Why I Love Photographing People
Why I Love Photographing People
Blog Article
Back when I was a hobbyist photographer, I rarely photographed people. I focused on landscapes and nature—quiet subjects that didn’t require permission or conversation. I was shy, unsure of myself, and often didn’t have the confidence to approach strangers for a portrait. Friends and family were the exception, but even then, I was more comfortable staying behind the lens, quietly observing rather than actively engaging.
As photography slowly pulled me in deeper, I realized I wanted to grow beyond nature and become a more well-rounded photographer. That’s when I discovered photo festivals—vibrant gatherings of passionate photographers sharing their work, ideas, and philosophies. These festivals were pivotal. I was exposed to the world of photojournalism and documentary photography, where images weren’t just beautiful, but powerful and human. I listened to war photographers covering Syria and storytellers who explored everything from the aftermath of Fukushima to the lives of transgender communities. Their work was raw, emotional, and deeply meaningful. It made me realize that photographing people—capturing their stories, personalities, and truths—is one of the most profound things a photographer can do.
This discovery changed everything for me.
I started collecting photobooks and reading about iconic portrait photographers. I was fascinated by how the greats used their presence, empathy, and emotional intelligence to connect with their subjects. Technical skill was a given—but what truly set them apart was their ability to see into someone’s soul and reflect it back through an image. I was inspired by stories like Yousuf Karsh’s portrait of Winston Churchill, where he famously snatched a cigar from Churchill’s mouth just before clicking the shutter. That spontaneous moment gave us a portrait that captured the spirit of British defiance during World War II.
Platon, whose work I deeply admire, once spoke about photographing Putin in the Kremlin. Surrounded by bodyguards and translators, the atmosphere was tense. But Platon, having researched Putin, mentioned his favorite Beatles song—“Yesterday.” That moment of connection broke the ice. It taught me that the real magic happens in those unscripted moments between people.
Eventually, I left my corporate career and took a leap into photography full-time. I wasn’t entirely sure which path to take, but I kept circling back to editorial and portrait photography. I realized that I’ve always loved connecting with people, and photography became my way of bringing out their personalities and making sense of the world around me.
Since then, I’ve photographed hundreds of people in Singapore—from corporate clients to artists like poet and educator Jennifer Ann Champion. Some of my favorite sessions were shot on a 30-year-old medium format film camera using Lomography Earl Grey film, which I developed at home. These portraits feel raw, honest, and unpolished—just the way I like them.
Even in corporate shoots, I take the time to talk to my subjects, easing their nerves and building rapport. Not everyone enjoys being photographed, but a conversation can turn the experience into something collaborative and even fun.
Today, portrait photography is more than just my job—it’s my passion and my purpose.
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