Focusing on Naomi Ching's photography

By DIANA ROSLAM (diana@mystarjob.com)

Naomi Ching is no stranger when it comes to photography. She has been a full-time photographer for more than four years, mainly focusing on weddings due to the high demand. She was named one of the “Top 10 Female Wedding Photographers” in FACES magazine last year.

The curious cat

Ching's love for photography started when she was in university, and led to her working as a graphic designer at a bridal house. She has spent years editing wedding photos, designing graphics and even shooting wedding photos herself. Always the “curious cat”, she has never stopped learning, querying and watching people taking photographs.

For Ching, every couple is different, and it creates different experiences, photos and styles. It usually takes her two weeks to prepare the photos, for a certain client or project. She loves the fact that she gets to learn and understand different cultures as she is taking photos.

Marketing yourself

Ching's business actually started off with her blog. Through blogging, she learned how to showcase her talents through photos and communicate with her clients through storytelling. Slowly, the client base grew and there seemed to be a higher demand for wedding photography.

She now has her own company and some clients even book her services one year in advance to avoid disappointment.

“Initially, I offered discounts and vouchers to attract more clients, and I have always tried to provide excellent service,” says Ching.

Some clients were friends of friends, blog readers and Facebook fans. Clients prefer to discuss with her the details of their wedding and this gives her an opportunity to explore her creativity.

Learning photography

According to Ching, photography is like problem-solving. Studying, endless practise and observing other photographers are the way to go, coupled with passion and interest.

“Join a club, forum, explore and try or follow other photographers. Take your time exploring and practising. Getting the right image is hard, but if you keep asking questions and practise, you will grow and learn to be a good photographer.

“It’s sometimes a challenge when you have the image in your mind but it looks different when you capture it. You need to be able to get the right photo; that’s the most important,” she says.

This is where Ching recommends learning techniques and getting ideas from other photographers.

Money + passion = photography?

Good cameras, accessories and related equipment are not cheap. For passionate photographers like Ching, cost isn't a hindrance as it is an investment. She uses a full frame camera - Canon EOS 5D, with several different lenses – the 24-105mm f4, 12-24mm f4, 35mm f1.4, 50mm f1.8 and 70-200mm f2.8.

“Seeking advice from professionals is good to avoid buying the wrong camera, accessories and kits. Get tips and testimonials from blogs, forums and magazines and keep yourself up-to-date with the current trends, reviews and recommendations,” says Ching.

Asked for a lens recommendation, Ching offers the 24-105mm lens as it has an undeniable sharpness and the wide length feature is great for family or group photos. For close-up photos, she recommends the 105mm as the length is good and it's not too heavy.

Photography and women

More and more women are going into photography. Ching believes that women learn as fast, perhaps faster, than men sometimes and although not as energetic or physically strong as men, women have the ability to push further to shine in this industry. “I think photography and women make a good pair, especially when it comes to weddings. It’s easier for us women to join in all the closed-door activities, besides the regular ones,” says Naomi.

Taking photos wouldn’t be as awkward, too. “I get to voice out my concerns and give opinions as to what I think the client would like to have,” she gushes.

Two cents worth

As a photographer, it’s not just about capturing the moments; you need to have a strong relationship with the clients.

Discipline is the key to success. “You have to be careful how you work with clients; your responsibilities to them, the promises that you make and your punctuality.”

Understanding the client is the most important thing. “Once you have their trust and support, you get to experience the pros of the job, such as being flown everywhere and not having to pay for travel and accommodation,” exclaims Ching.

Diligence also helps. One needs to study smart. Ideas grow as technology progresses.

“As a photographer, you might be tempted to follow people's styles, but try not to. Learn from what they have done and do your own thing. Don’t ever give up and keep on doing what you love,” stresses Ching.