Today we’d like to introduce you to Shin Lim

Hi Shin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

Photography is my second career, as I initially started working as a media buyer in an ad agency after I graduated from Beloit College with a double major in Economics and Studio Art. After spending 4 years in the agency, I realized that working at a desk was not for me and I was missing my creative energy at work. I went back to school for photography and have been on this path since. I started assisting at the Chicago Tribune, interning for Paul Elledge Photography and working on photo assignments for Time Out Chicago while I was a photography student. After I completed my study, I moved to Singapore and worked for Pond Photography as an assistant and eventually worked as a studio photographer. After 2 years in Singapore, I moved back to Chicago and started freelancing full-time as a photographer. It has been a roller coaster ride in terms of learning the business side of photography and the ever changing technology of photography and photo editing, but I am fortunate to have people and resources around me that have helped me learn and grow in the industry. I don’t think the learning will ever stop and I hope to continue learning and to be the best that I can be.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?

As I mentioned before, this industry is forever changing between the technology of the cameras, lighting and image editing softwares. It sometimes feels overwhelming to try to keep up with it all. Also, as a freelancer, I also wear many hats besides being a photographer, I am also a business owner, so I need to learn about accounting, finance, marketing, social media and more. There are good resources out there so I just need to take advantage of them. I recently worked with a mentor from SCORE to earn about SEO and how I can use it to improve my visibility on the web. It definitely made a difference in my understanding of SEO and how it impacts my business.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?

I consider myself a people photographer. I photograph everything from headshots and family portraits to events and performances. I enjoy meeting new people and learning about them. Every photo shoot is an opportunity to learn something new from the people that I am photographing. Because I grew up in a multicultural society in Malaysia, I think it enables me to connect more easily with people with different backgrounds. As a photographer, I enjoy collaborating with my clients on how to translate their vision and ideas into images. One of my favorite projects was working with MADO Healthcare, an organization that helps people with mental illness with recovery and wellness. I was able to photograph their clients at one of the locations, engaging in various programs from fitness and counseling to cooking and education. I like the idea of using my photography skills to make a difference in people’s lives. I have been active pro-bono photographer for Flashes of Hope, Bear Necessities and Taproot Foundation. My portrait and fine art work has been recognized by the International Photography Awards, a global awards program for photographers around the world.

Do you have any advice for those just starting out?

Take advantage of all your free resources to learn and grow as a photographer and business owner. Join American Photographic Artists as they offer great resources for their members. I also recommend checking out SCORE for your business needs. You can get a mentor to work in any specific area you need help with. I worked with mine on improving SEO for my website. I know a lot of new photographers tend to work for free or less money, but I also think they need to realize the value of their work. When you charge less for your service, it also affects the photography industry as a whole as more potential clients start to expect more for less. There is an online worksheet called the Photography Cost of Doing Business, which every photographer should check out. It helps you calculate all your business costs so you know the appropriate amount to charge so you can cover your costs and pay yourself. Keep learning as this industry is always evolving.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.shinphotography.com
• Instagram: @shinphotography
• Facebook: @shinphotography

Image Credits
© Shin Photography