Today we’d like to introduce you to Roey Qiu.

Roey, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

My journey in photography began with a deep fascination for visual storytelling. I have always been drawn to the way images capture emotions, identity, and unseen narratives. Over time, photography became my primary medium for expressing complex themes, particularly those centered around empowerment, individuality, and human connection.

I am particularly inspired by natural light and the unpredictability of the environment, which often influences the mood of my work. There have been moments when I set out to capture a specific atmosphere, only to be met with unexpected conditions. Rather than forcing control, I embrace these challenges, allowing them to shape the final images in ways I hadn’t anticipated. This adaptive, intuitive approach is central to my creative process.

Beyond shooting, I spend a significant amount of time in post-production, fine-tuning each image to enhance its emotional depth. My experience with Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom allows me to carefully craft colors, tones, and compositions that feel both organic and intentional. Whether working in a studio or on location, I am always exploring how light, movement, and subject presence interact to create meaningful visuals.

For me, photography is more than just capturing an image—it’s about revealing a moment that resonates beyond the frame. My artistic practice continues to evolve as I experiment with new techniques and perspectives, always searching for ways to push visual storytelling further.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—artistic growth rarely is. Photography, for me, has always been a process of constant exploration, and with that comes uncertainty, self-doubt, and moments of frustration.

One of the biggest challenges has been finding my own visual language. There are endless ways to approach photography, and at times, I questioned whether my work was meaningful or if it resonated the way I intended. The more I experimented, the more I realized that my strongest images came from moments of intuition—when I stopped overthinking and simply trusted my instincts.

Another challenge has been adapting to uncontrollable circumstances. Photography often relies on elements that can’t be fully controlled, like lighting, weather, or the unpredictability of a subject’s emotions. I’ve learned that rather than resisting these moments, the best approach is to embrace them, allowing them to shape the work in ways I hadn’t planned. Some of my favorite images have come from situations where things didn’t go as expected.

Despite these struggles, every challenge has led to growth. Photography is not just about technical skill but about patience, adaptability, and seeing beauty in imperfection. I’ve learned to trust the process, let go of rigid expectations, and allow creativity to unfold naturally.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

My work explores themes of identity, empowerment, and emotional depth through photography. I specialize in portraiture and fine art photography, focusing on capturing intimate, often unguarded moments that reveal the subject’s inner world. My images aim to evoke a sense of connection—whether it’s through the use of light, composition, or the subject’s expression, I strive to create visuals that feel personal yet universal.

I am most proud of the way my work resonates emotionally with viewers. Some of my most meaningful projects have been those where the subjects themselves see a new side of their own identity through my lens. Photography, to me, is not just about taking a picture—it’s about creating a space where people feel seen, understood, and empowered.

What sets me apart is my ability to embrace unpredictability. Instead of forcing control over every detail, I let the environment, the subject’s energy, and natural elements shape the final image. Whether it’s an unexpected shift in lighting or an unplanned gesture, I see these moments as part of the creative process rather than obstacles. This approach gives my work a raw, authentic quality that feels alive rather than staged.

At the core of everything I create is a desire to challenge conventional ways of seeing and offer new perspectives through visual storytelling. My practice is constantly evolving, and I remain curious about how photography can continue to push boundaries and reveal deeper narratives.

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?

Finding a mentor and building a strong creative network can be challenging, but I’ve learned that genuine connections come from shared interests and meaningful conversations rather than just seeking opportunities.

One of the best ways to connect with potential mentors or like-minded creatives is to put yourself in spaces where meaningful discussions happen. Attending exhibitions, artist talks, and workshops has helped me meet people who inspire me and challenge my perspective. Instead of approaching these events with the mindset of “networking,” I focus on having real conversations about art, photography, and shared creative struggles. Some of my most valuable connections have come from simply exchanging thoughts after an exhibition or engaging in discussions about a particular project.

Another important approach is being open to learning from peers, not just established mentors. Some of the best advice I’ve received didn’t come from someone far ahead in their career but from artists at a similar stage, facing the same challenges. Engaging with creative communities, joining critique groups, or participating in collaborative projects has been incredibly helpful in shaping my work and broadening my network.

When it comes to mentorship, I believe that mentorship happens organically rather than through formal requests. If someone’s work truly inspires me, I make an effort to engage with them—whether through conversations, asking insightful questions, or showing genuine appreciation for their practice. Over time, these relationships often develop into mentorships naturally.

Most importantly, I’ve learned that networking isn’t about collecting contacts; it’s about building real connections. Whether online or in person, being genuine, curious, and willing to share your own experiences makes all the difference.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.roeyphotography.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roeyqiu_photo?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y%3D

Image Credits

Some pictures are from one of my exhibitions.