We had the good fortune of connecting with AnnAnn Puttithanasorn and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi AnnAnn, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I have always gravitated towards the arts growing up. It is a form of expression for me and I truly feel whole when I am able to create and share a piece of myself with the world–whether its through visual arts, such as photography, to something intangible, such as music. I truly believe that we need more beauty in this world and photography has been a way for me to share that along with the stories that I care about most. I am a fashion and wedding photographer and throughout my journey as a creative, my goal is to always bring out each individual’s unique stories. As an Asian, female artist, I also strive to bring representation to the media. Especially in my fashion and creative work, my hope is to create art that empowers others and captures the essence of what it means to be human. I believe that everyone’s differences are beautiful and they should be appreciated and accepted for who they are.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am primarily a fashion, portrait, and wedding photographer, and much of my work is driven by the desire to bring more representation to the media. As an Asian woman in the creative industry, I do not always see others like me and see our stories being authentically represented. I hope that through my art form I can bring a new perspective to various people’s histories, backgrounds, and culture. I hope to share these various stories, not just ones of Asian women, but also other POCs and minorities as well. There is so much beauty in the world, and I want to capture these stories in the most authentic way that I can. Above anything else, I would rather have my brand be known as one that works to amplify voices and stories that are not always heard about rather than just being someone who knows how to use a camera. It’s important to me that women have their voice in any field that they are in.

The biggest challenge that I had to overcome was to not worry about what others may think of me and my work and to focus on being the best version of myself that I can. Growing up, I did not always receive others’ support when I wanted to pursue a career in the arts. I was constantly told to “be realistic” and get a “normal” job. There were lots of moments where I wouldn’t be taken seriously when I mentioned what I do. For me, I have always been driven to pursue something that I am passionate about rather than what major or career would make the most money. I believe that when you are truly passionate and love what you do, you will constantly strive to be the best version of yourself that you can and as a result, you will find a way to make things work. Your network truly is your net worth. Surround yourself with like-minded people who you can grow and learn from and those who constantly push you to be better.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
There are so many gems in the area. Wat Dallas has a Thai street food market every Sunday morning and it’s definitely a must! We would start our morning there and then head to White Rock Lake for a walk to take in the views and then go to the Dallas Arboretum. After, we would head over to the Dallas Farmer’s Market for some lunch before heading over to Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge to enjoy the views of the skyline. We would later visit the DMA and then end the day at the reunion tower at sunset.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
There are so many people who have inspired and supported me throughout this journey but these three women truly gave me a new perspective as an artist. I would like to thank Danielle Marie Brandon, owner and manager of EIRAM Model Management. When I had first gotten back into photography after a long hiatus, she took a chance and gave me an opportunity to work with her team of models, makeup artists, and stylist for some photoshoot concepts that I had even though I didn’t have much of a portfolio beforehand. Ever since that first photoshoot, I have had to chance to get to learn about her story and journey as an entrepreneur and creative, and her resilience, passion, and strength never fails to inspire me.

Ana Midence, a hair and makeup artist based in DFW, has also played a crucial role. I had the opportunity to work with her on three projects and her passion and execution of her work never fails to amaze me every single time. If you have not seen her work before, you absolutely NEED to check it out! Not only is she an incredible artist, but she is also an amazing mother and the most kind-hearted person.

Last but not least, someone who I had to opportunity to work with recently is Taghan LaScola. She is a model, creator, and photographer among many other things, and I have been following her work across various social media platforms for a while now. I am inspired by her approach as a model, since it is very different and unique from others whom I had worked with. On top of that, she is absolutely the sweetest and most humble human being. Her passion and unique eye truly inspires me.

Website: https://annannputtithanasornphotography.mypixieset.com

Instagram: @annannputtithanasorn

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.