Tell us a little bit about yourself, your education, your first job maybe, and how did you start photography?
I’m a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy. I own a wellness center somewhere in the south for almost 15 years already. I’ve been to different business industries (I had a wineshop and a signage & advertising business) before. I am an entrepreneur.
I found photography when a personal tragedy hit me. The passing of my daughter brought me to this industry. Photography became my outlet that time. I started shooting at the streets of Manila doing street photography as a hobby, then I met key persons along the way and introduced me to the advertising and fashion industry.
#fotografíaSpotlight © MJ Suayan, Fashion and Fine Art Photographer
What do you love most about what you do?
As an artist/photographer who doesn’t want to be boxed, I enjoy that FREEDOM. I have my own aesthetic and style as a photographer. As you’ll see with my works, it’s distinctive. You’ll be able to see how I play with the processes to come up with an image. I enjoy the freedom, I enjoy that I am in control on what I do. Experimenting and all sorts makes my work very interesting.
What or who inspires you? Where do you find inspiration?
All of my works are experiential. It’s all based on my experience. Darkness is very tangible in my works, relating to my emotions during the first year. But as time passed by, the darkness eventually became my style.
Music and movies inspire me. I can create a good image when I’m happy while more interesting and arresting ones when I’m sad.
#fotografíaSpotlight © MJ Suayan, Fashion and Fine Art Photographer
What is your favorite camera and lens? Could you tell us a bit about the equipment you use?
It’s always NIKON since day 1. For the longest time I’ve been using Nikon D750; Nikon 24-70mm. More than a technical photographer, I’m more of an artistic kind of photographer. I am more particular on the lighting aspect, how I light my subject to create a painting-like images. Photography is all about lighting.
Name an interesting place you’ve ever photographed? Travel destination? Favorite road trip perhaps?
Venice, Italy. It was a cover shoot for Philippine Tatler. It became interesting for me because my assignment was to shoot during the 57th Venice Art Biennale (2017), the biggest art exhibition in the world, imagine seeing all the art works and artists from different parts of the globe. 3 days isn’t enough to go all through those art pieces. It was heaven for me.
#fotografíaSpotlight © MJ Suayan, Fashion and Fine Art Photographer
What music do you like to listen when you edit images? And can you name artists?
I remember when I was completing my pieces for my first solo exhibition last 2016 (THE UNKNOWN IMAGES), I was listening to this one particular song for the span of 6 months non-stop, LANDSLIDE (a Smashing Pumpkins cover). I don’t know of any song where words/lyrics cur deeper than a sharp knife. Right now, I’m enjoying Motown and the 50’s. Andy Williams’ Moon River relaxes me during this lockdown.
What is your dream photo shoot, dream photo assignment?
Dream photo assignment is to work with the brands Alexander McQueen and Iris Van Herpen. I can see my aesthetic and style as a photographer/image maker will compliment well with their style as a designer.
Name atleast 2-3 Filipino photographers you look up to?
Neal Oshima but he is not Filipino . Recently, I admire the works of XYZA CRUZ BACANI. She uses her talent as a photographer to raise awareness on issues on labor migration and human rights. I admire her for that.
#fotografíaSpotlight © MJ Suayan, Fashion and Fine Art Photographer
Do you ever get burned out? If yes, what helps you get back into the creative process?
It’s hard for me to get back into the creative process from a burnt out. The worst was I was stagnant for 5 months doing nothing. What saved me from the creative drought was LONG DRIVING, a 4-5 hours drive going anywhere mostly to nearby provinces. It recharges my mind and washes away all the blockages inside my thoughts.
Non-photography related, any other hobbies you love to do?
It’s weird but I enjoy going to DIY shops or hardware. It’s a hobby because I’m doing it regularly, just to look for things that I can use with my art.
What advice would you give to someone starting out?
Never cease from learning. Read books, magazines, ebooks or just GOOGLE anything about photography and learn! Before you break the rules, know the rules first.
#fotografíaSpotlight © MJ Suayan, Fashion and Fine Art Photographer
Any photography project or discipline would you like to do after the enhanced community quarantine?
Actually I’m preparing now for this special project in collaboration with this international magazine. Once this ECQ is lifted, I will be gathering local collaborators like designers, stylist, etc for this project and discuss my concept.
Any message to fellow creatives during the pandemic?
No matter what situation we are in, we are creatives and we are here to CREATE & INSPIRE! You’ll never know who will be inspired from our works.
#fotografíaSpotlight All images © MJ Suayan and used with permission. To see more of his work, you may visit his website and follow his Instagram.
Thank you also to Artist & Company Manila for the assist.