“My portfolio is just a representation of my side of the photographic life” - Fad Manaf
There are just so many photographers around nowadays but a few really stand out from the rest, and one of them is none other than Fad Manaf. If you’re familiar with the local independent music & art scene, you’ve probably seen him going around snapping photos at local gigs and photographing local independent acts. Not only that, Fad is fast becoming a favourite for wedding photography too. We’ve seen his photos (and totally dig them), we like his down-to-earth personality and now it’s your turn to click the ‘like’ button on this guy!
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I was born in Kuala Lumpur and grew up in Ampang with my dearest family. I studied Computer Science at a local college. I am now based in Ampang.
What was your ambition when you were younger? And why?
When I was in school, just like other kids, I wanted to become either an architect, doctor, laywer…somthing like that. But I think I’ve always had an interest in photography 
How did you get into photography? Tell us your story.
Haha…I have no idea. I just like taking photos.
I started taking photos since I was 10 years old, using my dad’s film camera. I have been shooting for family gatherings, family portraits, Hari Raya gatherings and many more…just for fun.
A few years later, I bought a cheap point and shoot camera, it was the Sony Cybershot T-10. Before getting my own DSLR camera, I borrowed one from a friend and hung out with a bunch of talented photographers and we all remain good friends until today. My 1st DSLR was a second hand D70 and later in 2008, I bought another one, a D50 from my girlfriend
I started out in 2006 without any knowledge in photography at all. I just kept on learning on my own.
I remember going to a gig in KL with some friends, and I brought along my camera with me to photograph the show. That actually got me started in music photography. I’ve been taking photos for the band Hujan ever since. In 2008, I went on tour with Hujan for their UK tour, and with COUPLE, also for their UK tour early this year.
Some of my works include photography for Hujan’s 2nd EP and 2nd album cover.
Throughout my career as a freelance photographer, my photography works have been featured in countless magazines, newspapers and websites.
What is your photography style? Your signature shots?
In music, I shoot a lot of music performances. A lot of my favourite shots are the in-between moments on stage thus I always try to capture every single movement. I like the blur-movement in photographs.
My favorite photographers are Anton Corbijn, Angela Boatwright, Karen McBright, Max Wanger and homegrown talent, Taufiqshariff.
Who have you worked with so far and who do you think is your best client? Please share your experience with us.
So far I’ve worked with Hujan for their album covers, tours (local and overseas – United Kingdom and Singapore) and commercial projects, Bunkface for their album cover and Couple for their UK tour. Unofficially, I’ve taken photos of local and international artists like Yuna, Liyana Fizi, Lenka, Komplot, Flaza, Amylia, Jayzuan, Couple, Meet Uncle Hussein, All American Rejects, Kasabian (MTV World Stage) and lots more.
My best client? This is a hard one to answer. There are so many that I want to mention but for sure, I must say it’s HUJAN because they have given me a lot of experience in this area since 2007 and besides that, they’re all my friends :p I really have a lot of fun with them.
What is the most rewarding thing about being a photographer?
Being appreciated by the people around me…that really means a lot to me.
Tell us about your own photography business.
Currently, I run my own photography company – Stillimages . It’s a home-based studio in Ampang. I accept all sorts of assignments from music shootout to portraits and design works to weddings.
What do you think of photography being a popular trend among youths today?
Photography is expanding rapidly now, and everyone can afford to buy a DSLR. This is a positive trend, I think. Kids don’t just hang out on the streets doing nothing…at the same time they’re taking photos too. They can actually get serious into it if the photos are really good.
What is your dream project?
Dream project? I bet everyone has one…and mine is to go traveling around the world, taking photographs of people, beautiful places, streets and cultures. I also want to exhibit my work outside my country – if someone wants to fund my dream project, please please call me!
What can we expect from Fad Manaf Photography this year?
At the moment I really want to expand my knowledge and improve my skills in photography.
I want to be the best! Who knows what’s in store for me in the future….?
Here are some sneak peeks of Fad’s work so far….more photos at www.fadmanaf.com and http://www.flickr.com/photos/photoplayfad
bunkface
London
Wedding
*all photos are taken by Fad Manaf @ stillimages
