Today we’d like to introduce you to Chir Yan Lim.
Hi Chir Yan, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Exposure begets experience; I was fortunate to have the chance to play with a camera around the age of 10, an event that would profoundly shape my journey. Captivated by the enchanting world, I could craft through its lens, I fell headlong into a love affair with the art of image creation. As high school drew to a close, a pivotal question loomed over me: the decision of which academic path to tread in college. My heart resounded with the echoes of my artistic childhood pursuits, and so it was that I gravitated toward the realm of art. In this pursuit, I landed upon the discipline of filmmaking, even as the inner workings of the movie industry remained largely unfamiliar to me. In truth, I yearned to master the art of both “moving images” and still photography, a conviction that led me to choose this uncharted course. Armed with little industry insight, I knew the only way that I could learn about the art is to be in it…
My odyssey commenced within the lighting department, where I assumed various roles, such as grip, electrician, and gaffer. It was in this context that I found myself drawn to the camera department—a fascination that would soon blossom into a deep-rooted love affair. Step by step, I worked my way up from 2nd assistant camera to 1st assistant camera, then camera operator. However, as the curtain fell on my academic journey, an industry-wide Hollywood strike ushered in a period of contemplation. Within this juncture, I seized the opportunity to recalibrate my trajectory back toward the realm of still photography—a domain that awakened my dormant passion. This voyage to the present has woven a tapestry of experiences and lessons that have indelibly shaped the tapestry of my identity. Each chapter has contributed to the canvas of who I am today, and I eagerly embrace the unknown chapters that await me in the tapestry of tomorrow.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey has been far from smooth, yet it introduced me to a multitude of kind-hearted souls and supportive friends who lightened the path and made it navigable. Among the struggles I encountered, one that I believe many females face is the weight of gender stereotypes, especially in male-dominated fields. Although progress is being made, remnants of these stereotypes still linger. Nevertheless, I’ve embraced the practice of disregarding others’ perceptions and focusing on my contributions, allowing my work to be its own advocate. Moreover, the enigmatic nature of the film industry presents a formidable challenge in itself. There’s no established blueprint for achieving success in this domain, often making it feel like I’m wandering in an intricate labyrinth. Yet, my continued presence within the creative realm owes itself to my trust in the process that sustains me.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a photographer with a specialization in fashion and portrait photography. What truly fills me with pride is my consistent commitment to honing my creative craft, engaging with it every single day. I think what sets me distinctly apart is my authenticity—I remain true to myself, embracing life’s experiences and channeling them through the artistic expression of my journey.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
I believe that when one is eager to enter a field and truly understand the intricacies of the craft, they ought to immerse themselves completely. It’s about not hesitating to step into the depths and even dancing, leaping, and sprinting through the challenges. To truly excel, wholehearted engagement with a skill is key. Reflecting on my own journey, I wish I had avoided confining my options in the earlier stages of my career. I yearn for the opportunity to have explored a wider range of skills and giving my best without being swayed by the discouraging voices that insisted “I can’t.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.chiryanlim.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/chiryanlim
Image Credits
Yai Ariza, Abigail Marie Perez, Justin Corbo, Louisa Songco
