Portrait 1: Sandra Lai

Some might remember, I did some training in digital photography at Alvin Leong Photography earlier this year.

I was having a conversation with Sandra during one of our meet-ups while I was back in Kuching in July when she brought up the topic of photography and how she’s always wanted to have a photography session. Since her birthday was coming up (at that time), I thought I’d put my skills to good use and at the same time make this her birthday present.

I’ve known Sandra for a while now and we knew each other in one of the most awkward situation ever. We were 13 and from different schools but we play basketball on the same court at a tuition centre near our schools. She approached me and went, “I know you don’t know me and this is weird, but I am in a desperate situation. Can I borrow a dollar because I need water badly and I haven’t got anymore money!” And that is the beginning of our now 9 years of friendship.

Another reason I wanted to do this for her is because I know how much rubbles she has came out of to get to where she is right now. From a very naive girl, she has grown to a girl whose open to opinions, ideas and new things and she never stop learning. We’ve had so many deep conversations and after each conversation, her motivation and spirit to change never fail to leave me mellowed. And also, on a lot of occasions, I know that she has said and done things that were true and sincere, but has often been misunderstood, like the tears she shed when we made her a surprise birthday party. For all these good reasons, I cannot think of another reason not to do this for this very special young lady.

She wanted to do it at the beach, and when I went to pick her up, the lighting at her house was too good to resist. :) She has a house where the light reflect from the outside right into her living room.

Her very proud mother was also there to make sure that all is well with her golden girl - afterall, she’s her only daughter.

The sun was very happy that day, even though it rained that morning.

It started off quite dull and boring - understandably, we were both very nervous. Then we went into the shade and I don’t remember how the conversation went and things took off from there.

Sandra, thanks for the opportunity and it was an honour. :) And special thanks to Eldon who was there with me to help, whether directly or indirectly! Haha. It was a pleasure and I had a good time!!

More pictures from the shoot will be uploaded on my Facebook.

All comments and criticisms would make me very happy! :)

The plug: Alvin Leong is starting the Alvin Leong Academy of Photography in Kuching! If you’re interested in digital photography, like me, bring your photography skill to a whole new level! I’m a pretty good example - from a n00b in photography and photoshop, and now I know all the basics! Check out the info here.

Popularity: 22% [?]