It was perfect because we really enjoyed working with each other during our shoot the last time. I was a bit concerned that I couldn’t deliver the standard of images she was expecting because I had not photographed weddings for a long time, and especially not one where I was the main photographer.

Luckily, everything was as close to perfect as I could’ve asked for. The weather was nice and sunny although incredibly windy, the settings were gorgeous, everybody looked fantastic. It was a simple ceremony but Nataliya and Bastien’s style is nothing short of class so same went for the whole day. Basically it was the ideal wedding anybody could’ve photographed. We were all really happy with the photos and who knows maybe I might photograph a few more weddings next summer (although breaking my rule of trying to stay away from them!).

Michele Yong is a young fashion photographer. She is very ambitious and she has a very promising future undoubtedly.

Julie : Hi Michele, Can you tell us about your about professional career?
Michele : I am a fashion and portrait photographer currently based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Which was your best shoot and why?
I can´t say I have one best shoot because I try to make every shoot better than the previous one. Usually a really good shoot would be because of great connection with the team and an ideal set up or situation. I find that I always produce better work when everybody working together understands and connects with each other very well.

I don´t know much about the fashion industry in Malaysia, can you introduce us to that?
The fashion industry in Malaysia is still very young and new unlike in Paris, London or New York. The past few years there have been a handful of talented young designers that are just starting to show. There has not been much exposure for local designers because everybody usually focuses on international names. I think the industry still has a lot more to grow and develop before people will pay more attention to Malaysian designers. Currently a lot of the local designers work with Batik (a Malaysian/Indonesian traditional textile) or focus more on creating evening wear. I think we need more designers to create original ideas for ready-to-wear to make the industry more marketable.

I noticed that in your portfolio you had photographed very few Asian models. Why is this?
In Asia, Caucasian models are still higher in demand because of their “international marketability”. There aren´t as many Asian models that fit the basic height requirements needed unless they are from Asia Pacific (China, Japan and Korea). Personally I also prefer to shoot models with very strong Asian facial features, which I think is quite rare and difficult to find especially in South East Asia. Most of the big model agencies in Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand also have more Caucasian models to choose from compared to Asian models. However, I think there is a growing demand for Asian models on the runway so hopefully that will change.

You travel a lot for your job. Which country or city do you prefer and why?
Paris is definitely my favourite so far. I like how so many things there are influenced by art, everything is so beautiful and inspiring. In fact, I plan to relocate there this year if everything goes according to plan. I also really like Bangkok because the fashion industry there is very fresh, original, and creative. The people there are really talented. Hong Kong is also a very good place for fashion

For you what is the best part about your job (fashion show, shooting, travel, etc.) and why?
I love fashion, working with creative minds, meeting new people and of course traveling to discover new places and influences. I like that my work always brings new challenges and a change in surroundings. I get bored quite easily so I think this is one thing that I can´t get bored with!

What is your preference to bring some change in your career (money, opportunity, meeting, experience…)?
Money of course, I can never seem to have enough of that! And of course more work opportunities because that can even change my life.

What are your first impressions on fashion in France?
When I was in France, I noticed that the fashion there is more structural and uses a lot of classic silhouettes compared to other parts of Europe. The focus and direction of the designer is usually quite straightforward. It is very clean and “simple” in the idea of presentation yet very elaborate in the design and workmanship and I like that a lot.

Which photographer or model inspires you most?
Currently I´m very much inspired by Georges Antoni, an Australian fashion photographer. I love how he sees the world in a slightly more distorted point of view and he has an amazing eye for light. My favourite models remain to be Hye Park and Kate Moss

What is your favorite clothes brand?
Wow, I have too many to choose from! If I had to say it would be Christian Siriano, Givenchy and Balenciaga but if we are talking about consumer brands, definitely Zara and Topshop.

What are your plans as photographer?
I hope to relocate to Paris in 2010 and start a new life there as a photographer. I think there are more career opportunities and better exposure there for me. I also really like the culture and lifestyle there. Even though I´ve not been there long it feels almost like home to me so hopefully I am making the right choice and will not be disappointed. Maybe some of you can advice me on that?

By Julie Psaila

03/2010

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