Meet Emily Choy | Wedding photographer

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

Hi Emily, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Over time, my approach to work-life balance has transformed significantly. Initially driven by a relentless pursuit of success and improvement, I found myself immersed in a constant cycle of work. However, experiencing burnout prompted a crucial shift in perspective.

Slowing down and being intentional about the projects I take on has become a deliberate choice. This shift allows me to approach my work from a place of inspiration rather than obligation. I now prioritize quality over quantity, understanding that constant busyness doesn’t necessarily equate to a fulfilling life or quality work.

Today, I view work-life balance as an ongoing process, involving intentional decision-making, scheduled downtime, prioritizing health, and focusing on family. This evolution has resulted in a more sustainable and fulfilling creative journey, enhancing both the quality of my work and overall life satisfaction. The emphasis is on finding harmony between personal and professional aspects, contributing to a more meaningful and inspired creative process.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Certainly. My art is a reflection of my passion for capturing the essence of moments, particularly in the realm of wedding photography. What sets me apart is my commitment to creating a personalized and calming experience for couples. I blend a gentle and natural approach with editorial, fashion-forward, and documentary styles, utilizing a hybrid of digital photography, 35mm film, and 120 film.

I take pride in the intentionality behind my work, focusing not only on the visual aesthetic but also on curating an environment that is relaxed, calm, and safe for my clients. What excites me the most is the ability to tell the full story of a wedding day, emphasizing in-between moments, interesting compositions, and emotive imagery.

Professionally, my journey started about six years ago when I transitioned from a career as an occupational therapist to pursue photography full-time. The path wasn’t easy, and I encountered challenges, particularly in finding a balance between work and personal well-being. Recognizing the signs of burnout, I took a step back, allowing myself to recharge and produce higher-quality work from a place of inspiration.

Key lessons learned include the importance of intentional decision-making, prioritizing health and balance, and being selective about the projects I undertake. This evolution has led to a more sustainable and fulfilling creative journey.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am dedicated to not only creating beautiful imagery but also providing a unique and calming experience for my clients. My story is one of growth, resilience, and a commitment to capturing the beauty of love authentically. I invite the world to join me on this visual journey, emphasizing the value of moments and the artistry that stems from genuine connection and intentional storytelling.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1-2: Waikiki and The Royal Hawaiian Hotel Morning: Start your trip with a leisurely breakfast at Local Joe’s for a taste of Hawaiian specialties.
Late Morning: Explore the iconic Waikiki Beach and take a stroll along the Waikiki Beach Walk.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at House Without a Key at The Halekulani, followed by a visit to the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. Explore the historic Pink Palace and the beautiful surrounding grounds.
Evening: Dine at Azure for a fine dining experience right by the ocean.

Day 3: North Shore Adventure
Morning: Head to the North Shore for breakfast at Kono’s for their famous breakfast burritos.
Late Morning: Visit the Waimea Valley for lush botanical gardens and a waterfall hike.
Afternoon: Enjoy a seafood lunch at Haleiwa Joe’s and explore the charming town of Haleiwa.
Evening: Relax on the famous Sunset Beach and catch the sunset.

Day 4: Water Adventures and Sunset Sail
Morning: Take a surf lesson at North Shore Surf Girls for an authentic Hawaiian experience.
Afternoon: Grab a quick bite at Ted’s Bakery for their renowned pies.
Late Afternoon: Experience a thrilling ATV tour with Kualoa Ranch.
Evening: Wind down with a romantic sunset sail, perhaps with Hawaii Nautical.

Day 5: Cultural Exploration
Morning: Visit the Bishop Museum to delve into Hawaiian history and culture.
Afternoon: Savor lunch at Helena’s Hawaiian Food for traditional Hawaiian dishes.
Late Afternoon: Explore the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States.
Evening: Dine at Alan Wong’s Honolulu for a fusion of Hawaiian and Asian flavors.

Day 6: Beach Day and Live Music
Morning: Spend a relaxing morning at Kailua Beach, known for its turquoise waters and white sand.
Afternoon: Grab lunch at Cinnamon’s Restaurant in Kailua.
Late Afternoon: Return to Waikiki and unwind at the beach.
Evening: Enjoy live music and a beachside dinner at Duke’s Waikiki.

Day 7: Hike and Farewell
Morning: Hike the Diamond Head Trail for panoramic views of Oahu.
Late Morning: Brunch at Hula Grill Waikiki overlooking the ocean.
Afternoon: Explore the Honolulu Museum of Art for a dose of culture.
Evening: Wrap up your trip with a farewell dinner at La Mer for French cuisine and stunning ocean views.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Jai Long- his course and podcast D’Aracy Benecosa-her courses and podcast

Website: https://www.emilychoyphotography.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_emilychoy/?hl=en