From an Old iPhone to a Full-Fledged Media Agency
At just 12 years old, Mervin Hong picked up his first “camera”—an old iPhone—and found himself captivated by the power of photography.
“I realised I could take photos that evoke emotions,” he recalls.
Now a photographer and videographer based in Singapore, Mervin runs his own media agency, producing content and filming for clients, blending his early curiosity with a professional drive.
Through the years, Mervin’s style has developed from spontaneous snapshots to thoughtfully crafted images. He got his first real camera in 2020, and soon after, began building his portfolio and sharing his work on social media.
By 2023, he was freelancing for clients and participating in Tamron’s photo competitions—a meaningful step that he describes as “a huge boost in confidence.”
Crafting Stories Through the Lens
“A picture tells a thousand words,” he notes.
To achieve this, Mervin often uses techniques like the rule of thirds, symmetry, and patterns, which give his work a structured, intentional look while still allowing space for expression.
Though he relies on these techniques, Mervin also embraces experimentation. Exploring different styles, he finds, opens up new ways to convey emotions, making his work both versatile and engaging.
Mervin sees each photograph as an opportunity to communicate a story.
For Mervin, the art of photography lies in the balance between technique and intuition—crafting visuals that not only look good but also feel meaningful.
Building His Toolkit with Tamron Lenses
For Mervin, choosing the right equipment is essential, and Tamron lenses have become a staple in his creative toolkit.
He currently uses the Tamron 17-70mm f/2.8 and 11-20mm f/2.8 lenses, which he appreciates for their versatility and sharpness.
“The 17-70mm f/2.8 is a fantastic all-rounder.”
“It lets me capture everything from close-ups to wide shots without having to change lenses,” Mervin says.
Beyond functionality, Mervin values the quality and durability of Tamron lenses, noting how they’ve been reliable partners in his growth as a photographer.
“Tamron’s lenses offer great performance at an affordable price,” he adds,
Finding Inspiration in the Everyday
Mervin draws inspiration from a variety of sources, often finding ideas in everyday life, music, literature, and nature. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest also play a role, helping him stay connected with trends and see the work of fellow photographers.
“I enjoy seeing local photographers like YK, QHventures, and Walter Tan,” he shares.
When working with musicians, for instance, Mervin immerses himself in their music before a shoot.
“I listen to the songs and plan how the vibe of the photo should turn out,” he explains.
For Mervin, photography isn’t just about the technicalities; it’s about capturing a mood or emotion, often guided by inspiration from the world around him.
Memorable Moments Behind the Camera
Among Mervin’s many shoots, some experiences stand out for their impact and connection. One particularly meaningful project was a neighbourhood event where he photographed elderly residents enjoying games and socialising.
“Seeing them have fun and being able to capture those moments was special,” Mervin reflects.
Talking with them while shooting provided a fresh perspective, reminding him of the power of photography to connect people across generations.
Another memorable milestone was his success in Tamron’s photo competitions. Winning these competitions marked a turning point for him, transitioning from a hobbyist to a recognised photographer.
“Participating in these contests and even winning a few made me realise that this could be more than just a passion,” he says.
These experiences, both big and small, have helped shape Mervin’s path and remind him why he started in the first place.
Overcoming Challenges and Staying Inspired
Like many creatives, Mervin faces challenges in balancing his passion with other commitments, especially as both a student and a working photographer. Finding time to shoot and consistently post content can be difficult.
To keep himself inspired, Mervin explores new locations, engages with other creatives, and learns new techniques.
“Connecting with others and constantly learning helps me stay motivated,” he says.
Creative blocks are another hurdle, but Mervin treats these moments as opportunities for growth. When a shoot doesn’t go as planned, he reflects on what he could improve, seeing each setback as a lesson.
“I’ve learned to be patient and persistent,” he notes, emphasising the importance of resilience in the creative process.
By keeping a clear schedule and setting aside time for personal projects, Mervin manages to balance his client work with his own creative exploration, making room for growth and self-discovery.
Engaging with the Photography Community
For Mervin, connecting with the wider photography community—both online and offline—is essential. He actively participates in social media groups and networks with other photographers, finding support, inspiration, and constructive feedback through these interactions.
“Community and collaboration play a big role,” Mervin says, highlighting how working alongside others introduces him to new ideas and different ways of seeing things.
He believes that engaging with the community brings fresh perspectives and can be a source of continuous learning, which fuels his growth and keeps his creativity evolving.
Connect with Mervin on IG.
Advice for Aspiring Photographers
Mervin has a straightforward piece of advice for those starting out in photography: practice consistently and don’t shy away from trying new techniques.
“Shoot what you love and let your passion guide you,” he advises.
Mervin also stresses the importance of learning the basics—composition, lighting, and editing—which form the foundation for strong images.
For newcomers, he recommends using online platforms like YouTube and Instagram to learn and find inspiration.
“There are plenty of professionals sharing tutorials that are really helpful,” he notes, adding that joining photography groups and communities can provide support and motivation.
Reflecting on his own experience, he wishes he had started collaborating with other photographers sooner, recognising the value of shared knowledge and collective growth in the creative journey.
Future Aspirations and Evolving Perspectives
Looking ahead, Mervin has clear goals for his growth as a photographer. In the short term, he aims to expand his media agency, taking on a wider range of projects to diversify his experience.
Long-term, he hopes to use his work to tell impactful stories, focusing on underrepresented communities and highlighting social issues.
“I want my photos to be a voice for people who might not be heard,” Mervin shares, expressing his vision of creating meaningful and socially aware art.
As he continues to develop his style, Mervin sees his work evolving toward documentary and fine art photography, with an emphasis on storytelling. He’s excited about the potential to deepen his focus on storytelling through visuals, aspiring to make a positive impact through his art.