Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Toby Zeng. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Toby , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

Professional artists should treat their creative work seriously, adopting discipline and routines. I understand the importance of valuing creativity professionally. Artists who approach their craft with dedication and structure can find fulfillment, regardless of occasional curiosity about conventional jobs.

Toby , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

The world of photography was introduced to me by a class in high school. When I was in ninth grade, a teacher introduced me to the beautiful art of photography. From that moment on, it became a passion. Like any love relationship, mine is marked by both highs (and lows). The dream I had to study photography at college was dashed when life decided that it would be better for me to pursue a finance degree. But the artist inside me wouldn’t let go, and I have been pursuing photography as a side interest ever since.

My primary fascination is capturing the human figure. But unlike traditional portraits I strive to present the human body in unconventional and distinctive ways. Every angle, click reflects my own unique perspective. This uniqueness of approach also translates into my digital presence. My collection of work can be found on social media with the handle “@tobyseeingtings”. The name “@tobyseeingtings” is testament to my devotion to composition, and my unique perspective.

What sets me apart from the rest? It’s all about my vision. Photographers from all over the world have their own unique stories to share. My narrative, in particular, when it comes to interpreting the body of a person, is unique. They aren’t just photos; they’re also conversations, feelings, and untold storylines.

I am very proud of the progress I’ve made, as both an artist and an individual. I want to make it clear that “@tobyseeingtings is not a brand, but a perspective. A unique viewpoint. And a celebration. I invite you to dive into my universe and you may find yourself seeing things in a way you have never seen before.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Tim Ferriss’s “The 4-Hour Workweek” radically reshaped my approach to entrepreneurship and management. Ferriss challenges conventional work structures, emphasizing optimization, automation, and outsourcing. As a manager, it shifted my focus from clocked hours to process efficiency. As an entrepreneur, his principles on ‘mini-retirements’ and flexibility influenced how I structure my ventures, aiming for both freedom and fulfillment. Essentially, the book underscores that success is not just about financial gains, but about crafting a purposeful and liberated lifestyle.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

My passion for photography began simply. I loved capturing life’s special moments in images. When I was faced with the decision to make this hobby my career, I hesitated due to financial expectations which could limit creativity and expression.

A pivotal point in my photographic journey led me to choose photography as a hobby rather than a career. It was a decision that freed me of financial stress while also allowing me to express myself freely. I no longer had commercial restrictions that restricted me. By separating myself from photography financially, I was able to form deeper and more authentic relationships. Passion can remain the same without adding financial pressures. It’s sometimes best to let passion be pure.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.tobyzeng.com
• Instagram: @tobyseeingthings

Image Credits
TOBY ZENG