APPLYING OF EDFAT THEORY ON PORTRAITURE OF THE KALOMESE IN LUANGPRABANG, LAOS PDR

บทคัดย่อ

This study applies the EDFAT theory comprising Entire, Details, Frame, Angle, and Time as a visual ethnographic framework to explore the portraiture of the Tai Lue Kalom community in Ban Nayang, Luang Prabang Province, Laos. The research aims to investigate how EDFAT-guided portrait photography can enhance both the technical and interpretive dimensions of ethnographic documentation, specifically focusing on elderly Kalomese men who retain traditional tattoos. These tattoos, often featuring motifs such as the "Mom" and "Phoenix," are believed by the community to hold cultural and identity significance. The objectives of the research are 1)To apply the EDFAT theory to the composition of portrait photography in ethnographic fieldwork and to document the remaining tattoo culture among the elderly as a form of intangible heritage preservation. Using qualitative methods—including in-depth interviews with key, general, and contextual informants, as well as field observations and visual analysis—the study identifies that the tattoo designs can be categorized into three body zones: top, middle, and bottom. Each element of the EDFAT model contributes uniquely to the creation of images that serve both as aesthetic portraits and ethnographic evidence. The findings affirm the capacity of EDFAT-based photography to function not only as a tool for cultural preservation but also as a method for interpreting meaning within visual anthropology. The portraits produced offer a compelling narrative that underscores the urgency of safeguarding the disappearing yet significant practice of tattooing within this ethnic community.