Creative Spotlight | Eric Yang
Published on 26 August 2021
Tell us a bit about who you are and what kind of creative work you make
I am a photographer and content creator. Using the lens to capture precious moments of life has always been part of me. Through the journey, I have been shooting different subjects including portrait, landscape, architecture, street as well as lifestyle for all kinds of clients and partners. These include Google, Nikon, NatGeo, Vodafone, YouTube Music, eBay, Airbnb, Uniqlo, Calvin Klein, Merivale, Art Gallery NSW, MCA, Australian Museum, Carriageworks and more.
Whereabouts do you look for creative ideas? Who or what inspires you?
It come from all kinds of places but especially movies, novels, music, poems, and social media. The scenes in these types of content are a huge inspiration pool which really help my portrait photography which focuses on the mood and emotion. Instagram and Pinterest are also good places to look at where creatives share works and ideas. Talking about individuals, I would say Irving Penn, Vivian Maie, Fan Ho and Denis Villeneuve are all inspirations.
How does your personal history, culture or experience inform your creative work?
I believe my interest in novels, music and painting since childhood forms the person I am today. The exposure to different art forms since the early stage builds my way of thinking imperceptibly. It taught me to have a creative eye looking at things, which helps me a lot while taking photos.
Are there any special processes, techniques or tools you use to make your creative work?
If it is a specific project, I would have already pictured and processed how the photo would look in my head before actually shooting it. Before going to the location, I would have done some research to pick the best time and location to shoot the subject.
What is a creative project that you’ve worked on that you’re really proud of? Why?
It is called ‘Capture The Change’. Five other photographers and I teamed up for this project created by BNP Paribas. The aim was to capture the changes that are taking place around the world and in people’s daily lives. Looking back especially through this pandemic, it really shows how beautiful life is and reminds us to focus on the positive changes while working on the remaining challenges.
What’s your favourite part of working as an artist / creative?
It is a way to show case my view of the world. You create as free as you can, and the world is your oyster.
Do you have any top tips for emerging artists and creatives just starting out?
Be yourself. Always be yourself. Your uniqueness is what makes you stand out. Art is a very subjective thing, and it is almost impossible to make everyone love your work. Your work speaks for itself and the audience will follow. It may be difficult starting in the beginning but don’t be afraid. Everyone’s definition of success is also different. Keep creating, keep learning and never give up. You will be there one day.
Where can we find out more about your work and get in touch?
Instagram: instagram.com/humaninsydney