About

Photographical

Humble Beginnings

Having a mother who’s an artist has its perks and downfalls. On one hand, I got to play with the vintage Nikon FE since childhood and expose numerous rolls of undeveloped film on accident; on the other, she completely ruined my photogenic smile with her paparazzi fervor or editorial directing. “Serena, stand in [a ballerina's] Third Position, tilt your head and smile!” Not to mention, this was after she forcefully changed me into one of the many Storybook Heirloom dresses she bought directly from their warehouse, regrettably located next to my dad’s.

To this day, I have an irrational fear of wearing frilly dresses, but I love to photograph others all dressed up and ask for one small request, “Smile!”

Deliberate Practice

Considering that my childhood was heavily documented on film, I like to bring my camera everywhere in order to capture the fleeting moments, the joyous trips and life-changing adventures — with the mindset that photos become life’s most comprehensive souvenirs to reflect upon, when the details start to blur.

Looking through a lens actively forces me to seek what’s beautiful or grotesque, notice the details, and view the world with a little more patience and understanding. Through the years, photography has become a blossoming passion of mine, though always just a casual hobby; the start of this site marks the beginning of my journey as an aspiring photographer leaping towards professionalism.

Discovery

Some people spend a lifetime discovering their passions or trying to love their professions. Others never succeed in either and just settle for complacency. I’ve been extremely blessed to know since childhood where my interests lied and what talents flourished — just not what my exact calling was, though things always seemed to fall into place. I just had to take that leap of faith.

Wanting a little creative challenge, I studied architecture at UC Berkeley, only to graduate within three years and move on to publish a blog-inspired book, run my own design studio, then join a tech startup as their first designer. Though I may not be designing real buildings, I illustrate imaginary ones for iPad games; and while architecture firms are downsizing, I’ve watched our company grow out of two office spaces. Though a compilation of fobby anecdotes may not be of much literary merit, the experience of speaking at multiple book talks and conferences has helped me become a better communicator and stand up for any “art” that may be met with some resistance. My experiences as an architecture major, web & graphic designer, and now game designer & illustrator have all helped me overcome new challenges and expand my visual and business acumen. Photography is now another venture that might just make sense in the end.