Wilfred “Weegee” Lim (born 1988) is a photographer from Malaysia currently living in Singapore.
He studied photography at “School of Art, Design & Media” (Nanyang Technological University).
In another interview on this site, Wilfred Lim talks about the ambiguous side of his photography.
Artist statement
Wilfred utilizes photographic medium as a painting tool to convey his ideas, often presenting his vision and criticism through dream-like imagery.
Interview with Wilfred Lim
Wilfred, why did you become a photographer? And what does photography mean to you?
“I usually visualize my ideas with sketches first, and then use a camera to ‘paint’ my vision.”
I have been interested in painting and drawing since I was young. I am also interested in portraying reality; photography hence became the best medium for my practice.
I see photography as an artistic medium, and camera as a painting tool. I will usually visualize my ideas with sketches first, and then use a camera to “paint” my vision.
A photographer has many “tools” at hand to bring across his message: lenses, lighting, framing, color treatment etc. Can you elaborate a little bit on the techniques you used for this particular project in order to link form and content?
I use 50mm lens primarily for the entire series, and a 35mm when there is space constraint. I tried to avoid any lens distortion across all my series because I really adore the aesthetic of classical paintings.
I put in meanings in the composition, props, and color as well. I like to make use of all the elements in the photographs to tell stories.
All of the details in my photographs carry underlying messages, be it personal or political.
In other words: How would you describe your photographic language and creative process?
My works are surrealistic visual translation of my dreams. Photography is a platform where I can realize things that I cannot do in real life, such as expressing my criticism on political issues in contemporary Malaysia.
Which photographer has inspired you most? In what way?
If I were to pin point one photographer, I would say Chien-Yang Wang from Taiwan.
I went to Taiwan a month before my first semester in university and I saw his book on shelve.
I was very interested in his vision and ideology.
He was the first photographer who inspires me before I embark on my photography journey.
What’s your favorite inspirational quote about photography?
“Follow your heart”.
It was from a visitor who came to visit my exhibition.
What kind of camera and equipment do you use?
Nikon D700, 35&50mm lens.
Canon 5D Mark III, 35mm lens.
Mamiya 7II, Kodak Portra 120.
Nikon FM3, various 35mm films.
What’s your favorite website about photography?
Trendland.com covers interesting arrays of photography and other visual works.
