Boothee Thaik Htun – Myanmar
Boothee Thaik Htun started out as an amateur astro-photographer in 2004, and his path to becoming a successful commercial photographer and photography guide was less than direct. He took courses at the Myanmar Photographic Society and attended workshops held by well-known photojournalists starting in 2008. By 2011, with his homeland opening up and allowing a more free press, Boothee landed a job at the Myanmar Times as a staff photographer. Numerous front page and award winning images followed.
“My pursuit of new experiences pushes me to continually evolve my vision, while reminding me of the importance of carrying my camera with humor, compassion and curiosity.” — Boothee Thaik Htun
Although Boothee still does occasional assignment work, he wasn’t as happy as he’d hoped to be as a full time photojournalist. He wanted to do his own thing, and was drawn to the free-wheeling world of travel photography. With camera in hand he decided to drift for a while, to Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Australia, and eventually all the way to Nepal and Mt. Everest!
In 2013 he began Astro-Photo in Yangon, and his commercial career was born. His colorful, energetic image making in combination with his impressive interpersonal skills soon began opening doors to ad agencies, magazines, publishing companies, non-profit organizations, TV shows and celebrities.
He got involved with drone photography in 2015, which is no easy feat in a country so many restrictions on drone use. His fantastic image of Shwedagon Pagoda at night, featured in the book, Above the World – Earth through a Drone’s Eye , came at the cost of having his drone impounded and locked up for over a month!
On photo tour Boothee’s knowledge, enthusiasm, and fun loving nature always make him a favorite:
“Boothee is a warm, personable type who one quickly considers a friend. He was quick to attend to our every need and ensured a comfortable, pleasurable trip. His photographic skills are superb. His has excellent technical skills in all types/makes of camera and proved a valuable asset to our team.” – David Fleeger, USA
“My private Myanmar photo tour workshop with the wonderful Boothee Thaik Htun was absolutely EVERYTHING I could have hoped for. Not only is he an exceptional photographer and leader, but a lovely genuine guy. He’s extremely easy-going and so willing to go above and beyond the call to ensure that you have a good time, a good shoot, feel happy, comfortable, relaxed — but also challenged enough to learn and even go out of your comfort zone trying new techniques.
So I can say without a shadow of doubt that Boothee and Luminous Journeys met and exceeded my expectations and hopes for this tour. It is a trip that will not only remain in my heart forever, but which has left me with a desire to return, not only to a beautiful country but to see a beautiful friendly face again. So thank you and all your team for putting together such a fantastic private photo tour of Myanmar. I shall treasure these memories a lifetime.” – Jayne Rose, UK
