AROUND THE BLOK. VOL. 16 - Vincent Chung
The art exhibit Linear Notes was the first time I heard about Vincent Chung. The moment I saw his work, I knew we needed to have him as our next Around the Blok artist. Originally from New York, Chung came to Arizona to complete his BS degree at Arizona State University. Since being here, he's been gaining significant attention in the local art scene. You can view his work at the Mountain Shadows Resort gallery until August 31st and keep up with him on Instagram at vincentkchung. We're gracious to have Vincent sit with us for this segment of ATB!
Tell us about yourself?
Well for starters I am originally from New York City. I moved around quite a bit as a kid, spent a short moment of my childhood in Brooklyn then moved to Manhattan. I grew up mostly in the lower east side, and I think this played a big role in my life on becoming the person I am today. When you ask New Yorkers about the lower east side, you get the grit, you get culture. You get neighborhood kids with big goals and dreams. I always grew up around art and design. My mother was a seamstress who worked in factories, mass-producing designer dresses, and freaking sports jackets. My father was a furniture maker and a phenomenal artist. He’s what I call a traditional artist, always drawing up birds and animals to the detail. He had to give up his creative side to provide for the family, my brother, and I. The moment I realized that, I always told myself to never give up on what I want to do. I mean, you ask my friends, when I say I want to do something I will, by any means, make it happen even if the idea sounds crazy or even impossible at the time. Getting into art was not easy for me. My family are immigrants, and being a first-generation born here, you’re often told to pick up something sustainable; like being a doctor or some job that involves being in an air conditioned environment when its scorching hot out. I always loved working with my hands, and that was something I wanted to pursue even if it just meant to get by. My father always told me health over wealth. For me, creating art is something that allows me to help people see the truth.
Why do you do what you do?
I’ve always loved the potential of a narrative in a painting. You’ll see in my work that I sew textiles together, whether its canvas, linen, or dyed fabrics. To me, that is my way of telling a story, because every piece is done at different moments; with different emotions, perspective, and energy. Almost like a hands-on visual journal that ultimately becomes this bigger picture at the end. But you know, it's hard to accept that your intentions don’t exist anymore the moment you show a piece for the world to judge. My work tackles several topics like emotional impact over time. I’ve always studied how colors affect mood. Something I've recently been experimenting and documenting is how these visuals and colors trigger my viewers' memories or get them to think about what they believe. They start to create a story of their own, and I just find it fascinating.
What benefit does art provide to society?
The era we live in now is far different from the period I grew up in. In this modern age, the digital age, we are all drawn to these technological devices in our hands. I call it the age of instant gratification. When we see something we’re not drawn to, it's so easy for us to swipe to the next screen or move on. So in my work, I confront this matter by exposing materials and mediums in their imperfect ways that begin to draw nature of the materiality to the foreground. People are so drawn to perfection that we often forget to celebrate the imperfect, something that drives us to be better than we were yesterday. I hope my audience see these imperfections in my paintings and change the way we value labor in today’s era.
What’s your advice to others chasing their dreams?
It’s cliche to say do not give up. Few of my friends showed me this commencement speech given by Jim Carey. Don’t quote me on it but it went a little something like this... You’re going to fail. You’re going to fail at what you don’t want, so why not take a chance at doing something you love? Do not be afraid. Often times we expect the rewards now and if not tomorrow, but who knows, maybe you’ll make it in a week, a month or even a year from now. There are so many people out there with the same dreams, goals, and aspirations as you and every day you are not working towards your dream, someone out there will beat you to it. All you really have to do is take it one step at a time but most importantly.. make that progress, take that new step every single day. It is not easy, and it’s never going to be easy. I will give credit to today's’ digital age on its’ capabilities that allows us to share content so easily. Just share it with the world. We’re all going to create or do something that doesn’t fill our satisfaction. Whether you’re creating bad or good work, you’re making something; and that something will make you better the next go around. Take advantage of modern technology, go reach out to your idols on social media or whomever you’re wanting advice from or do work with. The worst that can happen is you don’t get a response, makes it so much more satisfying when you make it.
What is your biggest inspiration and why?
My family, my friends back home, my friends here, who’ve become my surrogate family. Also my dog! I love my pup, Stella. She’s a great studio buddy. Everyone I surround myself with is so talented in their craft, and that drives me to continue creating. In a way, they’ve become my muse, and I thank each and every one of them for their continual support.
When you think of home, what comes to mind?
Home has a lot of different meanings. When I think of home, I think of good company, good food, family and great friends. Arizona and New York City are both my homes. I do miss the constant police sirens and people yelling out in the streets. After all these years I’m still getting used to the crickets at night. I’m just grateful to have people who support me with what I am doing. Makes it easier to call both these places my home.
Our Top 5 Ways To Build Up Your Photography Portfolio
It’s overwhelming to build up a photography portfolio before you have a long list of paying clients, let alone a portfolio you are proud of. A lot of thought goes into each image you choose. You ask, does this reflect me as an artist? Is the quality high enough? Does it speak to my ideal client?
These thoughts can be even more daunting when you feel that you don’t even have the right images to put into your portfolio. A lot of beginner photographers (or photographers trying to move to a different type of photography) wait to be hired for that ideal shoot, rather than create it for themselves. But, the problem with this approach is that it’s rare that a client would hire a photographer for a job if they don’t see proof in their portfolio that shows their capability in that field. For example, a restaurant probably wouldn’t hire a photographer to shoot their menu if that photographer doesn’t have at least a couple food images in their book.
It’s up to you to create a portfolio that lands you the jobs you want. The good news is that you can do this, even if you don’t have any clients yet. Try out our top 5 ways to build up your photography portfolio.
Product Only Shoot
Shoots that only involve products are a great way to begin building a commercial-focused portfolio because the expenses are minimal. There’s no need to hire a model, the set can be small, and with care, product and props can be returned after the shoot. We love these small Savage paper backdrops for small product shoots.
Pro tip: Try contacting your favorite local boutique to see if they need any products photographed for their social media channels. If so, offer to do it for free if they tag you in the post. You can also do this with local restaurants if you want to break into the food photography game.
Image by @SneakyCatKara
Test Shoot with New Models
Just like you’re looking to expand your photography portfolio, there are new models looking to add more images to their book as well. If you are a little more established, you can reach out to a modeling agency and ask if they have any new faces that need to be photographed. Keep in mind with an agency, they will likely provide creative direction based on what needs to be added to the model’s book. If you want more creative freedom, try reaching out to unsigned models in your area on Instagram. You can discover them via an area studio’s Instagram page and by searching your city’s fashion week hashtag. You can also send out an open model call on your own social pages. Whichever route you go, make sure to always have a signed model release before you begin shooting.
Pro Tip: Partner with a makeup artist and stylist to ensure a high-quality shoot. Make sure to share final images with everyone who participated for use in their portfolios.
Image by @SneakyCatKara
Portfolio Building Workshops
Attending a portfolio building workshop is by far our favorite way to quickly add quality images to your book. Most workshops will include a couple different backgrounds and lighting set-ups (called bays), models, a hair and make-up artist, a stylist with wardrobe options, producers, studio space, and a variety of props. All the intensive planning is done for you, just show up with your camera and shoot! We especially appreciate that there are people on set that can answer your questions about lighting, making it an ideal option for photographers less versed in strobes. Overall, workshops are a great bang for your buck since the cost is significantly cheaper than setting up a similarly scoped shoot yourself. Plus as a bonus, at workshops you can network with established industry creatives in your area.
Pro Tip: We have a Portfolio Building Event coming up this September. Check out all the details here.
Registration goes live August 19 and spots are very limited!
Second Shooting and Assisting
Looking for a low pressure way to capture great images? Try being a second shooter for a more recognized photographer or asking if you can assist them for free. This is a great way to make connections, learn on set problem solving and snap some of your own images along the way. You rate as a second shooter will depend on your experience level. Assisting isn’t the most glamorous work, but the skills you learn are priceless.
Pro Tip: Make sure to capture some behind-the-scenes images of the photographer on set as a ‘thank you’ for the opportunity.
Image by @SneakyCatKara shot during down time on set
Story-Driven Body of Work
Creating your own self-directed, story-driven photo series may not seem as closely related to gaining new client work, but we promise it is. What’s beautiful about personal photography projects is that they are engaging talking points in conversations with potential clients. They give others a glimpse of what you care about, find intriguing, or have something to say about. Your topic could be anything that you are interested in or want to explore, the only criteria is that the end project is a cohesive body of work that tells an overall story.
Pro Tip: On your website, write an explanation of the body of work, known as an artist’s statement, to accompany the images and help the viewer have clarity on the ideas you were trying to express.
Image by @SneakyCatKara - see the full body of work here
Have you tried any of these tactics or have any additional suggestions for building up your portfolio? Share below in the comments!
BLOK BEATS: Berly's Styling Playlist
Our summer intern and shoot stylist, Berly, likes to chill out while she is pulling looks for shoots. Check out her custom playlist that she plays when pairing clothes together:
More about Berly:
• Favorite thing in your closet right now: My neon multi-color Falcon W Adidas sneakers
• Best piece of advice you’ve received: If you get, give. If you learn, teach
• Favorite movie ever: Oh boy! It’s a Disney movie, Dumbo
• Astrological sign: The friendly goat: Capricorn
• Biggest strength: Perfectionist
• Biggest weakness: Sensitivity
• One thing you need every morning: Warm lavender tea
• Who’s your biggest inspiration: Maya Angelou
• What does music do for you: It’s everything, I love discovering new artist everyday
• What’s it all about: Being kind and humble
• Favorite cocktail: Blueberry Basil Moscow Mule
• Favorite food: Oh it’s cheesy! Pizza!
• Favorite midnight snack: Chocolate ice cream
• Describe yourself 10 years ago in 3 words: Creative, Dreamer, Curious
• Where do you go to relax in the world: Clear night sky with millions of visible stars!
• You’re having a party, what song do you kick it off with: Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough by Michael Jackson
• What do you love about styling: I love that it begins with an artist who created a design and made it come to life for someone to wear. Styling gives me the freedom to pair one artist’s work with another artist’s creation to complement one another and create something new.
• Favorite thing to style: A timeless vintage piece!
• Something people don't realize about styling: It’s an oasis for a clouded mind.
Follow us on Spotify for more curated playlists:
BLOK BEATS: Wyatt's Shoot Playlist
Our studio coordinator, Wyatt, loves to groove while he shoots. Check out his custom playlist that he listens to when he’s in the studio.
More about Wyatt:
• Favorite thing in your closet right now: Right now my favorite piece of clothing would be my salmon pink short sleeve button up with these cute little cacti on it.
• Best piece of advice you’ve received: Don’t waste your time only thinking about the negative in life. Life is too short.
• Favorite movie ever: My favorite movie has to be Looper by Rian Johnson. That movie got me interested in film and how movies are made.
• Astrological sign: I am a Capricorn Sun with a Virgo Moon.
• Biggest strength: I like to think my biggest strength is my ability to become friends with just about anyone. I love interacting with different people and making connections.
• Biggest weakness: I overanalyze and overthink things a lot.
• One thing you need every morning: I always need an hour of just peace and quiet where I can have some coffee and plan my day.
• Who’s your biggest inspiration: That’s a tough one. I draw a lot of inspiration from a lot of different people, but my parents have always been role models for me.
• What does music do for you: Music does a lot for me. Sometimes I use it to just relax or I’ll use it to motivate myself. I use it a lot while shooting and editing to keep going. I also love how music can incite so many different emotions. One minute you’re vibing to some Steve Lacy in the studio and then the next you’re racing 90 mph on the freeway jamming to some Gideon.
• When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur: I didn’t really know I wanted to pursue being an entrepreneur until last year. I loved the idea of creating what I want and being a part of something different every day. I also thrive in a collaborative and creative environment.
• What’s it all about: Just being happy, humble and enjoying what you do every day.
• Favorite cocktail: I love a good Old Fashioned.
• Favorite food: Pizza. Pizza has always been there for me.
• Favorite midnight snack: I try to be a good kid and not have sugar late at night, but sometimes that Cherry Garcia calls to me.
• Where do you go to relax in the world: My hideaway is in the wonderful city of Estes Park, Colorado.
• You’re having a party, what song do you kick it off with: Caroline by Amine.
• What do you love about photography: I love lighting a scene and seeing the final result. It’s such a rush to put in the work and bring your vision to fruition. I also love the collaboration with the subject to create the perfect emotion.
• Favorite thing to photograph: My favorite thing to photograph is definitely people. I love interacting with others and seeing their reactions when they see themselves on the screen. The emotion and the energy that you get when two individuals are creating art together is so much fun.
Follow along for more curated playlists:
Benefits of The Pre-Light
Not all productions are created equal and time is always of the essence. If you've worked on any major (or minor) commercial project, you most certainly understand how important the schedule is, especially when tied into a budget. With so many different crews working, variables to consider and decisions to make, it's relatively easy to fall behind schedule and the amount of time you'll have for problem-solving is limited. The last thing you'll want to hear as a photographer is, "How much more time do you need." This is why Pre-Lighting is essential.
Pre-Lighting is to light your set or scene before the start of the official shoot. It's usually just you and your crew onset, staging, and testing lighting, working through problems and discussing the workflow. That lighting concept you had in mind may not be suitable for this scenario; maybe there's a distracting shadow or glare that you didn't foresee occurring, maybe the setup needs to be modified to be more safer onset. Each shoot comes with its own set of problems, pre-lighting allows you to identify and eliminate these problems when time is less of a priority.
Not all jobs will accommodate a pre-light day, nor is one necessary for all situations. Sometimes you get a whole day, other times you get a few hours, a lot of the time even less. A pre-light will allow everyone to reach maximum potential during the most crucial parts of the production and you'll have more time to focus on your subject, and getting the shots needed.
To help, we’ve included a checklist that includes things we consider while working through a pre-light day.If you’re interested in expanding your skillset on lighting, please see details about our upcoming lighting class.
Pre-Light Checklist:
✔️Are my strobes powerful enough for the results I need? Things to consider power output, recycle time, battery life, flash duration.
✔️Do I have supplemental gear to in case we need to add light to specific areas?
✔️Do I need to add gels to manage color?
✔️Do I have all the lighting modifiers I need? Consider the desired quality of light, hard, soft, directional.
✔️Do I need any grids or additional diffusion to control the light even more?
✔️Are my modifiers right for the effect I need?
✔️Do I have flags, cutters, and fill cards to add and block light?
✔️Do I have enough grip to build my set up?
✔️Does this lighting align with the art direction?
✔️Does the lighting meet the needs of post-production?
✔️Can this setup be manageable on shoot day?
✔️What is the power requirements for my setup, and will I have enough onset?
✔️Test all camera gear to ensure everything is operating correctly.
✔️Do I have enough batteries and sufficient charging capabilities for all devices? Laptops, Triggers, Cameras, Light meters, etc
✔️Create 1-2 contingency plans for lighting.
AROUND THE BLOK. VOL. 15 - Andrick Aviles
I’ve known about Andrick for years but never met him personally until recently. I would see portraits of him and his tattoo work through the blogs and feeds of mutual friends. The amount of detail he illustrates in his tattoos is a fascinating aspect for me. But his story is even more inspirational, from tattooing people in his home as a migrant from Mexico to owning one of the premier shops in the city. His client list includes athletes such as Amare Stoudemire, Adrian Wilson, and hip-hop artist such as the Game. You can catch up with him on his Instagram. It was an honor to meet and chat with Andrick, and we’re happy to have him as our next guest for Around the Blok!
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF?
Hello! My name is Andrick! I was born in Mexico City, Mexico, and raised here in Phoenix, AZ. I love tattooing, long walks on the beach.....just kidding. No, but I really do love tattooing. I started tattooing when I was a Junior in High school, and I had no experience or any apprentice experience at all. I would practice on all of my friends, including my Art teacher Ms. Hansen in class. Yes, I tattooed her in class. I am naturally introverted, so I never spoke much, but I expressed myself with this medium and other forms of art. Nothing has changed.
WHY DO YOU DO WHAT YOU DO?
I love anything that has to do with design and creating something from nothing. Having a blank canvas such as a panel, skin, piece of paper, etc. and creatively generating something that wasn't there before really inspires me. Art is everywhere, and creating keeps me alive.
What benefit does art provide to society?
Art provides healing and freedom. With art, anything is possible, and anything can be created; because it is limitless, it helps society to dream. Also, for many, art is an escape from their day to day to enter a world full of possibilities which provides a sense of healing and liberation. Those that are marginalized in our society do not have a true voice that is often heard, and for them, I can include myself in this as well, art has given us a voice to tell our own stories which in return gives us a sense of empowerment. We need more of that in underrepresented communities to uplift each other, that is why art is so important.
What’s your advice to others chasing their dreams?
Just do it! Stop holding yourself back. Stop overthinking and making excuses. There is never going to be a perfect time to start, so start today. My advice is to go sober and stay clear-minded because it is important to take care of your body. Also, listen to your intuition and don't over think what anyone else has to say, this is your life, not theirs.
What is your biggest inspiration and why?
My family. My parents are the most hardworking people I know, and they never give up. My siblings are all artists, and they are all creative in their own way, as well as express their art differently. I love that we all help each other with ideas and encourage each other to keep creating. Their support and creativity have lead me to where I am now.
When you think of home, what comes to mind?
I'm really big on family, so to me, being together with them feels right. It doesn't matter where we go, I always feel at home with them.
BLOK BEATS: Thomas' Shoot Playlist
Thomas Ingersoll, commercial photographer and Blok EDU educator, loves a fun, laidback set when photographing. Get the same vibes on yours with his custom playlist.
More about Thomas:
Favorite thing in your closet right now: My Shuka the Masaai Tribe gave me while I was in Tanzania.
Best piece of advice you’ve received: Tomorrow comes today.
Favorite movie ever: Tombstone.
Astrological sign: Whatever people tell me.
Biggest strength: My intrigue with humanity.
Biggest weakness: Complacency, I think we all have a sense of comfort in routine, or escapism.
One thing you need every morning: Solitude and Coffee
Who’s your biggest inspiration: Jordan Peterson for living a more desirable life, and a slew of photographers.
What does music do for you: I use music as a language to communicate to myself and to others.
When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur: I never had a defining moment. I gravitated towards the creative industry in my early 20’s, and over time I found opportunities to grow.
What’s it all about: The exploration of humanity, our relationship with each other, and with death.
Favorite cocktail: Margaritas
Favorite food: Mexican
Favorite midnight snack: Anything sweet
Describe yourself 10 years ago in 3 words: Misguided, Distractible, Naive.
Where do you go to relax in the world: Exploring any part of our little blue planet.
You’re having a party, what song do you kick it off with: Anything from Earth Wind and Fire.
What do you love about photography: I love that it’s a vehicle from consciousness to reality.
Favorite thing to photograph: Genuine People.
Follow along for more playlists:
BLOK BEATS: Kara's Shoot Playlist
Music makes all the difference on set. Check out what our studio manager, Kara, listens to when photographing:
More about Kara:
Favorite thing in your closet right now: Every jumpsuit
Best piece of advice you’ve received: Out of struggle comes strength
Favorite movie ever: Fantastic Mr. Fox
Astrological sign: Capricorn
Biggest strength: Visualization
Biggest weakness: Procrastination
One thing you need every morning: Cuddles with my pup
What does music do for you: Brings me joy
What’s it all about: Loving others
Favorite cocktail: French 75
Favorite food: Green Curry
Favorite midnight snack: Chips and cheese
Where do you go to relax in the world: A pool
You’re having a party, what song do you kick it off with: This Is How We Do It by Montell Jordan
What do you love about photography: Its playfulness
Follow along for more playlists:
AROUND THE BLOK. VOL. 14 - Malakai
For this segment of Around the Blok, we bring you Malakai. A fearless, passionate, and dedicated creative vested in visual storytelling that empowers those with a voice. We’re grateful to have her as our next feature. Enjoy!
Tell us about yourself?
I’m an award-winning director (Sundance/Horizon Award) who enjoys giving back to my community through the visual arts. I would call myself a disrupter. As well as this, I am a director, artist, philanthropist, activist. I develop and direct branded, digital content as well as narrative content as well. My goal is to empower, build and to fuck shit up in the best way.
I want to tell stories that are imaginative and powerful. Being a young black girl that was born and raised in Mesa, Arizona, I’ve always been a part of Arizona – but often, I was not surrounded by those who reflected me. I was able to take those myriads of experiences as I moved forward – and develop them into something bigger. For me, the opportunity to create, develop and build here as an artist has shaped my world view and who I am today.
I founded my production company, Malakai Creative for this very reason. The opportunity to curate and build worlds was what enabled me to find myself as a director. On the philanthropist side, I am also the founder of the 501c3, Made In Her Image. We give back by educating young girls of color within the film, media, and technology. Our recent partnerships include Paramount, Disney and, Universal.
Why do you do what you do?
Everything I develop is innate and passion driven. I’m here to really build a legacy and trajectory that will help others tell their stories. Filmmaking is the medium, but it is so much more than that. I love installative art, events, development and curriculum building as well. The more I progress, the more I feel at home. Building the world visually, and metaphorically is what I was meant to do. I want to give young women the opportunity to create what inspires them. I myself want that opportunity as well and will continue to do the same. I make movies.
What drives you to continue to create?
What drives me to create is my innate self and sense of power. I am here to create whatever I want, and to be brave in doing so. I love being able to prove people wrong. I love curating films and narratives that are full of power.
What benefit does art provide to society?
Without art, we wouldn’t exist. Art is the epicenter of self-expression. We kill for art. We die for art. We live for art. Everyone has something to say, whether it’s on a minimalistic scale- or smaller.
What is your biggest inspiration and why?
My biggest inspiration is my parents. I’ve watched them build and carry on a legacy. They’ve instilled in me what it means to operate and curate a legacy.
When you think of home, what comes to mind?
Arizona is my home. Here, I feel like the possibilities are endless. I’m here to build. I’m here to keep creating and making something happen. Although I’m bi-state now, Arizona has always been the space that has provided me opportunity.
Malakai’s latest project, Souls, will be featured at the Phoenix Art Museum in June. “SOULS is a visual exhibition, photographic art & and film installation that captures the totality of mortality, blackness and Afro-futurism.” Check out the teaser below!
BLOK BEATS: Khoa's Shoot Playlist
Want to know what our studio coordinator, Khoa, kicks it to when he’s photographing? Check out his favorite songs to play when shooting.
More about Khoa:
Favorite thing in your closet right now: H&M blue chino pant
Best piece of advice you’ve received: Go with the flow, be like water
Favorite movie ever: Leon the Professional
Astrological sign: Leo
Biggest strength: Imagination
Biggest weakness: Silly socks
One thing you need every morning: Coffee
Who’s your biggest inspiration: John Sargent
What does music do for you: Inspires me
When did you know you wanted to be an entrepreneur: When I was a teenager
What’s it all about: Be nice and be kind to each other
Favorite cocktail: Margarita
Favorite food: Sashimi
Favorite midnight snack: Potatoes chips
Describe yourself 10 years ago in 3 words: Small business owner
Where do you go to relax in the world: nature and quiet places
You’re having a party, what song do you kick it off with: Balada-Gustavo Lima
What do you love about photography: When everything fits together perfectly
Favorite thing to photograph: People and objects