Interview with Eetane Yong of Eetane Yong Photography

BY Maizura October 26, 2023

Eetane Yong | MUSE Photography Awards

Eetane Yong

Eetane Yong, based in Melbourne, Australia, embarked on a photography journey 15 years ago, with a primary passion for children's portraiture. Since her early years, she has been attracted to beauty that transcends mere physical appearances, finding admiration in the elegance of movements, emotions, sounds, and the intangible aspects of life.

I'm Eetane Yong and I am from Melbourne, Australia. My journey with photography began a decade and a half ago, and over the years, I've developed a deep passion for capturing the essence of children through my lens. Beyond that, I also derive immense joy from photographing the wonders of nature and the captivating world of animals.

My fascination with beauty transcends the physical realm; I find it in the grace of movement, the depth of emotions, the resonance of sounds, and the intangible aspects of life. Looking back, my entry into photography feels like a serendipitous accident, perhaps guided by a touch of divine timing and fueled by just the right blend of curiosity and intrigue.

I am 100 % self-taught!

Yes, vividly! I discovered the wonder of natural light by accident while photographing my infant daughter by a large window 13 years ago. Unlike the on-camera flash, the light was so beautiful and dimensional that it sent me down the rabbit hole of learning all about natural light and photography, and the rest is history!

I was a Nikon user for over 15 years and have just switched my camera system to Canon. I love both brands equally but after using Nikon for so long, I figured I would try a different system because I am a bit of a curious being!

Currently, I am using a Canon R6, my go to lens is Canon RF 70-200mm f / 2.8 IS USM Lens. I use this lens 90% of the time, occasionally I will switch to 24 - 70mm f/2.8 lens if needed be.

The biggest compliments always come from my clients. I photograph children extensively, it warms my heart greatly when I receive appreciative texts, emails or reviews on how much these images meant to them as parents. Other inspiring compliments come from winning awards, because it fuels the motivation, passion and it keeps the creativity going.

My work represents authenticity, emotion, and soul connection. I want to capture my subjects in their element, being unselfconscious and in flow. I think that's why I am very drawn to photographing children - they are always in their zone.

Authenticity, emotive and soul connection.

This recognition means the world to me! I am grateful and humbled to be recognized along with so many talented photographers around the globe, and to be part of the 2023 MUSE Photography Awards.

I entered 5 images this year and all entries have won Golds and Silvers. The images are all personal works of mine focusing on the beauty and intricacy of my subjects, which I find aligns with the state of mind of what I wanted to showcase in this award.

I feel that the accolades have definitely contributed to increased clientele, level of credibility, and self-empowerment.

Sue Bryce, Richard Wood and Peter Rossi.

Have a goal and take small steps towards it every day, you will only get better.

Start today and don't wait! We live in the world where information is literally at our fingertips. Learn and make mistakes as you go, it's the best and quickest way to be skilled and experienced at something.

The key to success is to follow the heart. For me in business, this means showing up as authentic as I can in my work representation and in relationships. In creating personal work, go with the feeling and style that resonate highly because that generates joy and flow. And never stop learning!

A curious and open mind.

I am very grateful to be part of the 2023 MUSE Photography Awards. This platform inspires many creatives to pursue their dreams and explore their own genius, so thank you!