Austin Seng – Exploring Timeless Design, Rediscovering Creativity, and Capturing Stories Through Photography | Episode #212

At the end of the day, it’s an expression of your own vision. Whether or not people enjoy your work, if you’re loving what you do and you’re happy, that’s what matters. We do this for ourselves, and occasionally, we photographers like to share it with the world.

Austin Seng

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Austin Seng’s story is deeply intertwined with his love for timeless design and storytelling. Starting with an early interest in fashion and architecture, Austin’s passion for creating extended to his discovery of photography—a craft he taught himself through experimentation and reflection. From photographing real estate listings to capturing evocative, nostalgia-driven scenes, Austin has developed a distinctive style that showcases both vintage charm and the breathtaking landscapes of British Columbia.

With a keen eye for detail, Austin brings both aesthetic and emotional depth to his work. His warm tones and cinematic approach impart a sense of history and connection, regardless of if he’s photographing an abandoned structure reclaimed by nature or meticulously curating a set of vintage shots. More than a photographer, Austin is a storyteller, drawing inspiration from his surroundings, his collection of antique cameras, and his lifelong appreciation for art and cinema to create compositions that ultimately feel alive.

Looking ahead, Austin has big plans to expand his artistic endeavors. He envisions a hybrid creative space—a studio that not only offers nostalgic-themed portraiture but also showcases and sells historic objects, film cameras, and even expired film. He’s also exploring the possibilities of videography and is eager to guide other photographers through workshops and tours, sharing his unique insights into capturing the essence of a subject.

Here are three major takeaways from our conversation with Austin Seng:

• Austin reflected on his self-taught photography journey, sharing how his love for fashion, architecture, and design influenced his unique style.
  
• We explored his creative process, including his ability to balance genres like vintage and landscape photography while maintaining a consistent artistic voice.
  
• Austin gave a glimpse into his exciting future plans, from building a hybrid studio and retail space to mentoring other photographers and exploring new mediums like videography.

Speaking with Austin was a reminder of how passion and mindfulness can transform an artistic vision into something extraordinary. Sit back and enjoy this inspiring episode!

Q: What first drew you to photography?

Austin: Funny enough, when I was in high school, I was quite interested in fashion and architecture. I tailored for a little bit, and my introduction to photography actually came from photographing products for the clothing I was making. That’s where I grew an appreciation for it. I started collecting old magazines and fashion books for reference, and architecture also became a heavy theme in my work. After high school, I worked with real estate agents photographing their listings, which was my first step into photography.

Q: Why do you choose vintage subjects for your photography?

Austin: I’m very design-driven, and I love imagining the stories behind objects or locations—what kind of lives they’ve lived, the people who interacted with them, and even imagining myself in that time. I grew up loving old cinema, and that definitely influenced my style. There’s something about timeless design and nostalgia that really resonates with me.

Q: What advice would you give to photographers interested in vintage photography?

Austin: I think it’s important to get in touch with the history of things and places. Visit local museums, heritage sites, or even explore your own backyard. There’s so much to learn and discover. Understanding the stories behind objects or locations can really inspire your work. It’s also about immersing yourself in the era—whether through cinema, music, or design—and letting that influence your creative process.

Key Links and Mentions from the Episode

Connect with Austin:
Instagram

People Mentioned:

1. Paolo Ciccone – Photographer specializing in glamour portrait photography: Instagram.
2. Brett Schauf – Mentioned as an aviation photographer: Website.
3. Edwin Remsberg – Aerial photographer and pilot: Website.

Places and Locations:

1. British Columbia, Canada – Austin’s home and main location for his photography.
2. Vancouver Island, Canada – Where Austin explores and photographs historical and natural sites.
3. Port Hardy, BC – Location of a World War II plane crash site that Austin has photographed.
4. The Interior, BC – A historic gold rush area, one of Austin’s favorite photography locations.
5. Cobalt, Ontario – Mining town mentioned by Perrin, rich with abandoned structures and relics.
6. Paris Catacombs, France – Referenced as an example of underground historical sites.
7. Alaska, USA – Discussed as a dream destination for exploration and photography.
8. Waterford, Ontario – Antique market location referenced by Perrin.

Tools & Gear:

1. Canon 5D Mark IV – Austin’s primary camera: Website.
2. Canon 5D Mark III – Austin’s secondary camera.
3. Graphlex Press Camera (1940s) – Used for nostalgic vintage-style photography.
4. Joya Hoya Protector Filters – Austin’s preferred lens protection: Website.
5. Mavic Mini SE2 Drone – Mentioned by Perrin for drone photography: Website.

Projects & Opportunities:

1. Austin’s Vintage-Themed Photography Studio – A future project that will combine a photography studio with a retail space selling vintage cameras and expired film.
2. Portraiture Expansion – Austin plans to incorporate vintage fashion into his portrait work.
3. YouTube and Videography – Austin’s goal to expand into video storytelling.
4. Workshops & Photo Tours – A potential future opportunity for Austin to teach vintage and landscape photography.

Key Themes Discussed:

1. Vintage Aesthetic in Photography – Austin’s love for nostalgic scenes, vintage objects, and architectural history.
2. Landscape Photography in British Columbia – The influence of BC’s natural beauty on his work.
3. Self-Taught Photography Journey – Learning through trial and error, rather than formal education.
4. Importance of Storytelling – How Austin captures the essence of historical objects and locations.
5. Balancing Digital & Film Photography – Austin’s preference for digital but interest in expanding into film photography.
6. The Role of Editing in Photography – Discussion on how much editing is “too much” and the artistic choices involved.
7. Historical Exploration for Photography – Austin’s approach to researching and photographing abandoned and historic sites.
8. The Connection Between Fashion and Photography – How Austin’s early interest in fashion influences his photography style.
9. The Challenge of Disappearing History – Austin’s urgency to capture places before they are lost to time or redevelopment.
10. Community and Collaboration in Photography – The value of connecting with other photographers and sharing knowledge.