Aik Beng Chia (ABC) | Street Photographer Based In Singapore
“Embrace the journey and stay authentic. Avoid pursuing instant recognition, likes, or followers. Allow your growth to be natural and organic. ”
Widely known as ABC, Aik Beng has gained international recognition for his distinctive style and has published notable works like Tonight the Streets are Ours and SingKarPor. He’s collaborated with major brands such as Apple and Leica, and his photography has been showcased in exhibitions worldwide. Recently, his creative journey has expanded into the world of AI, where he merges digital artistry with his unique vision.
© AikBeng Chia (ABC)
JLH: What initially drew you to the world of photography, and how did you get started on your photographic journey?
ABC: I have always had a passion for photography, particularly for black and white images. My interest in photography was sparked by watching movies and being captivated by the way cinematographers frame each scene like a still photograph. In 2008, I turned to photography as a creative outlet when I faced a creative block in my illustration work.
JLH: Could you describe your preferred style of photography and the subjects or themes that you find most captivating?
ABC: I am inclined towards documentary and street photography. What captures my attention are the spontaneous and unscripted moments that occur in real-time. As William Shakespeare famously said ‘All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players; They have their exits and their entrances, And one man in his time plays many parts.’
JLH: Can you share a memorable experience or story from one of your photography sessions that had a significant impact on you?
ABC: I've documented numerous photo series, but the most challenging was capturing the sudden passing of my father. That experience taught me to photograph every aspect of life, from mundane to beautiful moments. It reminded me to live fully, as you never know what might happen next.
© AikBeng Chia (ABC)
© AikBeng Chia (ABC)
JLH: Can you discuss your philosophy on the relationship between photography and storytelling? How do you convey narratives through your images?
ABC: I believe that photography and storytelling are intrinsically linked. My philosophy is centered around the idea that every photograph has the potential to tell a story, capturing not just a moment in time but also the emotions, context, and significance of that moment.
JLH: What photographers, past or present, have influenced your work? Are there any particular photographers whose styles resonate with you?
ABC: There’s this one Japanese photographer whose style resonates with me. His name is Jun Abe from Osaka. He’s in his late 60s now. I love how he captures the everyday. He’s like the black-and-white version of Alex Webb.
JLH: How do you navigate the ethical considerations of photographing people, especially in candid situations or sensitive contexts?
ABC: I seek consent for street portraits when possible, but not for candid moments. I prioritize cultural sensitivity and respecting local customs and traditions. I also protect my subjects' privacy and anonymity when necessary. My goal is to maintain the authenticity of my images, capturing the essence of their stories without distortion.
JLH: What role does experimentation play in your photographic process? Are there any unconventional techniques you enjoy exploring?
ABC: I'm always exploring new ways to present and share my work on social media platforms like Instagram. This experimentation is vital to my photography, as it stimulates creativity and enables me to push the boundaries of storytelling, constantly evolving my visual language.
JLH: How do you stay inspired and continue to evolve as a photographer? What strategies do you employ to avoid creative burnout?
ABC: Stay curious, that's my approach. No strategies, just following my instincts and going with the flow.
© AikBeng Chia (ABC)
JLH: Could you discuss a project or series of photographs that hold personal significance to you and elaborate on the story behind it?
ABC: I would say, ‘Tonight The Streets Are Ours’ is a documentation of Little India after dusk. Like a restless moth, I was drawn to the dim lights of her dark streets and alleys. I soon found there were others like me, immigrants and Singaporeans alike. Some sought sanctuary, others euphoria. It was a discovery of sorts and a diary of photographs taken with my mobile phone from 2010 to 2012.
JLH: What advice would you offer to aspiring photographers who are just beginning their own photographic journeys?
ABC: Embrace the journey and stay authentic. Avoid pursuing instant recognition, likes, or followers. Allow your growth to be natural and organic.
JLH: Looking forward, what goals or projects do you have in mind for your photography? How do you envision your photographic work evolving in the future?
ABC: I’m currently working on a personal project called ‘SingKarPor Remixed Reality,’ which is a collection of snapshots capturing everyday life in Singapore from 2010 to 2023. It’s a mix of whimsical illustrations and photographs, combined into unique creative blends.
As for the future, I don’t have a clear vision of how my work will evolve. I’m going with the flow, taking things one step at a time, and seeing what unfolds.
© AikBeng Chia (ABC)
© AikBeng Chia (ABC)
JLH: How did you first become interested in AI and its potential for image creation?
ABC: I first became interested in AI and its potential for image creation when I realized the vast possibilities it offers for enhancing and transforming my photographs. The ability to experiment with different styles, textures, and compositions using AI tools sparked my curiosity and inspired me to explore this new frontier in photography.
[To see ABC’s AI work visit his portfolio here]
JLH: What excites you the most about the intersection of AI and image creation, and how do you think it's transforming the creative process?
ABC: What excites me most is the limitless creativity that AI and image creation offer. AI allows me to push the boundaries of traditional photography, enabling me to create unique and innovative images that were previously unimaginable. It’s transforming the creative process by providing new tools and techniques for artists to express their vision in novel ways.
© AikBeng Chia (ABC)
JLH: Can you share your thoughts on the collaborative nature of AI and human creativity in the realm of image generation?
ABC: I see AI and human creativity as complementary forces in image generation. AI provides the tools and capabilities to expand the horizons of what's possible, while human creativity brings emotional depth, context, and artistic vision. Together, they enable a synergistic collaboration that leads to groundbreaking and emotionally engaging images.
JLH: What advice would you give to fellow artists who are curious about integrating AI into their creative practices, specifically for generating images?
ABC: My advice would be to approach AI as a tool to enhance and expand your creative expression, rather than a replacement for your artistic skills. Embrace the learning curve, experiment with different AI technologies, and find ways to integrate AI into your workflow that complement your unique style and vision.
© AikBeng Chia (ABC)
JLH: Can you reflect on the potential cultural and societal impacts of a future where AI-generated art becomes more prevalent?
ABC: As AI-generated art becomes more prevalent, it has the potential to democratize art creation, making it more accessible to a wider audience. However, it also raises questions about originality, authorship, and the value of human creativity. It's important for society to engage in discussions about these issues and to find a balance that respects both technological innovation and artistic integrity.
JLH: How do you envision the future of AI-driven image creation, and what developments do you hope to see in the field in the coming years?
ABC: I envision a future where AI-driven image creation becomes an integral part of the artistic landscape, offering new opportunities for expression and innovation. I hope to see developments that enhance the collaboration between AI and artists, making the technology more intuitive and aligned with the creative process, and ultimately leading to more meaningful and impactful art.
© AikBeng Chia (ABC)
