Inspired by his father, 28-year-old Anoukit ‘Mon’ Kithsavath first picked up a camera as a child.
He recalls how his father was always seen with a camera in hand and watching him capture moments through the lens ignited Mon’s passion for visual storytelling.
From that moment, he knew photography would be his lifelong career.
“I remember just being drawn to the way he handled the camera,” Mon recalled. “It wasn’t just about snapping photos; it was about capturing a feeling, a moment that would otherwise be lost.”
This early connection to photography sparked a passion that would eventually lead him to international recognition.
Back in February, Mon received a Highly Commended Award in London. It wasn’t the top prize, but it’s a big nod to the quality of his work. This milestone puts the Lao photographer further on the global stage.
For the past five years, Mon has primarily focused on street photography, though he remains uncertain whether to consider it his specialty.
“I’m not sure if I specialize in this genre or not, but I enjoy doing it,” he said.
Street photograph by Anoukit ‘Mon’ Kithsavath that won the award.
His work often explores the connection between the city, its artwork, and its people, reflecting a sense of solitude despite the bustling environment of the city center.
“There’s something raw and real about street art,” he explained. “It’s always changing, just like the city itself. I love the challenge of finding the right angle, the right light, and capturing it before it’s gone. Before I create my masterpiece, I sit in the same spot for hours, watching and waiting for the right moment.”
Mon’s ability to find beauty in the unexpected has earned him recognition, proving that inspiration can arise from even the simplest beginnings—like a father’s camera.
Beyond his father, Mon draws inspiration from popular photographers, particularly Henri Cartier-Bresson, the French photojournalist often regarded as the father of street photography.
“His work has inspired me so much,” Mon shared. “The way he captures fleeting moments with such precision and emotion is truly amazing.”
Another major influence on Mon’s work is Alan Schaller, a London-based photographer known for his striking black-and-white imagery.
“Alan Schaller is my idol,” Mon said. “He only shoots in black and white, and his style is incredibly creative. The way he plays with contrast, blending subjects and light so seamlessly, amazes me.”
No Pain No Gain
Mon shared that staying motivated to hit the streets isn’t always easy. At times, he found himself photographing the same subjects repeatedly, which led to a loss of interest and a temptation to stay home instead.
The biggest challenge in street photography, he explained, lies in its unpredictability.
“You never know what you’re going to capture that day,” he said.
There were days when he took hundreds of shots, only to find that none were usable.
“You need to be in the right place at the right time,” he said. “But you also have to know what kind of photo you want. Otherwise, you’re just relying on luck—and I don’t like leaving things to chance. I prefer to chase the shot I envision.”
Like any creative pursuit, Mon’s journey has not been without obstacles. There were times when he felt bored, exhausted, and even considered giving up. But during these moments of doubt, he reminded himself why he started.
“I told myself that if I love this, I can’t just walk away from it.”
His perseverance eventually paid off when he received the Highly Commended Award at the Photography Foundation Awards. While it wasn’t the top prize, he saw it as a major milestone, filling him with both pride and motivation.
“This award means so much to me. It proves that my hard work is paying off, and it pushes me to keep improving,” he said, adding that his ultimate goal is to win an even bigger prize one day.
Looking ahead, Mon is working on his first photo book collection and dreams of hosting his own photography exhibition.
Lessons from Experience: Advice for Aspiring Photographers
Mon believes that every great photographer has to start somewhere, and he offers some advice for those looking to follow in his footsteps.
For beginners, he suggests starting with the expert mode on a mobile phone. By doing so, they can familiarize themselves with essential camera functions like aperture, ISO, and shutter speed.
“Mastering these basics will give you a strong foundation to build on,” he explains.
As photographers progress, Mon encourages them to embrace more challenges. He advises experimenting with different styles, lighting, and compositions, while also exploring manual settings on a real camera. Beyond technical skill, Mon emphasizes the importance of seeking feedback from others, studying the work of renowned photographers, and stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
“The more you practice, the better you’ll become,” he said.
Thinking about his own journey, Mon said that before entering competitions, he would spend time reviewing his work and consulting with family, friends, and photo experts. Once he felt his work was the best it could be, he knew he was ready to compete on a global stage.
From his own experience, Mon believes that for advanced photographers, the biggest challenge is not skill, but fear.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Anoukit-Mon-Kithsavath-Lao-Photographer.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-03-28 09:41:362025-03-17 09:43:38Success Through a Lens: Lao Photographer Earns Prestigious Award in London
In September 2024, Typhoon Yagi swept across Laos, primarily affecting the northern regions. The storm caused widespread devastation, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The northern provinces bore the brunt of the typhoon, experiencing severe flooding that inundated homes, schools, temples, hospitals, and farms.
Following the disaster, Laos received support from both the Lao government and the international community which provided assistance for infrastructure rebuilding.
Japan, among others, pledged its help in restoring critical infrastructure, including the provision of equipment for bridge repairs.
To strengthen post-typhoon recovery efforts, Japanese Ambassador Koizumi Tsutomu and Lao Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Phongsavanh Sisoulath signed the “Exchange of Notes on Economic and Social Development Plan (Bridge Repair Equipment)” on 6 March at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Vientiane.
The Government of Japan is providing JPY 1.7 billion (approximately USD 11 million or LAK 2.5 trillion) in grant assistance to enhance Laos’ disaster relief capabilities.
This support includes essential construction and disaster prevention equipment, such as steel bridge girders, rough terrain cranes, super long front crawler excavators, and emergency shelters.
Japan has long contributed to Laos’ sustainable economic growth by developing high-quality road infrastructure, including the Second Mekong International Bridge, Pakse Bridge, Route No. 9, and Route No. 1 in Vientiane Capital. Strengthening these key logistics routes will not only improve safety and convenience for residents but also boost economic, industrial, and trade development, aligning with Laos’ policy of transforming from land-locked to land-linked.
The partnership between Japan and Laos continues to deepen, with both countries recently elevating their relationship to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”
On 6 March, the Government of Laos and the United Nations country representative signed off on a project aiming to strengthen large-scale food fortification in Laos.
Rice, the cornerstone of the Lao diet, could become a game-changer in battling malnutrition. Micronutrient deficiency, also called hidden hunger, is caused by a lack of essential vitamins and minerals, which stunts growth and development in Laos.
Around 40 percent of women of childbearing age and 44 percent of children under five are plagued by iron deficiency anemia, leading to severe and lasting health issues.
The project, agreed on jointly on 6 March, titled “Strengthening Large-Scale Food Fortification in Laos: The Case for Investing in Rice Fortification,” will be implemented over the next two years.
It aims to enhance the nutritional quality of rice by adding essential vitamins and minerals. Food fortification is one of the most cost-effective public health interventions to reduce micronutrient deficiencies at scale.
“Fortification is not an entirely new agenda point for Laos. Since 1995, our Ministry of Health has regulated the standards for the production and importation of iodized salt in Laos, making the fortification of salt mandatory. Glutinous rice, which is the most important element of our national food culture, is a good source of energy but does not contain micronutrients such as vitamins A, B, iron, and zinc, which people generally lack in our country. Adding such micronutrients is an opportunity in our fight against malnutrition,” said Aphone Visathep, Vice Minister of Health.
The Government of India also supports this intervention with USD 1 million over two years through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund.
“India’s investment into fortification has been a national success, reaching 400 million people in India with fortified rice to counter micronutrient deficiencies. India is proud to share its knowledge and experience in rice fortification with Laos. This partnership reflects our strong bilateral relations and our commitment to supporting sustainable development in the region,” said Yogeshwar Sangwan, Ambassador of India to Laos.
“The United Nations plays a vital role as a partner for governments globally in transforming food systems with evidence-based and cost-effective solutions. Staple food fortification is a cost-effective way to bring micronutrients into the diets of all Lao people and leave no one behind. It’s an accelerator towards eradicating malnutrition and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We are thankful for the partnership with India to deliver such an important initiative, which exemplifies the power of South-South cooperation,” said Bakhodir Burkhanov, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Laos.
Since 2013, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has been a leading partner to the Government on rice fortification. “WFP brings 30 years of global expertise in food fortification.
The cooperation we signed today aims to implement the steps laid out in Laos Food Fortification Strategic Action Plan. Strong political will combined with the expertise of the Republic of India and WFP will open opportunities for the public and private sectors to enhance national capability to fortify rice and improve the diet of millions of people in Laos,” said Marc-Andre Prost, World Food Programme Representative and Country Director in Laos.
https://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Signed-off-on-a-project-ceremony-aiming-to-strengthen-large-scale-food-fortification-in-Laos.jpg6271200Sylivanla Vongphachanhhttps://www.tourismlaos.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Lao-Simply-Beautiful-.webpSylivanla Vongphachanh2025-03-26 01:22:002025-03-11 09:24:22Fortified Rice Project Launched to Help Reduce Malnutrition in Laos
Success Through a Lens: Lao Photographer Earns Prestigious Award in London
Inspired by his father, 28-year-old Anoukit ‘Mon’ Kithsavath first picked up a camera as a child.
He recalls how his father was always seen with a camera in hand and watching him capture moments through the lens ignited Mon’s passion for visual storytelling.
From that moment, he knew photography would be his lifelong career.
“I remember just being drawn to the way he handled the camera,” Mon recalled. “It wasn’t just about snapping photos; it was about capturing a feeling, a moment that would otherwise be lost.”
This early connection to photography sparked a passion that would eventually lead him to international recognition.
Back in February, Mon received a Highly Commended Award in London. It wasn’t the top prize, but it’s a big nod to the quality of his work. This milestone puts the Lao photographer further on the global stage.
For the past five years, Mon has primarily focused on street photography, though he remains uncertain whether to consider it his specialty.
“I’m not sure if I specialize in this genre or not, but I enjoy doing it,” he said.
His work often explores the connection between the city, its artwork, and its people, reflecting a sense of solitude despite the bustling environment of the city center.
“There’s something raw and real about street art,” he explained. “It’s always changing, just like the city itself. I love the challenge of finding the right angle, the right light, and capturing it before it’s gone. Before I create my masterpiece, I sit in the same spot for hours, watching and waiting for the right moment.”
Mon’s ability to find beauty in the unexpected has earned him recognition, proving that inspiration can arise from even the simplest beginnings—like a father’s camera.
Beyond his father, Mon draws inspiration from popular photographers, particularly Henri Cartier-Bresson, the French photojournalist often regarded as the father of street photography.
“His work has inspired me so much,” Mon shared. “The way he captures fleeting moments with such precision and emotion is truly amazing.”
Another major influence on Mon’s work is Alan Schaller, a London-based photographer known for his striking black-and-white imagery.
“Alan Schaller is my idol,” Mon said. “He only shoots in black and white, and his style is incredibly creative. The way he plays with contrast, blending subjects and light so seamlessly, amazes me.”
No Pain No Gain
Mon shared that staying motivated to hit the streets isn’t always easy. At times, he found himself photographing the same subjects repeatedly, which led to a loss of interest and a temptation to stay home instead.
The biggest challenge in street photography, he explained, lies in its unpredictability.
“You never know what you’re going to capture that day,” he said.
There were days when he took hundreds of shots, only to find that none were usable.
“You need to be in the right place at the right time,” he said. “But you also have to know what kind of photo you want. Otherwise, you’re just relying on luck—and I don’t like leaving things to chance. I prefer to chase the shot I envision.”
Like any creative pursuit, Mon’s journey has not been without obstacles. There were times when he felt bored, exhausted, and even considered giving up. But during these moments of doubt, he reminded himself why he started.
“I told myself that if I love this, I can’t just walk away from it.”
His perseverance eventually paid off when he received the Highly Commended Award at the Photography Foundation Awards. While it wasn’t the top prize, he saw it as a major milestone, filling him with both pride and motivation.
“This award means so much to me. It proves that my hard work is paying off, and it pushes me to keep improving,” he said, adding that his ultimate goal is to win an even bigger prize one day.
Looking ahead, Mon is working on his first photo book collection and dreams of hosting his own photography exhibition.
Lessons from Experience: Advice for Aspiring Photographers
Mon believes that every great photographer has to start somewhere, and he offers some advice for those looking to follow in his footsteps.
For beginners, he suggests starting with the expert mode on a mobile phone. By doing so, they can familiarize themselves with essential camera functions like aperture, ISO, and shutter speed.
“Mastering these basics will give you a strong foundation to build on,” he explains.
As photographers progress, Mon encourages them to embrace more challenges. He advises experimenting with different styles, lighting, and compositions, while also exploring manual settings on a real camera. Beyond technical skill, Mon emphasizes the importance of seeking feedback from others, studying the work of renowned photographers, and stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
“The more you practice, the better you’ll become,” he said.
Thinking about his own journey, Mon said that before entering competitions, he would spend time reviewing his work and consulting with family, friends, and photo experts. Once he felt his work was the best it could be, he knew he was ready to compete on a global stage.
From his own experience, Mon believes that for advanced photographers, the biggest challenge is not skill, but fear.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/12/success-through-a-lens-lao-photographer-earns-prestigious-award-in-london/
Japan Grants Funds for Infrastructure Repairs in Laos
In September 2024, Typhoon Yagi swept across Laos, primarily affecting the northern regions. The storm caused widespread devastation, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The northern provinces bore the brunt of the typhoon, experiencing severe flooding that inundated homes, schools, temples, hospitals, and farms.
Following the disaster, Laos received support from both the Lao government and the international community which provided assistance for infrastructure rebuilding.
Japan, among others, pledged its help in restoring critical infrastructure, including the provision of equipment for bridge repairs.
To strengthen post-typhoon recovery efforts, Japanese Ambassador Koizumi Tsutomu and Lao Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Phongsavanh Sisoulath signed the “Exchange of Notes on Economic and Social Development Plan (Bridge Repair Equipment)” on 6 March at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Vientiane.
The Government of Japan is providing JPY 1.7 billion (approximately USD 11 million or LAK 2.5 trillion) in grant assistance to enhance Laos’ disaster relief capabilities.
This support includes essential construction and disaster prevention equipment, such as steel bridge girders, rough terrain cranes, super long front crawler excavators, and emergency shelters.
Japan has long contributed to Laos’ sustainable economic growth by developing high-quality road infrastructure, including the Second Mekong International Bridge, Pakse Bridge, Route No. 9, and Route No. 1 in Vientiane Capital. Strengthening these key logistics routes will not only improve safety and convenience for residents but also boost economic, industrial, and trade development, aligning with Laos’ policy of transforming from land-locked to land-linked.
The partnership between Japan and Laos continues to deepen, with both countries recently elevating their relationship to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/07/japan-grants-funds-for-infrastructure-repairs-in-laos/
Fortified Rice Project Launched to Help Reduce Malnutrition in Laos
On 6 March, the Government of Laos and the United Nations country representative signed off on a project aiming to strengthen large-scale food fortification in Laos.
Rice, the cornerstone of the Lao diet, could become a game-changer in battling malnutrition. Micronutrient deficiency, also called hidden hunger, is caused by a lack of essential vitamins and minerals, which stunts growth and development in Laos.
Around 40 percent of women of childbearing age and 44 percent of children under five are plagued by iron deficiency anemia, leading to severe and lasting health issues.
The project, agreed on jointly on 6 March, titled “Strengthening Large-Scale Food Fortification in Laos: The Case for Investing in Rice Fortification,” will be implemented over the next two years.
It aims to enhance the nutritional quality of rice by adding essential vitamins and minerals. Food fortification is one of the most cost-effective public health interventions to reduce micronutrient deficiencies at scale.
“Fortification is not an entirely new agenda point for Laos. Since 1995, our Ministry of Health has regulated the standards for the production and importation of iodized salt in Laos, making the fortification of salt mandatory. Glutinous rice, which is the most important element of our national food culture, is a good source of energy but does not contain micronutrients such as vitamins A, B, iron, and zinc, which people generally lack in our country. Adding such micronutrients is an opportunity in our fight against malnutrition,” said Aphone Visathep, Vice Minister of Health.
The Government of India also supports this intervention with USD 1 million over two years through the India-UN Development Partnership Fund.
“India’s investment into fortification has been a national success, reaching 400 million people in India with fortified rice to counter micronutrient deficiencies. India is proud to share its knowledge and experience in rice fortification with Laos. This partnership reflects our strong bilateral relations and our commitment to supporting sustainable development in the region,” said Yogeshwar Sangwan, Ambassador of India to Laos.
“The United Nations plays a vital role as a partner for governments globally in transforming food systems with evidence-based and cost-effective solutions. Staple food fortification is a cost-effective way to bring micronutrients into the diets of all Lao people and leave no one behind. It’s an accelerator towards eradicating malnutrition and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We are thankful for the partnership with India to deliver such an important initiative, which exemplifies the power of South-South cooperation,” said Bakhodir Burkhanov, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Laos.
Since 2013, the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has been a leading partner to the Government on rice fortification. “WFP brings 30 years of global expertise in food fortification.
The cooperation we signed today aims to implement the steps laid out in Laos Food Fortification Strategic Action Plan. Strong political will combined with the expertise of the Republic of India and WFP will open opportunities for the public and private sectors to enhance national capability to fortify rice and improve the diet of millions of people in Laos,” said Marc-Andre Prost, World Food Programme Representative and Country Director in Laos.
Source: https://laotiantimes.com/2025/03/07/fortified-rice-project-launched-to-help-reduce-malnutrition-in-laos/