Already a street photography enthusiast, a job as a nanny in London led KIM BACON to a new focus on family photoshoots. Today, she takes pictures of mums-to-be, newborns, toddlers and teens, and also has loads of experience putting together a fab photography session in her family portrait studio in Hong Kong or out and about in the city.
Where are you from originally, and what brought you to Hong Kong?
I grew up in Northamptonshire in the UK, moving to London and the bright lights when I turned 18. In my early 20s, I travelled in Asia and Australia for two years, turning up in Hong Kong with a backpack aged 25. I fell in love with this city, which I’ve called home for over 25 years.
What inspired you to embark on a career in photography?
My Grandparents bought me a small camera when I was 11, and I was always snapping away with it. In London, I became fascinated with street photography, and after receiving my first SLR camera on my 21st birthday, I roamed the streets capturing black-and-white images.
Working as a professional nanny for many years, I naturally began to photograph the children around me. I found I was very good at it and enjoyed capturing their individual personalities, which is where my love of photographing children and families was born.
Do you create the family photoshoot in a studio or outdoor locations in Hong Kong?
Being a natural light photographer, I photograph in clients’ homes or on location in HK. I love a photography session at the beach and park – or, for the real Hong Kong feel, we wander backstreets, using shop shutters, graffiti, banyan trees and signs as backdrops.
What equipment do you use during a photography session?
I’m a huge Canon fan and have been for over 30 years. I keep equipment and props to a minimum during shoots to give us more freedom – unless, of course, it’s a newborn session, when backdrops, furs and props are bought along. I often say that the smaller the model, the more stuff I need to carry!
What does a family photoshoot look like?
My sessions are relaxed – whether it’s a family photoshoot on a beach and paddling in the sea, maternity photoshoot in a park, a newborn session at a client’s home or a couple wandering through an urban setting, I aim to make everyone feel comfortable. Laughter is encouraged and I’m pleased when clients say they enjoyed a session. I take a mixture of both posed and candid images during sessions, so there’s something for everyone.
How would you describe your photography style?
I’d say very natural. I need people in all my photographs – I love capturing humans and the life they bring to an image. Even if I’m photographing a stunning landscape, I’d prefer a person to wander down the path or cross the field to add the human element. Street photography remains a strong influence – I love the power of black-and-white imagery, and provide clients with a B&W version of each photograph in their gallery.
What’s the most photogenic place you’ve travelled to?
Myanmar, without a doubt. Bagan, Yangon and Mandalay (especially the U Bein Bridge) are wonderful places to visit, with so much life and culture. My very favourite, though, was Inle Lake, with farms, homes and businesses all floating on the water. The amazing scenery and incredible reflections on the lake kept me and my camera very busy indeed.
Where do you live and what do you like about it?
I live on Lamma Island and love the community there. It’s a great place to live; I can step outside my door and be walking in the hills within a few minutes. We also don’t have chain restaurants and supermarkets; instead, we can support small local businesses, whether buying vegetables from a stall or eating in one of the many great restaurants. Being a small business myself, I do my best to seek out and support others whenever I can.
What are some of your favourite things in Hong Kong at the moment?
I’m trying to get around and view this year’s HKwalls Street Art Festival. This event has grown over the years, with many talented graffiti artists from around the world featured; these pieces of art have provided me with many amazing backdrops over the years.
I recently discovered TMK Rap & Rolls in Wan Chai – great Japanese food in a quirky setting inspired by 80s rap music. I particularly liked the wall full of 80’s boom boxes! Now I want to check out their sister restaurant, Funk & Rolls. What are you looking forward to for the second half of 2024? Once the intense heat of the summer is over, it’s a great time to get out on hikes and explore other parts of Hong Kong. I’m looking forward to Clockenflap in November too; it’s always a fabulous weekend and a chance for the city to let its hair downn.
To have a look at a sample photography session, visit Kim’s website. You can also find pictures from her most recent family photoshoot on Instagram at @kimbaconphotography and facebook.com/kimbaconphotography.
This article about family photoshoots and photography sessions at a family portrait studio in Hong Kong first appeared in the Summer 2023 issue of Expat Living magazine. Subscribe now so you never miss an issue!
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