Bangkok Photo Lab Heavyweights: Master Network vs. CKV (Chakraval)
When it comes to “official” document photos in Bangkok, I’ve rotated between two reliable heavyweights for years: Master Network and CKV (Chakraval). Both are incredibly efficient, usually offering same-day collection within a few hours. If the shop isn’t too busy, the staff will often offer to speed up the process while you wait, getting you back on your way in no time.
For my most recent run, I chose Master Network—partly to see how their current service compares after using CKV for my last few renewals.
The Mission: Double Duty Photos
I needed a specific digital version for my upcoming Malaysian passport renewal and hard copies for my Thai Non-Immigrant O visa extension.
I’ll admit, I’ve “recycled” older visa photos in the past, even though the requirements usually specify “within the last 6 months.” After all, does your look really change that much in a year? However, for a passport renewal, you want everything done strictly by the book to avoid any rejection, and photo has to be recent 1 month.
The Cost Breakdown:
- Visa Photos (4cm x 6cm): 120 THB for 6 hard copies.
- Passport Digital Copy (3.5cm x 5cm): An additional 50 THB.
- Total: 170 THB.
The Digital Advantage: Master Network’s digital delivery is impressively thorough. They emailed me three files: both requested sizes (optimized at 200–300KB for easy uploading) plus the original high-resolution file (4MB), and I managed to upload the photo to Malaysian online passport renewal portal without any issue.
The “Vanity Area” Winner
While both shops offer dressing rooms and jackets to borrow, Master Network takes the “prep station” to another level. Even if you’re like me and bring your own comb, their vanity area is a lifesaver after commuting through the Bangkok humidity. Honestly, CKV is likely equipped with similar items, but I’ve never personally used theirs. Master’s station is fully stocked with:
- Combs: Including disposable ones still wrapped in plastic.
- Makeup & Skin: Lip balm, lipstick, powder, blusher, and eye lotion.
- Hair Care: Hair gel/wax/spray, hair mist, and even a hair dryer.
- Essentials: Tissues, wet tissues, and hair clips/bands.
The Studio & Logistics
At CKV, the studio is located upstairs, whereas Master keeps theirs conveniently tucked at the back on the ground floor.
Both labs are highly professional. At Master, as soon as I mentioned “passport,” the photographer swapped in the white backdrop immediately. Both studios allow you to view and select your best shot on-screen before printing—and yes, you can ask for a retake if you aren’t satisfied!
Lightning-Fast Turnaround: The efficiency was staggering. My photo was taken at 2:40 PM. By 3:08 PM, the digital files were already in my inbox—well before I even returned to collect the physical prints! While they usually send an SMS when the order is ready, I simply walked back after an hour of errands and everything was waiting for me.
New Service Alert: Master now offers an AI Photo Service for 290 THB, perfect for those looking for an “enhanced” professional headshot.
Where to Find Them
- Master Photo Network
- Location: Opposite Central Ladprao, next to the staircase for BTS Ha Yaek Lat Phrao.
- Web: https://masterphotonetwork.com/en
- CKV (Chakraval) – Ladprao Branch
- Location: Behind MRT Phahon Yohtin, Exit 4.
- Web: https://chakraval.com/
