Teachers as Arts Practitioners (TAPs) Project: Artist Spotlight | Mark Lanzuela, Digital Media and Alumni Specialist

Showcasing the Diverse Creative Talents of Our Community

Purnima Ruanglertbutr | TAPs Project Lead | Secondary English Teacher

Visit the inaugural Teachers as Art Practitioners (TAPs) Exhibition, running from 29th January to 7th February 2025 at the Exhibition Hall, Arts Centre, Bangkok Patana School. Among the impressive works by over 30 staff artists is a stunning photography collection by wildlife and nature photographer Mark Lanzuela. Mark’s collection captures the vibrant beauty of Thailand’s national parks, showcasing breathtaking landscapes of the country we call home. Through his lens, he combines artistic passion with a powerful call for conservation. In this interview, Mark shares insights into his creative process, professional background and experiences in the TAPs Continued Professional Learning programme, highlighting how his work celebrates nature while inspiring action to protect our rich biodiversity.

Interview with Mark Lanzuela, Digital Media and Alumni Coordinator

1. Could you tell us a bit about your background and how it influences your photography?

I am a wildlife and nature photographer; my work captures the raw beauty and vulnerability of the natural world. Growing up in the Sierra Madre Mountains of Rizal, Philippines, I developed a deep connection to nature, which continues to inspire my photography. Combining my love for photography, filmmaking, and music, I create visual stories that highlight the importance of conservation. I currently work as a Digital Media and Alumni Specialist at Bangkok Patana School, where I support the school community through digital and visual communication. My passion for visual storytelling aims to raise awareness and inspire action to protect biodiversity.

2. What is the inspiration behind your exhibition collection?

My collection, ขจี (Khaji), is inspired by the lush vibrancy and vitality of Thailand’s national parks. The word ขจี embodies the essence of life, growth, and nature’s resilience, which I have sought to capture through my lens. From the dense rainforests of Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary in the deep south to the expansive wilderness of Kaeng Krachan National Park, the iconic landscapes of Khao Yai, and the misty peaks of Doi Phuka National Park, each photograph is a testament to the beauty and richness of these green sanctuaries.

3. How did your experiences in these national parks influence the creation of this collection?

The inspiration for ขจี stems from my journeys into these remarkable ecosystems. Each park offers a unique experience: the raw, untouched vibrancy of Hala Bala, the sprawling biodiversity of Kaeng Krachan, the dramatic vistas of Khao Yai, and the serene majesty of Doi Phuka. These places are living reminders of nature’s capacity to thrive when protected and respected. Through my photography, I aim to evoke a sense of wonder and urgency—showing the beauty of these places while highlighting the importance of conserving them.

4. Can you walk us through your creative process in capturing these stunning images?

My process begins in the field, where patience and respect are key. Using high-resolution cameras and specialised lenses, I strive to capture authentic moments of life and vitality. Post-processing enhances the natural tones and textures of ขจี, ensuring that each image conveys the lush energy of its subject while staying true to its essence. I use Canon EOS r5 with variety of lenses ranging from the widest 16-24mm to 150-600mm.

6. How has your professional background influenced your approach to this exhibition?

My professional background in marketing at Bangkok Patana School has shaped my ability to craft compelling visual narratives. ขจี is a convergence of my artistic passion and my desire to inspire action. This collection is not only a celebration of Thailand’s green landscapes but also a call to cherish and protect these irreplaceable treasures for generations to come.

7. Have you ever faced unexpected challenges while photographing in remote locations? What did you learn from those experiences? Is there a particular moment or image from your collection that was especially difficult to capture but ended up being rewarding?

It’s hard to choose just one memorable moment because every encounter in the wild, whether with wildlife or breathtaking landscapes, feels extraordinary in its own way. Most of the selections for this exhibit represent those magical, unscripted moments that make nature so captivating. Unlike other types of photography, you can’t stage wildlife or the perfect landscape—it’s all about preparation, research, and patience. I study animal behavior, check weather patterns, and scout locations, all while remaining open to whatever unfolds. That unpredictability, whether it’s a rare animal sighting or a dramatic play of light across a stunning vista, keeps me on edge and fuels my passion for capturing nature’s raw beauty as it reveals itself.

8. Are there any particular species or elements of the natural world that you feel especially drawn to capturing? Why? I’ve always been drawn to birds and sunrises in the mountains because they remind me of God’s incredible beauty and creativity. Birds are just so fascinating—every species has its own unique look and personality, and there’s something so freeing about watching them soar through the sky. Plus, they’re a reminder of how everything in nature is connected, which is pretty inspiring.

As for sunrises, there’s nothing quite like being up in the mountains to see the day begin. The colors in the sky—those pinks, golds, and purples—are incredible, and the quiet of the early morning feels so peaceful. It’s like the world is resetting, giving you a fresh start. I love capturing those moments because they remind me how beautiful and simple life can be.

9. Is there a location or theme you haven’t explored yet that you’d love to photograph next? I’d love to explore the waterworld next—it’s like a whole other universe waiting to be discovered. I’ve always been fascinated by the beauty of life under the sea, especially when I see those vibrant underwater photographs in magazines. The colours, the strange and wonderful creatures, the way the light dances through the water—it’s mesmerising.

That said, I have a bit of a fear of open waters. There’s something about the vastness and the unknown that feels intimidating. But at the same time, I think that’s part of the appeal. It’s a chance to step out of my comfort zone and experience something completely new. Capturing that underwater beauty and sharing it with others could be an incredible way to overcome my fears while celebrating the wonders of God’s creation. It’s a challenge I’d love to take on someday!

10. In your view, what’s so special about photography as a medium for artistic expression, and what makes a photograph truly capture nature’s essence?

Photography is special because it’s all about capturing that one moment in time—something that would be gone in a second, but you can hold onto it forever. It’s like freezing life in a frame, and that’s pretty cool. A photo can tell a whole story or make you feel something deep, even if it’s just from one shot.

When it comes to nature, what makes a photo really capture its essence is how it brings out the true vibe of the scene. It’s not just about what you see, but how you feel it—the way the light hits, the colours pop, or even how quiet everything is. A good photo doesn’t just show nature, it makes you feel like you’re right there, experiencing all that beauty up close. That’s what makes it special.

11. In what ways has the TAPs Programme impacted the selection of photographs that you have chosen to exhibit and your creative journey?

The TAPs Programme has really helped me think more intentionally about the wildlife photos I choose to share. It’s encouraged me to focus on images that don’t just look good but tell a story—whether it’s about the connection between species, the beauty of a fleeting moment, or the importance of conservation. Being part of the TAPs community has been a huge inspiration, too. Seeing the passion and dedication of others, even with how busy we all are, motivates me to keep going and stay committed to sharing the wonder of wildlife and the need to protect it for the future.