9 questions with Fujifilm X-Photographer, Benny Ang

This is the 2nd of a series of interviews with the Fujifilm X-Photographers of Singapore. Fujifilm X-Photographers are all professionals working in partnership with the brand and users as ambassadors who bring a breadth of knowledge and vision to the brand across multiple photography genres.

The Interview

What does ‘photography’ mean to you?

I see photography as an extension of my vision – my interpretation of the world. Ten photographers shooting the same subject will likely present ten different interpretations.  My photographs are infused with my thoughts, emotions, and perspectives of life,  expressed in the instant of an exposure.

Share a word or short phrase that best describes your photography style?

I aim to express my subjects with authenticity. In this age when the trend is to exaggerate and distort reality for the sake of gaining more eyeballs, I maintain that my images should engage the viewers with realism and relevance.

A lot of my work revolves around people photography, and I use my craft to bring out their best, rather than depending on computer editing or make-up to transform them into another person. I want to create a portrait of my subject looking his or her best, not a photo of a good-looking person bearing little resemblance to my subject. I communicate with my photographic subject and encourage self-confidence to present them in their authentic best.

Share which is your favorite Fujifilm camera and why?

That would be the Fujifilm GFX 50R. For professional photographers, sensor size is a huge determinant of quality. Fujifilm has managed to pack a medium format sized sensor into a relatively compact chassis, delivering incredible image quality beyond 35mm full-frame sized sensors. Fujifilm GFX 50R demands strong fundamentals from the photographer, but the resulting image quality is nothing short of perfection.

Share one quirk or characteristic about you that others don’t know

My belief is that ‘less is more’. I do not believe in ‘shots-spamming’ and then choosing the best one out of a few thousand images nor do I use unnecessarily complicated lighting set-ups, to me these actions reflect a lack of foresight and self-confidence in your vision. There’s an old saying by tailors to “measure twice and cut once”, meaning one should think and plan thoroughly before proceeding.

I spend time connecting with my subject, understanding their requirements and conceptualizing the shoot. When it comes to executing the photography process, people are often surprised at the relatively minimal amount of time and equipment for my session. Posing for the camera can be tiring, so I work fast to get the best expression. The subject is happy that the shoot is quick, and I’m happy to get great images. At the end of the day, “less” is really the result of “more” thought and planning.

How do you improve yourself as a photographer? OR Who/What has inspired your vision?

My personal belief is to keep myself vulnerable as a photographer and as a person. I do not concern myself with styles or schools of thought, but instead, embrace pragmatism and new discoveries, and strive to remain fluid with thoughts and ideas. To me, that is the very essence of being alive, keeping our mind open and sensors alert and ready to learn, synthesize and evolve!

You would have shot a lot of excellent photos by now, but if you are allowed to choose only one shot that still manages to pique your interest even today, which is it?

Image taken using X100F

I shot this image in Melbourne with Fujifilm X100F during a street festival. This lady suddenly turned around with such intense personification. It was one of my most soulful encounters, and I managed to capture this decisive moment thanks to the intuitive and fast operation of the X100F. It is one of my favourite images due to the surreal mood, her intense expression and the mystique of the shot. A good photograph should intrigue the viewer every time you look at it, and that is what this photo does for me.

What is the toughest part of being a professional photographer?

Some clients equate higher fees to getting more tangible benefits, such as more images, longer sessions or bigger prints. They don’t believe in paying for creativity or experience. But the reality is nobody expects a bigger steak at a Michelin Star restaurant just because they paid more; they know they are paying for the creative interpretation of food, the ambiance and service quality. Sadly, this logic sometimes does not extend to photography.

It is certainly easier to compare tangible deliverables instead of creativity, but it’s a sad day when photographers have to compete on price or number of images instead of creative brilliance. Professional photography is a craft, so we definitely appreciate clients who can discern quality and creativity, and work with us to create outstanding images that stand out.

Which aspect of photography brings you the most joy?

I’d say it’s the ability of a photograph to transform into a thought. A client was browsing through my bridal photos when he turned to me and said, “Benny, I never thought love could be this beautiful.” The realization that my photographs can help transform someone’s concept of love made all my effort worthwhile.

What is the one thing that you really want to do next?

An artist can only fully devote to their craft when freed from the shackles of financial dependence. I look forward to the day when I can pursue photography purely as art without any commercial consideration, so I can truly express my vision and attain self-actualization through my photography. And that’s a wrap to the interview.

And that’s it, folks.

If you are interested in collaborating with Benny, he can be reached at [email protected].