Hello, my name is Sisavath Ole Hongvanthong, but most people know me by PhotOle. I was born in Laos, moved to the US when I was 4. I grew up in Brownstown, PA with my grandma. I fell in love with photography when I was a junior in High School. Got a chance to go to states with my art, best trip ever. Landed my first photography job in 2001. Started PhotOle Photography in 2006. Made wedding photography my only source of income in 2008.

Most people hate their jobs, but for me, photography is my life. I love the technical part of photography. The ability to create an awesome image from a 35mm negative then processing it in your own bathroom still brings a big smile to my face.

Photography speaks to people in different ways. For me, I love the fact that a photograph helps bring back great memories. Two key photos are on my desk, a photo of my mom that looks like an Asian version of Sears Portraits. Who ever took the photo made her look beautiful and happy. The other photo is a picture of Heidi’s mom and dad. They posed for me before we got onto the plane to come back to PA.

Every photo has a story, I want to help create that story.