Photographer: Aileen Mae Sze

1. What significant life experiences or events have influenced and shaped your artistic vision?

I’ve always been fascinated by the dance of light and shadow. Whether it’s the way the sun casts intricate patterns or how a random beam of light can create a striking contrast, I find endless inspiration in these moments. Growing up in the tropics, I was surrounded by warmth—both in the environment and in the people around me. This love for warm tones is a constant in my work and is a direct reflection of who I am. I thrive on positivity, joy, and enthusiasm, and I try to infuse every image I create with that same energy. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the warmth that I hold dear, is what truly defines my artistic vision.

2. Collaboration often sparks fresh creativity. Can you share an example of a collaboration that led to an unexpected and exciting artistic outcome?

I usually kick off a project with a simple idea—perhaps an object, a color, or even just a random word—and I share this spark with other creatives who are eager to collaborate. From there, we begin an organic discussion, building on that initial idea piece by piece. Often, the most exciting developments happen on the day of the shoot itself, as we continue to experiment, refine, and let inspiration take the lead. I absolutely thrive in those unexpected moments when the team has full creative freedom, and everyone feels free to express their vision. I love being resourceful and experimenting, often transforming what we already have into something even more beautiful. The photoshoots I share on my Instagram are perfect examples of this spontaneous creativity, often exceeding my wildest expectations.

3. Walk us through a specific project that challenged your creative boundaries. How did you approach it, and what did you learn from the experience?

Moving to Vancouver brought a unique set of challenges, particularly with its ever-changing, often cloudy, and rainy weather. I was accustomed to the consistent warm light of the tropics, so I had to adapt quickly. This experience pushed me to master the art of creating and controlling my own light. No longer waiting for the sun to cooperate, I embraced the opportunity to explore artificial lighting and how to manipulate it to achieve the desired effects. Interestingly, I’ve also delved into creating more contrast in my photos, reflecting Vancouver’s timeless, monochromatic vibe while still weaving in the warmth and vibrancy of my tropical roots. Though I’m still refining this blend of styles, I’m excited to see how this fusion continues to evolve.

4. In the ever-evolving art world, what do you believe sets your work apart and makes it unique or groundbreaking?

My photography style is all about celebrating color, warmth, and the subtle magic that light and shadows bring to life. I’m captivated by how a simple shift in lighting can transform the entire mood of a photo, making it feel alive and full of energy. Growing up in the tropics, warm tones have naturally become the heart of my work, infusing every image with joy and positivity. I believe in capturing the beauty right in- camera, preferring minimal editing so that what you see in my photos is a true reflection of what I saw through the lens. I’m always exploring and refining my artistic vision, focusing on those small, impactful details that make each image unique.

5. As you reflect on your journey, are there any specific goals or milestones you've set for your artistic career in the coming years?

One of my biggest dreams is to open my own studio—a space where creativity knows no bounds, and where I can explore my artistic vision fully. This studio would be my creative haven, a place where I can bring any idea to life. Alongside that, I’ve always harbored a deep passion for pet photography. When I was growing up, I dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, but life took me on a different path. However, my love for animals never waned, and I would cherish the opportunity to capture their unique personalities through photography.