What do you photograph and why?
"I photograph people who I believe are beautiful inside and out — individuals who have real personalities and a depth to them beyond their outer appearance. Working with someone I actually admire as a human being is what ultimately satisfies me and makes me enjoy what I do."

What inspires you?
"When it comes to aesthetics, I find the work of architects I.M. Pei and Frank Gehry to be really inspiring. Their use of form and function as well as their thoughtfulness to the context surrounding their work is incredible. I try to incorporate their perfectionist spirit into my own work. Conceptually, I love exploring the contrast between the beautiful and the grotesque and am inspired by cinema and different subcultures that exist in our society."

What is your relationship like with NYC? How does it affect your work/working life?
"Living in New York has afforded me the opportunity to meet and collaborate with an array of talented people that continue to motivate me every day. With all the diversity and culture in the city, there is never a dull moment and there is always something to be inspired by. The only drawback I find is that the industry here is significantly more monetized than other major cities such as London, which sometimes can limit creative freedom."

Photo: Courtesy of Jason Kim