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Tips for capturing a publishable royal photograph
The Nation

Bumrung Phankaek, a photographer based at HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn's Personal Affairs Division, gives advice on how to capture a photo during regal ceremonies which might be publishable in the press.

Tips for capturing a publishable royal photograph

# Try to capture a moment in the photo while the Royal Family member is showing an interest or focusing on something: a note-taking moment, cooking, having a conversation or walking followed by a row of participants.

# Avoid a photo that might be lower the family member's dignity. For instance, if the royal person is very short compared to someone nearby, take a photograph with both sitting on a sofa.

# A photo of the royal person eating or drinking is prohibited.

# Shoot a photo only at an eye-level angle. It's not possible to publish a royal photograph shot from a high angle because this is considered as defamation of royal honour.

# It is prohibited to take royal photograph during movement from lower and higher ground, such as taking a stair step.

# If you know beforehand the royal schedule and place of visit, it's a better idea to set up your camera at a prepared spot and wait until the family member's arrival rather keep following their progress.

# For a close-up photo of a royal smiling face, always leave some blank space over the top of the photo while taking a shot. This is to avoid missing of some part of the head, in which case you cannot use it.

# You will have to stay at least five metres away while taking a photo.

# Only an SLR or film slide camera is allowed. Compact or digital cameras are prohibited for taking a royal photo due to their ease to edit for improper use.

# Before publishing any royal photograph, it is strongly recommended to ask permission from the royal office.

All the information here came from a recent seminar "How to Capture a Photo to Make News", organised by Mahidol University International College.

Watchara Saengsrisin

The Nation