.com 88
Horses rushing in the valley of beautiful Phobjikha 89
Norbu Gyeltshen I am Norbu Gyeltshen, a freelance photographer based in Thimphu. It has been an interesting journey of my life from being curious about photography in the past and getting to pursue it right now. As a child, I was always fond of photography and later after high school; I got an opportunity to get a few months of basic photography training provided by MoLHR in 2017. Since then, I have continued to keep my interest and develop the skills on it. I even took part in a photography competition held by the Indian Embassy in collaboration with Bhutan Echoes this year and stood the first position. This event has made me realize that I am able to tell a story through my photographs and it motivated me to continue telling stories through photography. Gyaltshen Jason Caecy gyaltshensdiary
norbug13@gmail.com 90
Impermanence
The wings of Varanasi
Impermanence
Media in Bhutan
Engraved on the pillar of the bell 91
Om Bdr. Gurung I am Om Bdr. Gurung. I’m 50 years old from Nichula Gewog, Dagana Dzongkhag working under Security & Fire Wing at Punatshangchhu-II Hydroelectric Project Authority. I usually take time to enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature and take photos. Whenever I take a photo it gives a glimpse of happiness and peace in mind and feels like Mother Nature gives their best post to me. I was awarded third position in an open photography competition organized by No Worries last year. With this award I had got more opportunities and contributed more amazing photo to the above mentioned organizer and receive more support from the online sale proceedings. It also boosts my inspiration and interest, making me to open my creativity to snap my photo and capture the movement of time. oscarmikegrg@gmail.com 92
Spiritual walk
Reconstruction of Wangduephodrang Dzong
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Pem Dechen Topgay My name is Pem Dechen Topgay from Thimphu. Most of the photos that I take and have taken are from a moving car. Because most moments in life are fleeting, here now and gone the next minute just like when we travel. You never travel the same road twice. There is always something new to experience. However the click of a camera has the ability to capture a specific moment and be forever frozen in that time frame. As I grow older I am beginning to understand how limited our time on this earth is and how it’s important to cherish every moment as it. Moreover I can understand why we are so patriotic- it is the essence of our country, the essence of Bhutan. Hence, my photographs allow me to do just that - relive fleeting moments in a country where “Happiness is a place”. pemdtopgay
pemdtopgay@gmail.com 94
The journey
“Happiness is a place” 95
Pema Lhaden Topgay My name is Pema Lhaden Topgay from Thimphu, currently taking a gap year before college to figure out which path in life I want to take. Sometimes I feel invincible like I can control the whole world but sometimes I feel like Chicken Little, like the sky’s falling and no one else can see it. I am a great believer of luck and I find that the harder I work, the more I have of it. With time I developed an interest in taking pictures because photos are like a return ticket to a moment otherwise gone. I take so many pictures whichever way I go; that I keep deleting my apps to make space for my photos, no amount of space is ever enough. This I wanted to capture and show in my photos to show what’s there yet never realize, because every picture tells a different story.
pltopgay
pemaltopgay@gmail.com 96
Fruit of labor
97
Ratna Bahadur Dahal My name is Ratna Bahadur Dahal and I am a teacher by profession, currently I am doing my Masters at Samtse College of Education. I am a passionate photographer though I didn’t get any formal Photography training until now. Yet, I take photographs of my interest such as beautiful things, places and people through my lens. I am a beginner but surely someday I will be able to take some good photographs.
ratnabahadurdahalbhutan
ratnabahadurdahal@education.gov.bt 98
Defiance 99
Sancha Bdr. Rai Sancha Bdr. Rai is a schoolteacher at Zhemgang CS, a blogger, passionate photographer, avid nature lover and a social worker. He is also the BTO (Bhutan Toilet Ambassador) at Zhemgang District. Besides his normal duties he loves reading and writing. He maintains a blog post at sancharai.blogspot.com. He writes on various subjects, topics that interest him. He often writes on the education system, nature, sanitation, clean drinking water and waste management. Photography also occupies a special place in his heart and often seen him writing on this subject with wildlife, landscape and some portraits. Nevertheless, more recently he serves as the “Global School Advocates” from Bhutan. Sancha Rai(dilpali)
the_talking_mountains
sanchabdrrai89@education.gov.bt 100
The world’s largest pocket that holds love for animals
Beautiful and death defying 101
The queen of nectar –Life in the wings 102
Age is simply a number 103
Shanti Limbu My name is Shanti Limbu. I have completed my Bachelor’s degree from Sherubtse College in B.A Media studies and English. I believe taking pictures is the best way to capture memories and portray the stories we fail to express through words. Photography has always been my passion and my remedy to calm my agitated feelings. I also love to travel and read books.
her_footsteps_19
limbushanti777@gmail.com 104
The bridge to…
An incomplete piece can also give serenity! 105
Sonam Tobgay My name is Sonam Tobgay and I am a photography enthusiast based in Thimphu. My idea of a fun time is to travel and go on adventures. Exploring and photographing beautiful landscapes makes me a happy man. I love night and Astro photography; my pursuit of a nocturnal passion. Venturing out during the night has always been thrilling and if you observe, nights have some of the most breathtaking displays. Capturing these moments of the night is always amazing. I love spending time with my daughter and trying out portrait photography with her. In all the years to come, I hope to continue exploring, learning, photographing and sharing my art with the world. Cheers!
aptobto@gmail.com 106
Blood Moon, Kuenselphodrang, 2018
Victorious
Infinity 107
108
The Union
109
Tandin Dorji I am Tandin Dorji, currently doing my undergrads at Norbuling Rigter College, Paro. I have completed my high school from Ugyen Academy where I got opportunities to make advertisements for Ugyen Academy Football Club and also do photography for the football team where I gained lot of experiences. From my early ages, I found myself to be interested in snapping memories. I later gave a boost to my photography by creating a page on Instagram namely Tandin Photography. I feel that it’s the time for media to boost this generation and anyone can use photography as a means to show their emotions and feelings to the world and people will listen to your story through beautiful snaps. I also do feel that photography is not a must do activity but it leads a person to carefully understand the beauty in everything. tandin_65d
tandind673@gmail.com 110
Harvesting
111
Karma Wangmo I am twenty-two years old, Karma Wangmo from Goenpa, Chaskhar Gewog under Mongar Dzongkhag. I am currently studying in Gedu College of Business Studies under Chukha Dzongkhag in Second year of B.Com (Accounting) as my course. Being the only daughter in my family, I was raised by my Mother to learn some textile work such as weaving, knitting and so on. On top of that being a business student I have to think of business activities, competition on any field and I participate in most of the activities. My family and friends gave me full support in upgrading my interest. I am working hard to own my business in texture activity like weaving, knitting and designing some textile products. Being a passionate learner in designing and texture activity, I start to learn from expert weavers, browse different websites, watch various video tutorial and follow different page of designing and texture activity through Facebook, YouTube and Instagram. When I saw the announcement of Open Photo Exhibition by @rtabhutan, I thought it would be great opportunity to showcase my product and my talent as a beginner of future designer and with the definitive goal of becoming a professional photographer. k_Wang.mo
karmawangmo586@gmail.com 112
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Tendel Wangdi I am Tendel Wangdi from Pemathang, Samdrup Cholling under Samdrup Jongkhar Dzongkhag Born and brought up in the hand of a humble farmer. I completed higher secondary school from Orong Central School in the year 2013 with Bio-Science and have the Diploma in Forestry from College of Natural Resources. In 2017, I was recruited as a Forest Ranger-II in Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS), one of the smallest protected areas of Bhutan. This golden opportunity has also enhanced my love and passion towards Wildlife photography. Moreover, I am a keen birder and recorded two new bird species (Pin-tailed Parrotfinch in 2018 and Indian Spot-billed Duck in 2020) from PWS which are new record to the country as well. tendel.wangdi.9
wangdi.10del@gmail.com 114
Balancing act
Predator alert Spotted deer
115
Greetings Mr. photographer 116
Hoopoe with a sumptuous grub meal 117
Preying on frog Cattle Egret
Peacock with a magic call 118
Hunt or being hunted Jerdons Bazza
Wreathed Hornbill 119
Tenzin Rinchen I am Tenzin Rinchen, a monk who studied at Kabji Choeten Nyingpo Goenzin Monastery, Punakha. I am currently 20 years old and I got enrolled in the monkhood as per my interest after completing class 6. From early age of my life, I have always been fascinated by photos and natural scenes. I use social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram to share my photos and videos. I mostly stroll out in and around the recreational areas and parks during free times for photography. During holidays, I usually team up with friends to trek in the forest and mountains to take beautiful photos of trees and plants, lakes and mountains and other natural habitats. Until today, I have photographed and collected more than thousand photos of beautiful nature and places. And I look forward to continuing my passion in photography. GyelWang Photography gyel_wang
tenzinrin2000@gmail.com 120
Mind over matter
Tshering Dechen I am Tshering Dechen, a fourth-year law student at Jigme Singye Wangchuck School of Law. I am from Trongsa and being brought up in the village, I have a keen interest in taking pictures of nature, specifically the sky. The beauty of the emptiness never fails to awestruck me. With the advancement of technology, all of us have slowly started looking down to the ground more and less to the sky that we often forget to enjoy the beauty above us, the empty hazy. The theme I selected for the photographs is ‘the almost flawless beauty.’ With this theme, I intend to convey the message about appreciating the strangely stippled decorations above us at the same time as we march with technology.
tshering.dechen
tshering.dechen.2022@jswlaw.bt 121
Dramatically beautiful
Tenzin Gyeltshen Wangyel Born towards the beginning of the early 2000s, I grew up surrounded by cameras. With great privilege, my life was documented with silly footages from cellphones and old camcorders. Although I broke and lost two cameras in my pre-photography years, I never go a day without touching my camera. With the help of my uncle Sangay Khandu, I learned the basics of photography and realized there was more to cameras than just aimlessly shooting, hoping for a good shot. Inspired by my friend, l started taking pictures more seriously in mid-2019. Through daily YouTube tutorials and meeting experienced photographers on social media, I try to learn something every week. Ultimately, storytelling is his ultimate goal and photography is just a medium of expression.
tenpuzzles
wtenzin25@gmail.com 122
Innocence and joy
Burmese Lady
Fisherman in Burma 123
Thinley Wangchuk Thinley Wangchuk is a photography enthusiast and videographer based in Samtengang, Wangduephodrang, Bhutan. His current profession is teaching, and he has Masters’ Degree in Chemistry from Samtse College of Education, Royal University of Bhutan. His images are fun, creative and exciting and his love for passion of photography makes its way into most of his images. Some of his favorite photography genres are portraits, street, landscape, and bird photography. He has sound ICT skills and the photo-post production software he mostly used is Adobe photo shop CC and adobe light room classic. Further, he has sound knowledge on video post-production as he had availed training in video post-production and special effects in CDAC, Mohali, and Chandigarh, funded by ITEC. He has also YouTube channel “Thinleex Creation” and currently he has 3.762k subscribers and similarly Facebook page namely “Thinleex Photo Diary” where he uploads his work to exhibit to the audience across the globe. Thinleex’s Photo Diary thinleext@gmail.com 124
E-Learning during lockdown 125
Thinley Jamtsho I am Thinley Jamtsho (ocean) a monk from Haa Dumcho, I completed my Buddhist philosophy studies from Palpung Sherabling Monastery India under the guidance of his eminence TAI SITU RINPOCHE. For me photography is the king of art that captures every art, I started photography in 2008 with my phone. I like taking photos of the bird, people and nature. I don’t have any skills at starting but the more time I spend with the camera the more skill I gained, so never create thoughts of giving up before trying it and never give up after trying it, in 11 years of photography I learned that patience and concentration are must in photography.
Oceanography
nimchu777@gmail.com 126
Curiosity
Angay 127
128
Buddha in clouds
At peace 129
Tshechu Dorji Wong Started Photography as hobby since my school days at Punakha High School from 1987. In 1988 summer I had the opportunity to work with the first ever legendary feature film Gasa Lamai Singye for two weeks since the main shootings were at Punakha. My interest in photography grew more and my interest to videography also developed. In 1991, 24 September I attended a workshop on Videography conducted by the Film Company, Ugetsu Communication, Thimphu and also attended an Entrepreneurship course conducted by UNIDO In May 1992. After getting an Audio-visual license in 1992, I produced 2 feature films, more than 70 documentary films for various organizations in various topics. Many years in the same field, my passion for Photography never dies. Still with my cameras wherever I am learning and earning continues as the learning never ends. Tshechu D Wong
systimaxntertain@gmail.com 130
Glorious colors
Seeing is Believing UNEP’s Champion of the Earth’ award 2005 for Bhutan
131
Transferring knowledge of age old traditions: father and daughter 132
Break time 133
Tshering Tobgay The photos submission here are all the enigmatic and most beautiful birds found in Bhutan that depict the diverse and rich bird species of Bhutan. The art of photographing the bird has tremendously got popular in Bhutan in last few years and the trend will continue to become popular hobby for the Bhutanese.
Satyr Tragopan
I have been watching birds since 2013 and all these photographs indicate my deep passion in watching, photographing and conserving the bird species of Bhutan. It is through the photograph of birds, I help in spreading the biodiversity conservation message to the people of Bhutan. The bird photographing also help in influencing the youth to take up the art of wildlife photography as a hobby. The most of the bird photographs submitted here are rare ones to Bhutan and includes the sighting made from different places of Bhutan. ttobgay2
tsheringtobgay7@education.gov.bt 134
Blood Pheasant
Himalayan Griffon
135
136
Rufous-necked Hornbill
Pallas’s Fish Eagle
White-bellied Heron
Common Kingfisher
Himalayan Monal
137
Tshewang Chogyel I am Tshewang Chogyel, from Wang Jamdo, an ancestral home town of Ap Wang Drugay and Jamdo Goensa Lham under Mewang Gewog, Thimphu Dzongkhag. I did my schooling from Motithang High School, Thimphu and completed my graduation on Bachelor of Business Administration from Sikkim Manipal University, India. I am a businessman by profession. I ran a cottage industry business mainly specialized with traditional crafts on bronze Casting. Although I have no formal training on photography, I have keen interest on still image photography. I am a passionate photographer, desirous to learn more. I enjoyed being engaged as a photographer at my kid’s school on their programe and activities like school cultural show, sports etc.
Duthroe Sumpa (sky burial) Chorten, Bumdra, Paro
tshegyelphotography
tshegyel91277@gmail.com 138
Domendrel Tsho, Punakha
Make shift bridge over Moa Khola river 139
Ugyen Tenzin I am Ugyen Tenzin, Photography enthusiast based in Thimphu. Best friend of Nikon camera. I Love taking picture of just about anything.
Viewfinder.bt
viewfinder_bt
ugyen.tenzin86@gmail.com 140
“Happiness is days of innocence.” Remote school in Zhemgang district
Black-necked cranes’ paradise, Phobjikha
141
142
Sometimes, you just need to change your altitude to get the best view
Tashichho Dzong: Snow in spring
Dechen Phodrang Monastery in Thimphu
Sunrise, Bumthang valley
Monk Chefs, Buli, Zhemgang
143
Upasana Dahal Upasana Dahal is a passionate Bhutanese photographer and a filmmaker and has worked with many international firms and production houses across the globe. With her love for cameras, she is inspired to capture stories of societies and take it to the corners of the world. She has a master’s degree in Mass Communication with video production. She hopes to inspire individuals sharing stories from around the world and to encourage women to take up filmmaking and share what matters most for a meaningful living.
oopz14
stylepas@gmail.com 144
Gross National Happiness smile
Preparing yarn hanks for natural dye
Mask Dance at Tshechu, Thimphu
Everyone has a story left untold, Trongsa
145
Watanabe Kozo Watanabe Kozo (Mr.) is Chief Representative of the JICA Bhutan Office. He was in the JICA Vietnam Office (1990’s) and has been involved in the health sector for about 12 years. His special interest is in the strengthening of Health Systems as JICA staff. He was also involved in promoting business and entrepreneur development in Cambodia (2010’s). He started taking picture at the age of 15, continues taking pictures almost 40 years.
watanabekozo
watanabe.kozo@gmail.com 146
Punakha Dzong
Paro after the rain 147
Yeshi Dorji My name is Yeshi Dorji from Chaskhar, Mongar. I completed my high school from Yadi Central School. Currently I am pursuing a law degree at Jigme Singye Wangchuck School of Law. I developed my interest in art and photography since my school days; in the absence of photographic tools and technologies, I found myself sketching various pictures of nature and spiritual symbols. And with the advent of technologies, the cell phone became my tool for capturing amazing views and scenery nature has to provide. With each passing day, I have developed a deep love and interest in photography; so much so that I try to capture at least one scene in a day no matter how busy I am. Of late, I have realized that inadvertently I have captured many photos that manifest and exhibit the beauty of our heavenly country Bhutan. So, the theme of my photography is “Bhutan and its picturesqueness”. Yehëy Dørjêë
yeshi.dorji.2022@jswlaw.bt 148
Sunset 149
Yeshi Jamyang My name is Yeshi Jamyang, 31 years old, working as a part time guide and photographer/social media manager in Blue Poppy tours and treks. I did a degree in BCA from India, Chennai. I was keen in exploring bits and corners of Bhutan, which tuned me to tourism as a tour guide in 2014. I have been passionate about crafting histories and myths along with pictures and art. I write articles and stories relating to the places and people bringing stories to live. Few of my photographs and stories are covered by some global private organizations in social media. I have won 2nd price in photo contest by National Environment Commission (NEC) on wildlife protection. Today, I have extended my limit to Audio visual production. I made few commercial advertisements, promotional videos and also musical videos. yeshjamya.bht@gmail.com 150
Window to the future
Himalayan pony 151
Guardain of Peace 152
Room for her child
Swirls
Textile to life 153
Dorji Dhradhul Dorji Dhradhul is the Director-General of the Tourism Council of Bhutan since January 2019. He served as Dzongda (Governor) of Gasa district for almost four years and has worked in various capacities in the fields of agriculture research, policy, and development. Mr. Dhradhul was also the founding Director of the Department of Agriculture Marketing and Cooperatives and the founding Registrar of Cooperatives in Bhutan. He published a number of articles on subjects of contemporary relevance in the National newspaper, including a novel title Escapades: Awakenings.
Door to heaven
Pyramids of Gasa (Giza):
dorji.dhradhul
dhradhul@gmail.com 154
Gasa Gaze: This is at Gasa hotsprings (Tshachu).
Raven Crown Genekha 155
Galeem Singye in Trees: These two blue pine trees standing just outside the Gasa Dzong were once the only blue pines in Khatoed Gewog of Gasa. The locals believe these trees to be Galeem and Singye - Bhutan’s greatest lovers
156
Galeem House: This is the house of Galeem today in Changyul, Punakha. Presently it is not being used for safety reasons.
Singye Room : This is the room used by Gasa Lamai Singye during his stay in Gasa. It is in Gasa Dzong and is being used.
Boulder of Love: This is a top surface of a huge boulder lying in a stream located about 5 km from Tashithang towards Gasa. Locals believe this is the boulder on which Gasa Lamai Singye met with the soul of Galeem. Singye was on his way to Punakha from Gasa not knowing that Galeem had already committed suicide and her body was already on pyre but soul came up to this place and to meet her love Singye.
157
Singye Room
Sangay Tenzin I am Sangay Tenzin (deco), born in October 25, 1989. I am a Managing Director and Proprietor Of Zhenphen Yongdrup Studio and I am a founder of DECO ST PHOTOGRAPHY- a Bhutanese Photographer on social media. I have a Bachelor’s Degree from Sree Ramu College of Arts and Science (Bharathier University), and Masters in Multimedia and animation from Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Simplicity of the past
I am freelance photographer, Graphic Designer and a Filmmaker. I have a wide range of Knowledge in multi-media businesses, ranging from Office Administration/Management/Human Resource & Policy Development, Directing, Editing, Reviewing, Proposal & Planning, Event Coverage, Tutoring & Multi-media (Publicity Design) besides Script, and Screenplay writing. It is now my 8th year working in photography field. I am passionate portrait photographer, fashion photographer, editorial photographer and wildlife photographer, more preferably I do birding. Photography to me is like a mindfulness contemplation in pristine environment. I feel contented whenever I take pictures. sangaytenzin1@gmail.com
158
A game of enthusiasm
Buddha Dordenma
159
Soksom: traditional Bhutanese javelin
Bliss in the wrinkled face 160
Beauty Of Highlander
Positivity origins from being who you are
161
Ugyen I am not a professional photographer but apart from my regular duty, I enjoy taking photographs. Photography is my hobby and is one of the best ways to capture the present moment and then to reminisce over happy times later.
Photography is more than just seeing what is captured. It remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything. As quoted by Mr. Peter Adams “Great photography is about depth of feeling, not about depth of field.”
Druk phayul Tours & Treks ugyendorji49@gmail.com 162
Framed Memorial Chorten
Innocence at the entrance of Gasa Dzong 163