We had the good fortune of connecting with Danya Chen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Danya, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I grew up in the Bay Area of California to two Chinese immigrant parents. Growing up, I struggled between my Chinese heritage and American surroundings. At home, life was one way and at school, it was another. They rarely lined up, which made me question my priorities, morals, and identity. Stereotypically, I grew up with the career options of doctor, lawyer, or engineer. None of those things spoke to me and it took a lot to convince my parents to let me study photography in college. From there, I opened my own photography business specializing in weddings with many doubts from my family and others. Like many other Asian Americans who strayed this path, proving my parents wrong has always been my main motivation to growing my business.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Light means everything when it comes to my photographs. The way the sun kisses the couples’ hair, or the way the dynamic rays and shadows emphasize the moment–it all tells a story and elicits a feeling. It took many years to truly find my own personal style and approach when photographing people’s most intimate moments. The only way was by doing more. So while my oldest work is not my most proudest, it’s all part of the journey that made me the photographer I am today.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would not be where I am without my husband, Andre. He has been there with me every step of the way–from filing my business with my county, to when I photographed my first paid wedding, to now, where I’ve achieved every business goal I set out to make in 2017. Without his support, I truly would not be where I am today.

Website: www.danyachenphotography.com

Instagram: @danyachenphoto

Facebook: Danya Chen Photography

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