Interview: Yvan Rodic, 'The Face Hunter'

London-based Swiss photographer Yvan Rodic is not your typical fashion journalist. Instead of covering the global style scene by following the action on the usual trendsetting catwalks of the world, he's documenting what’s happening on the streets -- and in some pretty unlikely locations.

With an eye for trendspotting, Rodic's Face Hunter blog quickly developed a reputation for being one of the most compelling sites for arresting portraits of stylish characters in cities like Berlin, Stockholm, Reykjavik, Oslo and Gdansk.

In addition to his blog, Rodic produces and hosts an online TV production, The Facehunter Show, in which he travels around the world finding emerging talents in areas of music, art and, of course, fashion. His work has now brought him to Bangkok, where he’s hosting a Face Hunter Party at the trendy Tenface boutique hotel Friday night. (Check out Rodic's pics of Bangkokian street style on his blog.)

CNNGo: Bangkok isn't viewed globally as a fashion city. Why shoot it?

Of course it's great to take pictures in London and Tokyo, but I also find it very challenging and enlightening to explore 'the fashion outsiders' and to make people from all around the world change their views on cities that are well known only through a bunch of old school clichés.

CNNGo: What do you think about Thai fashion?

Because of the climate, I guess, people dress super-casual during the day. At night you can see many elegant ladies and if you are at the right place, a few creative kids.

CNNGo: You’ve taken pictures in Taiwan and Seoul, places that few regard as fashion centers. What’s holding them back?

The fashion scene in these countries is pretty new. It's only very recently that you saw Korean designers showing at Paris Fashion Week. They are starting to get some recognition, but it will take a while.

CNNGo: Explain the style differences in the Asian countries you’ve visited.

Japan is the most creative, colorful, playful and experimental. Very brand oriented. In South Korea, girls dress in black and in a safe way, nothing exciting. Boys there are way more interesting -- often elegant and sometimes fashion forward.

In Taiwan there's an interesting scene with kids who like to dress. Most of them are inspired by Japanese fashion. Indonesia has a very exciting and unique scene. Great necklaces and use of batik in contemporary outfits. Lots of girls love to play with bright colors! Singapore is quite safe. You can find a few exceptions who dress edgy and sharp.

CNNGo: Is there anything universal in fashion right now?

The need to be individual.

CNNGo: Have you checked out Bangkok’s nightlife?

I was disappointed to see that the nightlife is pretty limited here. Not that many people go out during the week and most of the decent places close at 1 or 2am.