Karthik Rangappa

Culture, People, and Places

Hard Knock

Life has brought me to Phuket several times over the years. Before you jump to conclusions about why, let me clarify—I’ve always traveled there with family and close friends 🙂

I’ve photographed various subjects around Phuket: the old town, street food, street artists, bars, and more. But one item that stubbornly remained on my checklist was a Muay Thai match.

Two Muay Thai fighters are engaged in a match, one delivering a kick while the other defends. The boxing ring is surrounded by an audience watching intently.

Last May (2024), I finally got the chance to attend a fight, and I went wild with my newly acquired 24-70 GM II. The raw, gritty, sweat-soaked atmosphere translated beautifully into images. The dimly lit arena meant high ISO grain, which perfectly enhanced the character and mood of these shots.

Black and white image of a young Muay Thai boxer in the ring, looking focused, with a trainer leaning in close beside him.

The neon signage and radiating light created the perfect ambiance for the venue’s electric atmosphere.

A Muay Thai match in a low-lit arena, featuring two fighters in the ring, one delivering a kick while a referee observes. Spectators can be seen in the background, along with illuminated signs around the venue.

If you find yourself in Phuket, add a Muay Thai match to your must-do list—especially if you’re a photographer.

Two Muay Thai fighters engaged in a dynamic kick exchange inside a boxing ring during a match, with spectators visible in the background.
A boxer in a Muay Thai match sitting on the corner of the ring, receiving water and support from a trainer, surrounded by red ropes and dim lighting.
A Muay Thai fighter receiving support from his corner team, sitting on a stool inside the boxing ring, surrounded by red ropes and low lighting.
A Muay Thai fighter sits on a stool in the ring, being attended to by a corner man, surrounded by red ropes and a lively arena atmosphere.
Two Muay Thai fighters in close combat, one wearing blue gloves and the other with a bloodied face, showcasing intense action in a low-lit arena.
Close-up of a Muay Thai fighter with a serious expression, glistening skin, and visible blood stains on his chest, captured in a low-lit arena.
A Muay Thai fighter kneeling on the canvas, deep in concentration or prayer, displaying numerous tattoos. The background features another fighter and an audience observing the match.
Close-up of a fighter's back showcasing a large tiger tattoo, surrounded by boxing ring ropes.
A Muay Thai match in a dimly lit arena, with two fighters in action, an audience in the background, and illuminated signage above.
A Muay Thai match in an arena with one fighter raising their arm in victory while the referee stands beside them, spectators visible in the background.
A Muay Thai match in progress with fighters in the ring, surrounded by a captivated audience in a low-lit arena.
A Muay Thai fighter sitting on a stool in the ring, receiving advice from a trainer, while spectators watch in the background.

These images have inspired me to attempt a different editing style—the cinematic approach. Maybe I’ll give it a shot next time.

Karthik Rangappa

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