Ivy is a self-taught photographer, a single mother who is always juggling 2-3 jobs to make ends meet. She has worked in the culinary industry while doing photography for many years. Thanks to Covid-19, 2 unemployed individuals (Harold and Ivy) decided to team up together and start this new venture, 20/20 Photographers. One of their first photoshoots together was to photograph a chef. That experience was so mind-blowing and inspirational that, that was it, Ivy saw the light and is determined to become a Personal Brand Photographer specializing in Culinary Professionals. She found a new inspiration in something that best combines the two worlds she knows into one.
Q & A with Ivy
When did you start photography?
My passion for photography started when I was a teenager. It was still the period of using film cameras. When it came time to decide my major at the university, I struggled and ended up choosing business over photography for the reason of not wanting to disappoint my mother. It took me years and years to realize my regret.
What is your favorite style of photography?
As much as I love taking portraits with my subjects posed, I also love to capture candids. I even love blurry pictures as long as the personality, feelings, and emotions are delivered. I am not so hung up on the technical aspects of photography but place higher value on the image itself.
What is your favorite dessert?
Ice cream. Ice cream. Ice cream.
Do you speak different languages?
English and Chinese.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Hong Kong and spent 6 years in Australia for high school and university. I came to the US in 2005.
Favorite place you've traveled to?
New York, Madrid, Maui.
What is your favorite band/genre of music?
I am more of a lyrics girl who also loves classical music.
What inspires your photography?
It has always been people. Like the flash-forwards in ‘Run Lola Run’, when I meet people I see how they are framed in my photographs, not that I actually foresee their entire lifelines.