Chiang Mai is a city of ancient temples, vibrant markets, and misty mountains – a filmmaker's paradise in northern Thailand. But filming here comes with unique challenges: intense heat, the burning season (February–April), and crowds at the most famous temples. We sat down with Somchai Tansiri, a Chiang Mai‑based videographer who has shot travel content and documentaries across the city, to get the real story on filming in this northern Thai gem. From the panoramic views of Doi Suthep at sunrise to the colourful chaos of the Night Bazaar at dusk, Somchai shares his favourite locations, the gear that survives the heat and rain, and the permits you need to know about.
🎯 What You'll Learn in This Interview
- Best cinematic spots: Doi Suthep, Old City temples, Night Bazaar, and the surrounding mountains.
- Gear for heat & smoke: Why Somchai favours weather‑sealed bodies, dust blowers, and a good rain cover.
- Permits & etiquette: Where you can film freely and where you need permission (temple interiors).
- Golden hour in the north: His go‑to settings for that warm, tropical light.
- Editing style: How he grades his footage to bring out the lush greens and golden tones of Chiang Mai.
🏯 Somchai's Top Filming Locations
- Doi Suthep – at sunrise: The mountain temple offers panoramic views of the city. 6 AM is the best time – the mist hangs over the valley and the morning sun illuminates the golden chedi. A wide‑angle lens (16–35mm) captures the full scene, while a telephoto isolates the city below.
- Old City – temples at golden hour: The ancient city walls contain over 300 temples. Golden hour (just before sunset) is the best time for warm light on the golden spires. A fast prime lens (35mm f/1.8) is perfect for handheld low‑light shots inside the temple grounds.
- Night Bazaar – at dusk: The famous market comes alive after sunset. Blue hour (just after sunset) is the best time for colourful light and lively scenes. A gimbal is essential for smooth walking shots through the crowds.
📸 The Kit He Actually Uses
- Primary camera: Sony ZV‑E10 II – lightweight and weather‑sealed for the heat and humidity.
- Go‑to lens: Sony 24‑70mm f/2.8 G Master – versatile for both wide and detail shots.
- Second lens: Sony 85mm f/1.8 – for portraits and isolating details in the temples.
- Dust blower & lens wipes: Essential for the smoky season.
⚡ Quick Chiang Mai Filming Tips
- Avoid burning season (February–April): The air quality is poor – use a Dehaze tool in post if you must shoot during this time.
- Protect from heat: Keep gear in the shade when not shooting.
- Use a variable ND filter to keep shutter angle correct in bright light.
- Shoot in flat profile to get the most dynamic range for grading.
- Ask permission – always ask before filming inside temples and of local people.
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All recommendations are based on real‑world testing.