Photographer: Benedict Chu @chuphotgraphy
Wardrobe Stylist/Model: Tajh Malik @thetajhmalik
Accessory Designer: Tim Nomad @timthenomadTo begin, can you tell us a bit about yourself and how did you get into the photography world? Do you have any formal training in your background?
I do not have any formal training in photography but I grew up around my parents who were both avid photographers. My mom used a Nikon FM2 to capture flowers and she used the photos as a inspiration in her paintings. Eventually, the FM2 was handed down to me and I got into the hobby of developing my own photos in my makeshift darkroom /bathroom. I purchased my first digital camera ( Nikon D3) when my father became hospitalized for 6 months and I wanted to document that part of our lives. In the last 3 years, I managed to sell my DSLR and transitioned to shooting with the Leica M10 Rangefinder.
What fascinates and motivates you most being a photographer?
The Creative Process of Making a Photograph. The Leica has really allowed me to slow down and compose /frame my subject. Recently, I have been collaborating with models/artist in creating photos that play with light in the studio or nature light. I have found this really enjoyable creatively and it is a bit meditative for me cause there is a lot of planning for a successful photo
Tell us a bit more about your project. Is there any particular message you would like to get across to the viewers?
The beginning of this year, I wanted to push myself outside of my comfort zone and learn how to shoot people. My goal has been to work with different types of people and experiment with a style and hopefully define my style along the way. I basically reached out on social media looking for groups that had similar passion. These groups were easy to find and people were open to work with new photographers cause everyone was tired of the "shelter in place" behavior after a year .
What type of projects are dearest to your heart? Why?
Portraits of people that can be considered fine art. I gravitate to the photos that have light /shadow as a companion to the person. I really love the work of the Russian Photographer George Mayer
What advice would you give to someone looking at a career in photography?
Shoot Shoot and Shoot. Experiment and begin to define your own style. These are also the words I follow and still trying to define my own style
Is there one piece of equipment or prop that you cannot live without?
V-flat. They are so versatile
Do you look to other photographers for inspiration, or does your inspiration come from other sources?
I find inspiration on instagram from other photographers. But I have also like studying the work of Rembrandt and try to mimick the light using studio lighting.
How has photography influenced or changed you as a person?
In the collaborations with models on a TFP basis, It has really opened me up and help me communicate with strangers. It may sound silly but I am a introvert
What exciting new project should we expect from you in the future?
I have a few ideas working Tajh Malik in shooting silhouettes of him with splashes of lights using gobos .
Where can we see more of your works and get connected with you?