By Minh Ngoc Le
If junior Mason Thai had a super power, it would be the ability to freeze any moment in time. Hand in hand with a camera and a passion for capturing life’s fleeting moments, Thai is ready to share his creativity as he embarks on his first year as a staff member of Baron Banner.
Thai first found interest in Baron Banner through the encouragement of a friend. With a heart anchored by the search for truth, Thai is deeply inspired by the power of the press to shape community perceptions.
“I like feeding people the right information and knowing that they can be updated with things that happen around the school,” Thai said.
For Thai, photography is a way to honor those he loves. From daily experiences, adventures with friends to new food discoveries, looking back on the photos he took is a way he reflects on his journey; they are a reminder of the lessons learned along the way, special moments spent with loved ones and of those encountered that shaped who he is today.
Inspiration is never-ending around Thai.
“For me, my grandparents inspire me the most. They came from a lower developed country and moved here to America to start a whole new life. I can’t imagine myself doing that,” Thai said.
New experiences are what keep Thai alive. Describing himself as adventurous, he enjoys going on spontaneous adventures with friends, traveling around the world and adding new skill sets to his boundless toolbox. The newest addition? Baking for his friends and family.
With dedication and passion in all he does, Thai takes pride in the work he produces, whether it be at school or at work, making sure he pours in his best efforts. Looking toward his last two years of high school, Thai is determined to stay on top of his rigorous course load and further his connection with school culture.
“I want to leave a permanent mark on Baron Banner, for my photos to stay up [on the website] forever. I want to be remembered as the best photographer at Fountain Valley High School,” Thai said.
When he is not busy documenting life through his lens, you can find Thai relaxing in the comfort of his home, munching on hearty dumplings while blasting “Just the way you are” by Bruno Mars.