Q&A with Panuwat aka @paronly

Name: Panuwat W. Phienpit

Birth year: 1967

Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Profession: Business owner (architect by profession)

How Panuwat Takes His Great Photos

Thomas: How did it all start with your Instagram feed?

Panuway: I love arts and more importantly I really love taking photos. Before Instagram, I used Facebook to share my lifestyle, family and other stuff that I found worth to keeping and share to the world.

One day, I was introduced to Instagram and found that it suited my preferences better,  especially my lifestyle photography. I’ve been on the platform since April of 2017.

T: Why Instagram? What are your goals?

P: My goals are pretty simple.

First of all, I want to inspire people around the world that share my interests. In my case, I use denim, boots, and vintage gears as a medium to connect the dot between myself and rest of the world. I’ve loved denim and jeans since I was a teenager. And I told myself I would wear denim till the very end.

Secondly, every single day, I try to record my life. This serves for me to look back at what I’ve done and worn. And, more importantly, my family can check in they think of me and what to know that I’m still alive ?

T: How much time do you spend on Instagram on a daily basis?

P: On average one hour, maximum two.

T: How do you take your photos?

P: 98% by myself

T: Which tools do you use?

P: I have six basic tools that I use:

• Olympus OMD E-M5II
• Olympus lens 45mm f1.8
• Olympus lens 25mm f1.8
• Mini tripod
• Samsung Note 4
• Snapseed app

T: What’s your editorial flow?

P: The flow is based on my daily life. I believe this will be sustainable and achievable because it’s my life and it’s real life without trying too much or too hard.

I plan what to wear each day. Some days, I might wear things differently or add photos that I love but not too much to lose focus on the context of my Instagram identity.

T: What are your favourite locations to take photos? And why?

P: At home and in the office are my two favourite locations. Both places are very convenient to take photos in. It saves a lot of time as well. However, whenever I take a trip, I love to explore as well.

Panuwat’s Denim Style and Preferences

T: How did you get into denim?

P: I’ve always worn denim. Ever since I was young. Now I have some spare time, so I just simply show my passion to the world.

T: How do you wash your denim?

P: Normally, I do not wash my denim at all until the fade is pretty intense. Usually, more than a year. Then it’s time to taking care of business. I wash my denim with clean fresh water and mild detergent. Nothing fancy or special.

T: What’s your favourite denim brand?

P: So far, it’s Iron Heart.

T: What’s your favourite fit? And why?

P: I have two favourite fits that fit my body and age ? Actually, it depends on the style of your boots as well. That’s why I normally wear both fits.

I wear a low rise straight fit with my 8” to 10” logger and engineer boots. And I wear a low rise slim fit with 6” and 8” moc toe and Iron Ranger boots.

T: Which boots and leather goods do you wear with your denim?

P: I’m a Red Wing guy. The majority of my boots are Red Wings. But it doesn’t mean I don’t like other brands.

T: Which sneakers do you wear?

P: I have a few pairs of sneakers. My favourite is adidas.

T: Favourite item that’s not denim or leather?

P: Gem stones, silver pendants, rings, and bracelets.

T: Where do you buy your gear?

P: Mainly in Bangkok. New stuff I mostly buy from Pronto. Used or vintage gear I buy direct the owner or online.

Suggested further reading: 10 Popular Archetypes and How to Style Jeans

T: What styling tips would you give your followers if they wanted your style?

P: Good question! For me, I truly feel ‘young at heart’ – I’m turning 52 this year. I wear whatever I want, but denim has to be the main part of my style. I mix and match many styles.

I would be honoured if my profile can inspire people to express themselves.

If you look at my Instagram profile, you can see my style playing from the worker, the rock ‘n’ roller, the rebel, the minimalist, or the cowboy.

Ready for More Q&As?

If you’d like to read more personal stories and Q&As, you can check out all the previous ones right here. Want to make sure you never miss one? Sign up for the free weekly Denimhunters email newsletter.