A photograph is the symbol of memories kept and preserved for a long period of time. 

So says Asomua Saili, a 28-year-old from Papauta whose passion as a photographer is quite contagious. 

He is representing Vanu Studios in the 2019 Le Independent Fashion Expo Convention (Life Con) Pacific.

He told Samoa Observer the reason he wanted to participate in this year’s fashion event was for the experience and to try something different.

“I am a self-taught photographer so basically my cousin and I in New Zealand began our journey by going on adventures like hiking, going to the beaches, and exploring Samoa while taking photos through our phones.

“We had the same passion and so in our pursuit of photography skills we learnt everything on Google and YouTube."

Mr. Saili said he instantly fell in love with capturing various moments and places by using a camera.

“I love taking photos because I believe that photos are forever meaningful, and they can be kept as memories for many years, even when we leave this earth, our photos will be here and that is how people will remember us." 

In September  2018, Mr. Saili started their photography business  - Vanu Studios - with his cousin from New Zealand

“Our clients were mostly weddings and for this year we have been booked for so many. 

“As a photographer my belief is that the way to take a good photo is to have the right lighting - good lighting will produce a good photo - we also have video recording services.

“A challenge in my line of work is time management, I have to budget my time wisely because we can take a photo in a second or so but the majority of the time is used in editing the photos which is hard." 

Mr. Saili advised those who have the same passion in photography not to be afraid to pursue it.

“Do not limit yourself to your fears, have the courage to come out of your shell - if there is passion you can make it work and remember there are always challenges and difficulties in life so do not give up when the road is hard.”

Life Con is a platform where designers, hair and make-up artists, models, photographers is able to present their services in a fashion event organized by Events, Marketing and Districbution (EMD) and Emerging Artists (EA).