Interview with Sakulchai Sikitikul, Winner of DSPF 2026 Single Image category
About Sakulchai
Sakulchai Sikitikul, 52, is based in Songkhla, southern Thailand. He has been passionate about street photography since 2009, drawing continuous inspiration from fine art, print media, and various influential photographers.
What’s the story behind the winning photo?
This shot was taken during a massive annual merit-making event in my hometown, featuring over 1,000 monks. As the main ceremony wrapped up and the monks began to disperse, I climbed onto the stage where the crew was clearing equipment.
I noticed the striking repetition of the monks, who all looked identical from that angle. I decided to frame the shot to create a sharp contrast with the empty stage, drawing on composition techniques I learned from 1900s–90s print design. The key moment came when I captured a monk placing his hand on the stage surface.
Aims and Goals for the future?
l still truly enjoy honing my street photography skills and remain fascinated by capturing the "decisive moment" on the streets. Even though it's exhausting and tough to catch, when everything aligns and you’re lucky enough to seize that split second, the feeling is pure magic.
Any advice for street photographers starting out?
There are three things I have always relied on for street photography:
Alertness and observation.
Focus and anticipation evaluating potential moments while framing compositions.
Smiling and friendliness toward people.
