Personal one - emily abay interview
How are you today? I am doing really well, thank you. It is always energising to be surrounded by so many passionate creatives and to share my work in a space like this.
Could you introduce yourself and tell us a little about your journey as a photographer?
I am Emily Abay, and I have been a photographer for over twenty years. I was drawn to fashion and art from a young age, and photography became my way of weaving those worlds together. Since then I have worked on campaigns for Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, and many international brands, while also building my fine art practice.
How would you describe your style or approach to photography?
My style is feminine, sun lit, and emotionally driven. I use natural light and composition to create images that feel intimate, timeless, and editorial.
“ At first I focused on technical perfection. Over time I learned to embrace imperfection
When did you first hear about this exhibition? Through the creative community in Sydney. It has become a touchstone for photographers to gather and share work.
Is this your first time participating, or have you been part of it before?
I have been fortunate to be part of previous editions.
If you have attended in past years, what is your strongest memory of the exhibition?
Walking into the room and seeing such a diverse range of works speaking to each other. The mix of emerging and established voices really stayed with me.
How did it feel to see all the works displayed together on the wall in past editions? It was incredibly moving. Seeing photography outside the digital realm and experienced physically, side by side, is powerful.
What does it mean to you personally to be part of this collective exhibition?
It means a lot. Photography can feel solitary, and this reminds me that our work is part of a much larger dialogue.
What do you hope audiences will take away from experiencing your work here? I hope they feel something, even if it is subtle. I want my images to spark a memory, an emotion, or simply a moment of pause.
“ I want my images to spark a memory, an emotion, or simply a moment of pause
How do you see the photography scene today, especially with younger generations coming through? It is very exciting. Younger generations are fearless, experimental, and are blurring the boundaries between mediums.
Has the exhibition influenced or inspired your perspective on photography in any way? Yes. Every time I participate I leave inspired by the different ways artists interpret the world.
What projects have you been working on recently? I have been working on commercial campaigns, lately I’ve travelled to Vietnam and the Philippines it’s been epic! Working overseas is always so inspiring.
Is there a future project you are particularly excited about and would like to share?
I have a shoot coming up in Johannesburg.. we’re shooting with the wildlife so that will be a fun new challenge!
Looking back, is there a past project you consider a milestone or turning point in your career? A major milestone was my first overseas assignment in Fiji. It showed me how transformative working abroad could be and gave me the drive to pursue more international jobs. That trip sparked my love for combining travel with photography and shaped the direction of my career ever since.
How has your photography evolved from when you first started until today? At first I focused on technical perfection. Over time I learned to embrace imperfection, movement, and light leaks, which often hold the most magic.
What inspires you right now, whether in photography or beyond? Travel and natural landscapes inspire me. My family also inspires me every day and reminds me why I create.
What equipment are you currently using, and why? I use Canon r5 camera and various lenses , but the two lenses I can’t live without are the 24-70 and the 70-200 lenses.
How does your gear shape your process or the kind of results you aim for? It allows me to work intuitively and stay present with my subject and the light rather than thinking too much about settings.
Is there a photographer, work, or experience that has been especially influential in your path?
I really admire the Nicole Bentley, she’s been a huge influence throughout my work for almost 2 decades.. I just discovered her when I was at university 20 years ago… about the same time when Facebook came out! She also showed me that a woman can really do it all and handle it, she’s a beautiful mother as well as being one of my time photographers I’ve ever known. She was proved to me that starting a family didn’t have to mean giving up your passion.
What advice would you give to amateur photographers visiting the exhibition?
Take your time with the work.. really look at appreciate what people have created. Shoot as much as you can, but develop your own voice rather than chasing trends. That is what lasts.
Check Emily's web to discover more of her universe.
