Today we’d like to introduce you to Grace Yoon.
Hi Grace, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My photography journey began in 2017 at Orange Coast College, where I had enrolled in my first photography class. Photography has been of interest to me, so it was natural to continue taking courses within the department. Each semester pushed me to learn and grow in unforeseen ways. I graduated from The School of Photography at Orange
Coast College in the spring of 2020. My experience has been life-changing, and I am excited to continue the journey.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My decision to shift careers has been very challenging and extremely rewarding. Completing my degree during a global pandemic had its own hurdles. It was often difficult to balance my personal growth and personal life while working full-time and attending school. I now have a renewed sense of direction and a drive that constantly pushes me beyond my comfort zone, resulting in growth, intent, and rediscovery of purpose.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My focus is heavy on documentary, art, and photojournalism. My work tends to move between the three genres. Applying creative concepts to photography is a strength of mine. My previous work experience includes assisting and designing costumes for various shows. That experience has allowed me to merge my wardrobe and photography
knowledge on shoots. I currently work in Orange County and the Los Angeles area and plan to soon expand beyond the Southern California area.
The images included are:
- Two chemigrams from a series of experimental images I had created in the darkroom.
- An image from “Transitions,” an ongoing personal project. A photo taken on 35mm film in Death Valley, Ca.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
There are always risks when attempting a new endeavor, but I would not do it any differently. Growth can feel uncomfortable, the uncertainty can be unsettling, but it has been worthwhile. I am extremely fortunate to be surrounded by a great support system of family, friends, colleagues, and mentors who celebrate the wins and support me during the bumps.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: GraceYoonPhotography.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graceyoonphotography/
Image Credits
Photographer for my portrait: Fernando Lopez
