Amanda Lim's Photographic Journey
Tuesday Mar 29th 2011
We caught up with Amanda Lim one of Sydney's favourite fashion photographers and talked to her about how she ended up behind the lens.
When did you know you wanted to be a photographer?
Since I was young I have always favoured visual imagery. I grew up experimenting with all sorts - whether it be painting, drawing, collage, chinese brush calligraphy, or photoshop.. It wasn't until I started high school, and in particular this one shoot with my friend Ellen in the darkroom, that I realised I could use photography to create an image. At that point, photography to me was no longer just a device to record and document, but rather an instrument for image making and thus a tool for self expressionism. I ventured on to photograph some more, I won a few awards and prizes and was featured in the local newspaper. It looked favourable.
By the time I finished high school I was at crossroads to decide the career path I should take. I had always aspired to be creative and I will always blame my chinese background for the lack of freedom one is entitled to when it comes to that decision. Since we are young, we are told to be a doctor or a lawyer. I grew up watching my parents work very hard to support us so I guess I felt guilty, I diverted my dreams and went on to study chiropractic at uni.
While at uni, I found the science degree to be creatively depriving, the classroom was dull and miserable and I was hardly inspired to learn. After a year, I decided to take photography more seriously and began shooting for myself, It was the greatest feeling to be able to experience this creative fulfilment. I skipped lectures and spent my nights planning shoots instead of studying, and it eventually took over. I had graduated from my bachelor degree and was one year into my masters before I decided to quit the conventional road to pursue the bigger dream.
What has been your biggest inspiration so far?
New York. The zest, the feeling, the energy, the vibe of this place is nothing short of inspiration. It is the place where movies are made, songs are written and where fashion meets art. It is the place where I believe makes dreams reality.
What is your dream shoot, if you have one (no expenses spared)?
I would love nothing more than to shoot at an old parisian castle with Natalia Vodianova. She would be dressed in some beautiful couture gowns and be surrounded by thousands of Cirque dancers paying homage to her grand presence.
I'd also love to build sets and play with props... one day it will happen. My ideas are subject to change.
Model of the moment?
Natalia Vodianova. She was helping her mother sell fruit at a market before she was discovered as a model. I think she is striking and beautiful not only on the outside but also within. She has a side project where she builds playgrounds for the children in Russia, and even though that may not be a necessity I think it is a beautiful joy for her to give.
What is your ideal Sunday?
A good sleep-in followed by all day breakfast with good company at a nice cafe, and taking my puppy Baxter out to explore new adventures.
For more head to http://door121.com/amanda-lim
