Code to camera: A photographer’s journey

KUCHING: Photography freezes time, transforming fleeting memories into lasting treasures.

Think of a loved one’s smile or the joy of a wedding day — these are the moments that make life beautiful.

However, amid the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to forget these significant occasions.

Yet, as someone once said, the greatest way to save a memory is through a click and a print — a photo.”

Meet Aaron Ong, owner of Three Eleven Photography.

He stands out as a unique sorcerer who wields not a wand but a camera capturing the essence of life’s most precious moments.

From code to camera

With a computer science degree, Aaron’s transition from coding to clicking wasn’t exactly mapped out, but rather a bold leap of faith.

“It wasn’t really planned per se, though I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures,” he said.

It all began during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 when he received a camera from a friend.

“My friend gave me a camera, then I started to learn how to take photos.

“Two years later I decided, why not turn it into a business? And voilà!” he shared.

Throughout the journey, Aaron described it as nothing short of amazing — not knowing what each shoot would hold.

“The journey has been amazing because I got to meet many people that I never thought I would meet.

“For example, I was able to shoot for Belle Sisoski during the Borneo Sonic Music Festival, and I got to stand just a few feet away from Taeyang,” he said.

Known for his fun and outgoing style, Aaron believes in bringing out the natural joy in his clients.

“I think art is about putting myself on the table, so many times, my style is really about having fun and clients just being their natural self,” he said.

The best part: Growth

Becoming a freelance photographer meant having to start alone and from scratch, but his determined faith kept him going.

“It was a really big step of faith for me, but I learned and kept going despite the criticism and negative feedback because I learned to see it as a good thing,” he said.

Throughout the journey, Aaron said he met many other experienced photographers who inspired him and some were even willing to invest in him which he considers the best part of his journey.

“Many may know Desmond Ong, Chun Chow, Ju Shiu, these are some of the amazing people who were willing to teach me and give me a chance, which to me is the best thing about this journey,” he said.

Another person who has been a significant pillar of support and biggest critic who contributed to his determination through tough times is none other than his wife.

“I really thank God for my wife, she’s my best encourager, worst critic, and she always helps me to get back on my feet,” he said.

A tearful shoot

As Aaron recounts the past four years of his career, he recalls a standout shoot that truly holds a special place in his memory.

“It was a last-minute pro bono shoot, where I was called in to shoot a wedding in a hospital,” he recounted.

What made it memorable was the touching scene he beheld.

“That wedding was between a couple where the bride had a critical illness, yet they decided to come together which is by far my most memorable shoot.

“It wasn’t a tiring or tedious wedding to shoot, but it was challenging because of the tears I had to wipe away while shooting,” he said.

The challenges

Despite all the growth and opportunities, in reality, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges.

“There are many high seasons, but many low seasons as well.

“To me, the most challenging part of my job is the inner insecurity I need to battle with,” he said.

He explained that having to put his artwork out there not knowing whether people would like it, is truly a big challenge.

“I think that’s the hardest part for many artists.

“Imagine putting your artwork out there, not knowing whether people would appreciate it or whether it’s even worthy,” he said.

Additionally, sustaining oneself financially as a freelance photographer is challenging.

“The freelance word itself basically states there are unpredictable high and low seasons,” he said.

However, Aaron said the opportunities he has had have lightened the weight on his shoulders.

“There are peak seasons to a point where clients are chasing after you for their photos, but there are low seasons as well which definitely aren’t easy.

“But I thank God that thus far, I have been provided with a lot of opportunities which has sustained me till today,” he said.

The photography community

The one thing Aaron loves about this industry is the community.

“Knowing one another and building connections with different photographers is fun and nice to know you’re not alone,” he said.

Looking ahead, he hopes to be able to bring that sense of community into his business and use it as a platform for newer and aspiring photographers or creatives.

“I really hope I can build a team, because I highly believe that it’s never a one-man show in the photography business,” he said.

His initial struggle is a battle he hopes he can relieve for those newly stepping foot into the industry.

“I understand the struggle, the insecurity to put your artwork out there, so I hope I can create that platform for younger people or aspiring artists to take their first step,” he said.

Sarawak’s assistance

Being in a fluid industry, he is grateful for the various government initiatives aimed at easing and assisting freelance photographers.

“One thing I’m thankful for is the GoDigital Sarawak initiative led by the Ministry of International Trade, Industry and Investment helping small and medium enterprises kickstart by providing hardware and software for their businesses,” he said.

Additionally, with the recent rise of events and festivals, he noted that this creates even more opportunities for photographers.

“There are so many events and festivals happening throughout the year, like the Rainforest World Music Festival, Borneo Sonic Music Festival, Borderland Music Festival, Borneo Songwak Water Music Festival, jazz festivals and so many more!

“This creates opportunities for photographers to have jobs, which I’m really thankful that the government can assist us in that way,” he said.

“Perhaps my wish is that I hope the government can assist us further by notifying us on how and when to tender for projects so that everyone has a fair share of competition,” he said.

Encouragement for aspiring freelance photographers

To step into the ‘grown-up’ world is never easy, but Aaron encourages all aspiring and young freelance photographers to share their art, especially through social media platforms.

“Just create that Instagram or Facebook or TikTok account, and start to put your artwork out there because you never who you will meet,” he encouraged.

He also advised that they start with voluntary offers to build a portfolio.

“Why not start with free jobs? I think that’s a great step to navigate and network with people in the industry, so just put your work out there.

“Don’t be afraid, don’t be scared, take the criticism and feedback to better yourself each time,” he advised.

Aaron’s journey from code to camera has been nothing short of a testament to the power of following one’s passion and embracing the unexpected twists and turns along the way.