Hawaiian Top Team Media
Fightography Division
Capturing moments that make every fighter look and feel like a Champion
Muay Thai Development League. Honolulu, Hawai'i. 2023.
This was one of Mango Tree's first major Muay Thai Development League events in Hawai'i up until that point in time; as there were fighters from multiple U.S States as well as overseas foreign athletes from multiple countries. Muay Thai holds a special place in my heart, being a former Nak Muay myself, Thai Boxer, so being able to document this event felt like my old life has come full circle, it almost felt like closure to my journey in Muay Thai over 21 years ago now. I was able to really get up close and personal, which is very rare for a photographer to be allowed to do, but having the trust of the promoters knowing of my experience and history really gives me an advantage to be able to capture moments that are so close and personal that you almost feel connected to the fight in your own way. I wanted to create really dramatic images to give Muay Thai the respect it deserves as one of the most brutal, violent, and yet most beautiful martial art in the world no matter at what level.
Hawai'i Triple Crown of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Honolulu, Hawai'i. 2023.
This event is one of several held here in Hawai'i by Hawai'i Triple Crown of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Promoter and BJJ Black Belt Professor Romolo Barros. I also have a professional/personal relationship with Professor Romolo as well so here again is another event in which I am given the respect and trust to be able to be almost uncomfortably close for some spectators but am in full control of my surroundings and own abilities. This advantage allows me to really capture yet another angle that is not normally accessible to those not lucky enough to be a referee or judge or coach, or the competitor themself. I am able to create a stronger story of what is happening by being able to place myself in each competitors position and capture moments I feel or expect them to know and execute. This specific athlete on the ground is my niece and behind her is her two sister, on either side of the opponent in the air, and her team in her corner. I love Jiu Jitsu also as much as I love Muay Thai so I am always looking to really bring out the most in these athletes with wall hanging, auto graph signing, unique pieces of history.
