Today we’d like to introduce you to Lei Xing.
Hi Lei, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m a creative developer from Paris, France. Life’s full of surprises, right? Back in the day, if you told me I’d be knee-deep in coding, I’d probably raise an eyebrow. But one thing’s been a constant – my love for visuals that tell a story.
College shook things up when coding entered the scene. Unexpected? Absolutely. But within coding, I stumbled upon creative coding – where lines of code become art. The blend of tech and imagination just clicked for me.
I had a great run at AKQA Paris, four years of diving into mind-bending projects with a crew of innovators. It was a blast. Now, I’m freelancing, and the freedom to chase new creative adventures is exhilarating.
When I’m not coding, I’m exploring a little bit of photography, artistic direction, and even giving modeling a shot. Funny how these interests play off each other, right?
This journey of mine is all about weaving creativity and tech. From curious kid to AKQA team member, and now carving my path freelancing, each phase adds depth to my story. Exciting? You bet. I’m stoked to see where this ride takes me, discovering new layers of creativity along the way.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Certainly, my journey as a creative developer has seen its fair share of challenges. One of the most significant struggles I’ve encountered revolves around finding the right balance between passion and practicality within each project.
Early on, my enthusiasm drove me to pour an immense amount of time and effort into every project, often exceeding the original scope. However, this approach clashed with the reality of client budgets and practicality. It became clear that finding the sweet spot between delivering exceptional work and maintaining a viable business was crucial.
Learning to set realistic limits on project scope, time investment, and polishing was a pivotal lesson. While the desire to excel is natural, it’s vital to respect both the client’s needs and my own work-life balance. This realization has reshaped my approach, enabling me to deliver outstanding results while keeping profitability and well-being in mind.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
To put in a nutshell, I code visual stuff. A creative developer seamlessly fuses technology and artistry, crafting immersive digital experiences that captivate, innovate, and push boundaries.
This role encompasses a wide spectrum of skills, spanning UI animations, 3D experiences, and even delving into video game creation using technologies like WebGL and Unity 3D. While I’ve recently focused on website development, my portfolio extends to physical interactive installations AR, and VR experiences.
Adaptability is the cornerstone here. It’s about seamlessly transitioning from crafting smooth user interfaces to orchestrating mind-bending 3D experiences. Staying ahead of emerging technologies keeps the work cutting-edge and exciting.
My work has been recognized by industry heavyweights like Awwwards, FWA, and D&AD, highlighting the dedication poured into each project. Being twice nominated in the Independent of the Year category at Awwwards annuals was also a great honor for me.
Beyond creation, I contribute as a jury member for Awwwards, evaluating the work of peers and fostering a community of growth.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Your passion is your fuel, but remember to establish boundaries that protect your well-being and prevent burnout. Balance is key. Reach out to established professionals in the field – they’re often more than willing to share their insights and experiences. Let curiosity be your driving force, and never hesitate to ask questions and seek knowledge.
Learning from those who have walked the same path can be incredibly valuable. Their guidance can save you from pitfalls and provide insights that could otherwise take years to acquire.
Don’t shy away from exploring beyond your comfort zone. Embrace new ideas, technologies, and creative avenues. Innovation thrives on curiosity and experimentation.
Finally, as you progress, take the time to celebrate both small and big achievements. Growth is a journey of continuous improvement, and recognizing your progress fuels your motivation.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.leixing.fr
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leixng/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lei-xing-34ba86a8/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/leixng
Image Credits
Personal photo credit: @los.bledos
