Ryan Li Photography

Light, Colour, Passion

Of interest

Muslim student reading book on Damascus

As a commercial photographer, I don’t usually have the problem of finding interesting subjects – if someone is paying me to photograph something, then by definition I already have an interested audience.

What is a challenge to every professional photographer is that the subject does not always present itself in visually interesting circumstances. A true professional adds value to the image; he or she captures the subject at its most aesthetically striking, in a way that enhances the message communicated by the image.

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Nida & Alexander, 16.7.2010

Nida & Alexander on high chairs

Don’t we all enjoy stories? I certainly have many fond memories as a child, on those sleepless excitable nights, of my father reading bedtime stories to me. Each and every couple I encounter bring a unique tale: who they are, how they met, what future they will have together. As a wedding photographer, it is my greatest passion to glimpse into every love story from a privileged vantage point, and recount the tale using light and shadow. The story of Nida and Alexander is one of cross-channel, cross-cultural love.

Nida is a Pakistani living in Britain; Alexander is Dutch, residing in the Netherlands. On the surface, the cultural differences appear vast. Yet, the chemistry between Nida and Alexander in front of the camera proves that love surmounts all differences. They were playful, they enjoyed each other’s presence, they worked as a team at every step. Their expressions sparked off each other, and they were just brilliant to be photographed together. More photos to come soon.

East London Line launch party

DrummerThe mercury soared to 28 degrees last Sunday, and what perfect timing to party, especially on an air-conditioned train. Thanks to my good friend and budding journalist Emily Jupp, who organised this fantastic day of poetry, music and dance performances, in celebration of the launch of the East London Line overground service. If only the daily commute could be this much fun!
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Presenting Stunnz

Presenting Stunnz: the revolutionary online fashion store, showcasing limited edition designs from the hottest fresh talents.

Urban glamour

Another fantastic shoot with the Stunnz team. The long-awaited sun finally came on Sunday. The gritty scenes of Hackney Wick really came alive in the gorgeous low-angle light. It was the perfect setting to bring out the urban glamour look (T-shirt, jeans and heels) we were trying to achieve. Special thanks to Rosie for lighting assistance and creative direction, and our models Kelby, Hadia and Katie! Check out these behind-the-scenes shots taking advantage of the wonderful light.

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Foray into fashion

I am very excited to tell you about a fashion assignment I have been working on with Jonathan le Roux, an award-winning cinematographer. Our first shoot at Studio Minot yesterday was a resounding success, despite all the sweats everyone learned and enjoyed a lot. Watch this space for the photos! Read the rest of this entry »

Wedding photography: frequently asked questions

Lakmini & Tshaka: CeremonyBrides and grooms-to-be are busy people, speaking from personal experience! To help you find out more about our wedding photography services at a glance, we have now uploaded a list of your most common queries. If you have any burning questions that are missing from the FAQ, please do drop us a line!

Airside

Sunset at Barajas International Airport, Madrid, Spain

I love being at the airport after a hard day’s work, having cleared a backlog of tasks. I feel refreshed, vibrant, excited at the prospect of a new adventure, to live a different life even just for two weeks. I feel confident, in the zone, as if this is really where I belong. I smile a lot, and greet enthusiastically the duty free shop cashier, the airline staff, any stranger who happens to cross my path. Strange as it may sound, there is a certain happiness emanating from within. Read the rest of this entry »

PRC 60th Anniversary Charity Walk

IMG_9474Last Sunday, 14,000 people took to the streets of Hong Kong Island on a charity walk, in celebration of the 60th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China, and to raise HK$10 million for the Community Chest. My fiancĂ©e suggested this would be a healthy exercise on a Sunday morning, so I gladly went along, with photographic intentions of course. Read the rest of this entry »

The Children of Laos

My recent entry to the Travel Photographer of the Year Competition. I have chosen several images from my 2007 trip to Laos, surely an apt definition for the words “laid back” if ever I saw one.

Families at the Pha That Luang (Full Moon) Festival night market. Vientiane, Laos

Families at the Pha That Luang (Full Moon) Festival night market. Vientiane, Laos


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