Meet Toby Zeng | Photographer

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

Hi Toby, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
There are many ways that photographers can improve their skills and become better at their craft. Practice regularly: The more you practice, the more you will become familiar with your camera and develop your skills. Experiment with different settings and techniques: Try out different camera settings and techniques, such as shooting in different lighting conditions or using different lens focal lengths, to see how they affect the final image. Study the work of other photographers: Look at the work of other photographers, both contemporary and historical, to get ideas and inspiration.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Toby Zeng first found his passion for photography when he began experimenting with taking photos of every day on his iPhone when he was in high school. Later on, he was able to continue with his passion and went on to study photography at Bard College in upstate New York where he got the opportunity to further explore his craft and build areas to fit himself into. After spending time away studying abroad, he is now based back in China where he is focusing on commissions and personal projects.

His current area of interest is in contemporary photography of urban space and people shot through a focus on composition and color, using it as a means of looking at the world differently.  The materiality of his work is rooted in the contemporary perception of natural space combined with the photographic medium of stylized landscapes. The pieces he creates address everyday experiences in a multitude of forms, from urban environments to portraiture; calling into notice the beauty, physical concentration, and our relationship to what is familiar. Toby uses the language of photography to challenge the methods and assumptions of our interactions with the everyday.

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?
I do have a few suggestions for things to do and see in Vancouver, British Columbia. Firstly, Stanley Park. A large urban park is home to many walking and biking trails, as well as a variety of wildlife. It’s a great place to spend a day outdoors taking pictures. Secondly, Granville Island: the Island is home to a bustling public market, as well as many galleries, studios, and theaters. It’s a great place to find unique local products and enjoy some of the city’s arts and culture.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to thank my high school photo teacher Christopher Hutchinson. His passion for the subject is contagious, and I have truly enjoyed learning from him. Chris’s guidance and encouragement have been invaluable, and I feel inspired to continue pursuing my passion for photography. Thank you for being such an important part of my education and for helping me to grow as a photographer.

Website: www.tobyzeng.com

Instagram: tobyseeingthings