Interview: Photographer Ken Soliman (Philippines)

Can you tell us a little about you?

My name is Ken, I’m a husband, a father of 2 young adults and I’m also a trainer for a healthcare account here in Sta.Rosa City province of Laguna. I’m also head of events and planning committee for The Laguna Photography Club.

How and when did you get into photography?

It started when a friend from Germany sent me his dslr because I was only using a point and shoot camera during that time. I had to educate myself on the technical and creative aspects of photography and started doing personal projects to hone my skills. I posted some of my work on social media until someone hired me from the United States to cover a wedding.

What does photography mean to you?

I remember one of my idols in photography saying when you become a true photographer it’s not something you do, photography becomes who you are. It gives me a purpose, and now I want to inspire others too so I became an educator.

Please briefly describe your photography style for our readers.

I love the outdoors because it represents life and nature, reason why most of my shoots are done with natural light. I do shoot indoors as well both for clients and my personal projects. For me there are three things that needs to be present to achieve a great picture, lighting, design, and emotion.

Where do you get inspiration from?

I get inspiration from the things around me, it could be a theme, a venue, a person. It’s unlimited.

Do you think in advance what you want in the picture?

Planning is important to achieve the look that you want , but there are some situations that I would just bring my camera and come up with an idea on the fly.

Studio, on location or both?

I prefer location shoots and travelling to new places to get inspired. I don’t mind shooting indoors as well for certain look or theme.

Would you consider yourself a hobbyist or a paid professional?

I’m a paid professional currently with a modelling agency, however a shoot a lot of personal projects just to try new stuff for lighting and techniques.

What has been your most memorable session and why?

It was during my birthday and my friend took me to Yosemite National Park, It was where Ansel Adams shot a lot of his masterpiece. I was blown away by the beauty of the landscape.

Nikon or Canon? Favorite lens?

My first dslr was a canon eos 300d, but I’m currently using Nikon bodies to shoot professionally.

What is one piece of advice you would like to offer a new photographer looking to start their own business?

It’s not enough that you take great pictures, you have to know the market for your business to succeed. Photography these days is not the best business because of the pandemic, in order to survive you must learn how to talk to people and promote your photography.

What do you think of our new magazine?

The quality is very good and it’s a great way to feature new talents and those who are underappreciated. It’s an honor to be selected here and I wish you guys all the best and hope to see more issues in the future.

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