Interview
Eetane Yong
Australia
Eetane Yong, based in Melbourne, Australia, embarked on a photography journey 15 years ago, with a primary passion for children's portraiture. Since her early years, she has been attracted to beauty that transcends mere physical appearances, finding admiration in the elegance of movements, emotions, sounds, and the intangible aspects of life.
1 Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
I am Eetane from Melbourne, Australia. I picked up a camera 15 years ago, my favourite genre is children portraiture, I also love photographing nature and animals. As a child I was always drawn to beauty beyond the physical form, I admire beauty in movements, feelings, emotions, sounds, the intangible. I got into photography by accident as described in Q3, thinking back now it might have been a resonance brewed in divine timing, sprinkled by the right amount of curiosity and intrigue.
2 Where did you study photography?
I am 100 % self-taught!
3 Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
Yes vividly! I discovered the wonder of natural light by accident, while photographing my infant daughter by a large window 13 years ago. Unlike the on-camera flash, the light were so beautiful and dimensional it sent me down the rabbit hole of learning all about natural light and photography, and the rest is history.
4 What equipment do you use?
I was a Nikon user for over 15 years and have just switched my camera system to Canon. I love both brands equally, after using Nikon for so long I figured I just try a different system because I am a bit of a curious being! Currently I use a Canon R6, my go to lens is Canon RF 70-200mm f / 2.8 IS USM Lens. I use this lens 90% of the time, occasionally I will switch to 24 - 70mm f/2.8 lens if needed be.
5 What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
The biggest compliments always come from my clients. I photograph children extensively, it warms my heart greatly when I receive appreciative texts, emails or reviews on how much these images meant to them as parents. Other inspiring compliments come from winning awards, because it fuels the motivation, passion and keep the creativity going.
6 What inspires your unique storytelling?
My work represents authenticity, emotion, and soul connection. I want to capture my subjects in their element, being unselfconscious and in flow. I think that's why I am very drawn to photographing children - they are always in their zone and pure thoughts.
7 What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
Jumped the gun in the last question lol. Authenticity, Emotive, Soul Connection.
8 Congratulations! As the winner of the MUSE Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
The recognition meant the world to me! This is my second year winning multiple awards across several of categories. I am grateful and humbled to be recognised along with so many talented photographers around the globe, and to be part of this awesome award competition.
9 Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the MUSE Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
I entered 5 images this year and all entries have won either a Gold or a Silver. The images are all personal work focusing on the beauty and intricacy of my subjects, which I find aligns with the state of mind of what I wanted to showcase in this award.
10 How has winning an award developed your career?
I feel that the accolades have definitely contributed to increased clientele, level of credibility, and self-empowerment.
11 Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Sue Bryce, Richard Wood, Peter Rossi.
12 What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
Have a goal and take small steps towards it every day, you will only get better.
13 What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
Start today and don't wait! We live in the world where information is literally at our fingertips. Learn and make mistakes as you go, it's the best and quickest way to be skilled and experienced at something.
14 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
The key to success is to follow the heart. For me in business this means showing up as authentic as I can in my work representation and in relationships. In creating personal work, go with the feeling and style that resonate highly because that generates joy and flow. And never stop learning!
15 How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
A curious and open mind :)
16 Anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I am very grateful to be part of this award community. Your platform inspires many creatives to pursue their dreams and explore their own genius, so thank you!
