As the old saying goes, a picture tells a story of a thousand words. No one knows this more passionately than Izhar. Armed with a camera, he wanders along the streets of Singapore in search of authentic and hidden stories to showcase through his photography. Let’s get to know the man behind the lens and uncover his story for a change!
Q: Could you briefly introduce yourself?
A: Hi, I’m Izhar, my close friends call me Bob. I’m working as a coffee machine technician and I love photography!
Q: What made you interested in street photography?
A: I actually started dabbling in photography by capturing buildings and architectural stuff as I find them easier to capture without feeling any pressure. Then as I progressed more into this photography line, capturing people in their environment slowly became my interest. I realised that these kinds of photos are more challenging and there are always stories to tell behind each photo.
Q: What does photography mean to you?
A: I’m an introverted person, so the only way for me to express myself to the world is through photography. Photography also makes me calm and relaxed. All the stress simply disappears whenever I’m holding my camera.
Izhar will usually shoot photos on his off days. Either early morning or late afternoon.The natural lights during these timings.
Most of the photos are not planned.He will choose a place, hang around that area to look for good shots .
Q: How do you best capture your subjects in photography?
A: Be observant and quick to react to any possible good captures. Wherever I go, the first thing is I always make sure that my camera’s settings are ready based on the locations I’m at. So, when the right moments come, I just capture my subjects. The more candid the subject is, the better! That is the real them, I believe.
Q: Could you explain in detail your process of taking photos?
A: Usually it will be on my off days, either early morning or late afternoon, as the natural light at these timings are the best.
I normally choose places like Chinatown, Tiong Bahru or Little India because these places still have the old school vibes and people are friendly. Most of the photos are not planned. Usually, I will choose a place and hang around there looking for good shots.
I will only set a maximum 2 hours for each photo walk due to time constraints. Sometimes I manage to get a lot of good photos, and sometimes not so much.
” I will only set a maximum of 2 hours for each photo walk due to time constraints. Sometimes I manage to get a lot of good photos, and sometimes not so much. ” – Izhar
” Be observant and quick to react to any possible good captures. ” – Izhar
Q: Any tips for beginners or aspiring photographers?
A: Just a few simple tips.
1. Expensive gear does not make you a good photographer.
2. Don’t let negative comments about your photos demoralize you! Believe in yourself. Remember you take photos because you have the passion for it and not to impress others.
3. Shoot a lot of photos. The more photos you shoot, the more you will improve!
4. Be humble always.
Q: What are your future plans? What are your dreams?
A: If I took up photography during my younger days, I might already have my own photography company by now! Too bad, for now, I can only do this as a hobby as I’m turning my focus towards spending more time with my family.
If in the future, people approach me to guide them on street photography. I am more than happy to share my knowledge as I always believe in the phrase “all good things must be shared”!
Do check out some of his work here: https://www.instagram.com/bob.izhar/
written by : Stephanie
I like his simple way of explaining his hobby. Refreshing. Photographers wannabe,…. this is good stuff you can begin with.
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