Ask the Collective: André Yeo on His Coffee-Fueled Photography Process

André Yeo (@grainsfordays) is a Singapore-based photographer who transforms everyday observations into perceptive and impactful portraiture. He got into photography two years ago and has been hooked ever since.

What made you start taking pictures?

Two years ago, I joined a couple of friends out for a shoot and was introduced to the humble camera. The idea of photography capturing moments, emotions and life in all its glory wasn’t new, but it simply hadn’t occur to me until I started messing around with it. A couple of snaps later, I knew I was hooked.

These are three of our favorite photos out of the ones you have uploaded. Is there a story behind them you could share?

Lately, I’ve been experimenting with portraying emotions via human forms and shadows. Safe to say, this one worked out pretty well.

“Lines and patterns evoke a certain feeling within me.”

Lines, spaces and patterns evoke a certain feeling within me. They almost seem to beg me to have their pictures taken.

This is a picture of my partner, Geraldine. Apart from being my partner in crime, model and go-to critic, she makes scrambled eggs that are to die for.

“Film has a feel and aesthetic that cannot be replicated by digital means.”

Film or Digital?

Film. Definitely film. There’s a certain feel and aesthetic to it that cannot be replicated by digital means. Yes, digital is more practical and my head agrees, but my heart says film.

Where’s home (however you understand the notion)?

Home is where the heart is. And the heart is wherever I’ll travel to next.

“Post-production is not as critical as the capture of the moment itself.”

How important is post-production to you?

Post is not as critical as the capture of the moment itself. Usually I would make slight adjustments to the image, unless there’s a certain look or feel that I’m trying to portray.

Have you sold any of your photos on EyeEm Market yet?

Premium

Of the ones that I sold, this is still one of my favorites.

What’s your dearest photography ritual?

Mental visualization and a good cup of coffee is key part of my preproduction process. It helps me be prepared for scenarios that might surface during the course of the shoot. So far, it hasn’t let me down.

“A good cup of coffee is a key part of my process.”

Who is your favorite user on EyeEm?

That’s @Aronshakeri.

If you could have a coffee with a famous photographer who would it be?

Ben Zank or Weronika Izdebska.

Do you have any unrealized photo dreams? Or projects you are currently working on?

My dreams are to travel, for as much as I can, as far as I can, and as long as I can.