1Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
I'm a native of Los Angeles and have lived in various points in California and Washington State. I love hiking and snowshoeing in the mountains, European-style architecture, and learning about other cultures. I have a strong interest in the environment and human rights.
I love to travel. I spent six months traveling through the Western United States. My international travels include exploring 30 cities in both Europe and South America. I recently traveled to New Zealand and Fiji for the first time in that part of the world.
Before I was born, my father was a working photographer, so the concept of photography has always been in my life. I carried a point-and-shoot film camera during high school and captured photos of my friends in the late 1980s. I've always taken photos but finally got serious about learning photography in October 2021 after seeing a spectacular sunset lenticular cloud formation around Mount Shasta at the top of California.
2Where did you study photography?
I've learned from various people online through YouTube, e-courses, and books.
3Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
The first photograph I ever took was at the Grand Canyon. I must have been around 5 years old. The photograph was of my 3-foot-tall doll Joanna, who was wearing a red vest, dark blue pants, and white shoes. She was leaning against a stone wall with the canyon behind her. I believe it was taken with a Kodak Instamatic camera.
4What equipment do you use?
I have a Sony a7R III and a 24-240mm Sony lens. I recently purchased a used Samyang 14mm manual focus lens for astrophotography and a DJI Mini 2 SE drone. I'm getting ready to fly it for the first time.
5What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
As I've gotten serious about photography, my Dad has been very complimentary and supportive of my work.
6What inspires your unique storytelling?
I'm still finding my voice in photography. In 2024, I'm looking forward to learning more about photography, what opportunities are out there, and exploring my interests. I hope in the future that I can create photography projects around environmental conservation, underwater photography, human rights - specifically the migration of people and Indigenous communities, and the beauty of this planet and its people.
7What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
Natural, colorful, and wide-open.
8Congratulations! As the winner of the MUSE Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
It's incredibly flattering to be recognized for my photography. It's another push forward on my path in photography. It gives me the confidence to keep pushing farther and realize that there are no boundaries. I can create whatever I desire.
9Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the MUSE Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
I think my photo "Lenticular Cloud Over Mount Shasta" captures a very special moment in the sky. On this spring day, I wanted to capture the overall grandeur of the mountain but also peek beneath the cloud where the mountaintops were hiding. Changing minute by minute, I watched the cloud morph atop the mountain, stuck in the convergence zone. I think it's quite a striking scene.
10How has winning an award developed your career?
I haven't started my career yet. I look forward to learning more this year and seeing what opportunities will be a good fit for me.
11Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Cristina Mittermeier, Paul Nicklen, and Rebecca Simrose.
12What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
For this one, I need to pull from the infinite wisdom of Instagram:
"Don't think you deserve the job? Apply for it anyway. Don't think your article is good enough? Publish it anyway. Don't think they'll reply to your email? Send it anyway. Don't self-reject."
Sahil Lavingia @shl on Twitter via @flyageless on IG.
13What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
There's room for you. Be true to yourself. Don't try to fit into anyone else box. You'll be happier this way. Create something unique. Learn, learn, and learn, don't be intimidated.
14What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Always keep learning and trying new things.
15How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
For 25 years I made my living as a web designer. I had to keep learning new things as the industry changed. Now, I'm putting that habit into more creative and enjoyable outlets like photography. I look forward to continuing that with music, watercolors, and jewelry making.
16Anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I encourage everyone to pursue whatever their hearts desire. Don't limit your thinking of what is possible. Every little step in the process is a step forward. Thank you to the MUSE Photography Awards and IAA for recognizing my photo in this contest.
