I first became interested in photography when I bought a camera to support my painting and sculpture. At the time, there were very few reference photographs available to me for my artwork, so I began taking my own. As I learned how to use the camera, I became completely absorbed by the medium. For many years, I photographed without any particular purpose, simply as a hobby.

My work eventually came to the attention of Her Royal Highness Princess Sonam Dechan Wangchuck through Instagram, and I was graciously invited for a Royal Audience. After the audience, I was presented one of her books as a Salra (gift), with the written message that has guided my photography life ever since: “Use your art to tell the stories of Bhutan and its strength, and beauty, in the language that is universal.” Those words gave my photography a clear purpose. From that moment, in became committed to creating work that went beyond creating aesthetically pleasing photographs to telling meaningful stories about Bhutan and its people.

After completing my Master’s degree in Photography from United Kingdom, I returned to Bhutan and was commissioned to produce a book documenting Her Majesty the Queen Mother’s journey in establishing the Tarayana Foundation. The project introduced me to the Foundation’s remarkable work. While making the book, I met countless individuals, listened to their personal stories, and witnessed first-hand how Her Majesty’s compassion and vision had changed their lives.

That experience changed the way I understood the purpose of my photography. It inspired me to use my skills for something beyond myself. Today, photography is not only my artistic practice; it has become an extension of my commitment to philanthropy, a way to tell meaningful stories, amplify voices, create awareness, and contribute to causes that can make a lasting difference in people’s lives.

Through my work, I hope to contribute, in my own small way, to the mission of the Tarayana Foundation and to preserve the stories that define Bhutan.