Eric Lee: A self-taught photographer

Photography is a way to communicate and capture once-in-a-lifetime memories. Young photographer Eric Lee, who recently held his first exhibition at the Henessy Park Hotel, shares with us his pathway into this domain.   Having a camera does not necessarily mean becoming a good photographer. What separates a good photographer from the rest of the pack is eye for detail, ability to evoke emotion and personal shooting styles. A recent graduate in Mass Communications from the Charles Telfair Institute, twenty-two year old Eric Lee has been working as freelance photographer since 2012. This self-taught artist says his passion for photography started in childhood. “I remember taking my mum’s camera to take random pictures here and there. One of my uncles, who is a photographer/videographer, helped me to discover this field relatively early. Things got serious when I had my first DSLR at the age of 16.” What made him choose this field? “I am inspired by international photographers like Emily Soto, Annie Liebovitz and David Olkarny. The sentiments they convey are unique. The excellent quality of their work constantly motivates me to work harder,” he says. He has a weak spot for black and white photography. “Through black and white photos, we tend to focus more on the expressions and senses rather than the surroundings.” Specialized in fashion and portrait photography, Eric shares what he likes the most about fashion photography is the creation of an atmosphere/mood. “As I see it, a mood board is the key element to the success of any editorial.” On the other hand, portraits focus more on emotions and body language. “It is essential to be attentive and ready to shoot at any moment. This is so because we may miss a gesture or pose that we would not be able to replicate.” A photo can become a tool to express opinions and feelings. “Fashion photography conveys elegance, class and beauty. Portraits convey more personal messages or emotions. It is also a way to communicate on societal matters and sensitise the audience on a specific issue.” [[{"type":"media","view_mode":"media_large","fid":"18493","attributes":{"class":"media-image aligncenter wp-image-31574","typeof":"foaf:Image","style":"","width":"640","height":"360","alt":"Eric-lee1"}}]] Rewards and Career In 2015, Eric bagged the Best Photographer Award from the Backstage Award 2015 organised by the Henessy Park Hotel, in Ebène. In February this year, he held his first solo photo exhibition at the same hotel. ‘Intimacy’ – title of Eric’s month-long exhibition – showcased black and white portraits. This first exhibition has been both challenging and fruitful for the photographer. “It was a difficult task for both the models and me because I wanted them to reveal their real selves to the camera. I had to shoot the right intensity and at the right time.” Eric also collaborated on several local projects, such as the successful Porlwi by Light event. “The collaboration with other artists on each project is always the most enriching part,” he explains. The next big step in his career would be to go abroad and get international experience and exposure. His advice: “Believe in your dreams.” “If you keep on persevering and working hard, there is no reason why you would not reach your goals,” concludes Eric Lee.