Foodies are everywhere, but do you know anyone with a strong passion for food as Zachary? Food photography is taken to the next level as we talk to Zachary about his love for photography and of course, food!
Hello Zachary! Tell us more about yourself!
Mild-mannered writer by day, superhero by night. Before I was introduced to the world of advertising, I was a part-time barista, a Math and Science teacher, a social media writer and an audit intern. Today, my Accounting & Finance degree sits in my drawer collecting dust.
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What is your full time job?
Currently a full-time copywriter at McCann Erickson.
When did you first discover your passion for food photography?
I strongly believe that good food is meant to be shared, so if I can’t share my food in person, I’ll do it through pictures and words. It’s my way of showing the world how I see the beauty in food. This started three years ago, before cafes started sprouting all over the country.
Share with us the best highlight of your life as a food photographer!
Last year I received a parcel from Netflix and was extremely surprised by its contents: one of them was a Netflix trophy acknowledging my work on Instagram!
What is a typical day in your life?
A typical day as a creative at an ad agency usually starts a bit later than most industries. But that doesn’t mean I get off work early. Sometimes I get to have dinner at 9PM in the comforts of my own home, but there are days where I lose track of time, place and everything else because I’ll be working for two or three days straight. It can get pretty exhausting, but when I see my work out there, the personal payoff is emotionally gratifying.
The only time I get to (sorta) repay my sleep debt is during the weekend. Once I’m done with that, I’ll head out to some of the most recent cafes in town and start snapping away! Sundays are usually reserved for my favourite dramas, movies and books.
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Do give us some tips on how to capture the perfect photo!
It’s all about light. It all boils down to the kind of lighting you use or get in different situations. Whether it’s ambient or natural, light makes or breaks your shots. Props definitely help, but sometimes you just have to experiment and find your style. It took me quite some time, so don’t fret if you don’t get it right the first ten times.
We totally adore your IG feed! What kind of editing apps & camera do you use?
Thanks! You just made my day. Most of my photos are actually taken with my handy iPhone and edited with Snapseed. And if I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll whip out my DSLR.
Name 3 of your favourite photography essentials that you can’t live without.
My “Nifty Fifty” (it’s a 50mm lens), Snapseed and a power bank.
Any Instaworthy cafes that you personally like?
Boy, this is a tough one! If I have to narrow them down to three places, I’d have to pick these: VCR, Merchant’s Lane and Wild Sheep Chase.
Do you have any food photography idols?
Another tough one. There’re just so many talented photographers out there. My personal favourites are Nora Eisermann & Laura Muthesius, Ashley Alexander and Viola H.
Any life mottos?
Take life one step at a time.
Who is your all time inspiration in life?
The Flash, Quicksilver and every other superhero who can break the sound barrier. On a serious note, I think the people around me are really important, because they’re the ones who shape and inspire me in countless ways. These people are my family, friends and of course my partner.
What is the ideal weekend for you?
Waking up at 3PM in the evening, losing myself in a good book and indulging in a cup of freshly brewed coffee.
Tell us what makes you smile the most? ☺
Nasi Lemak, Char Kuey Teow and Banana Leaf Rice. Oh, and desserts. Definitely.
Where do you see yourself in 2 years’ time?
Still doing the things I love most. And hopefully by then I would’ve done some work that I’d be really, really proud of.
