The Creative Balancing Act: A Day in the Life of a Designer and Photographer

As a product designer in an IT startup in Singapore, I wear many hats on a daily basis. My responsibilities range from designing UX – user experiences and conducting user research to frontend development. I am passionate about what I do, and I approach each day with enthusiasm and a desire to learn.I start my day with a cup of coffee and a quick look at my email. Before starting my design work, I make a mental note of any urgent tasks that need to be finished. My goal as a product designer is to make sure a great experience to the end users that are both aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly. I involve closely with the development team to make sure my designs are carried out efficiently.

Throughout the day, I conduct user research to better understand our users’ needs and pain points. This involves analyzing user feedback, conducting surveys and user interviews (in an objective way), and collaborating with the team members of the product team to gather insights. By using this information, I ensure that each design solution is tailored to our users.My job gives me the chance to learn new skills, which I love. I am continuously extending my knowledge of coding languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript as a frontend developer. Keeping up with industry trends also means experimenting with new design tools and techniques.

After a long day at work, I like to unwind by indulging in my other passion: street photography. Singapore is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage, and there is always something new and interesting to capture through my lens. I love exploring the city on foot, wandering through the bustling streets and capturing candid shots of people going about their daily lives.Street photography is a form of visual storytelling that allows me to express myself creatively. I am drawn to the rawness and authenticity of the street, and I strive to capture the essence of the people and places I encounter. I am particularly drawn to the juxtaposition of old and new in Singapore, and I love to capture the city’s unique blend of traditional and modern elements.

My love for photography extends beyond just taking photos. I am also an avid collector of vintage cameras and retro lenses. I love to window shop for new additions to my collection, searching for hidden gems and unique finds. There is something special about the craftsmanship and design of vintage cameras, and I am fascinated by the history and stories behind each piece.

Balancing my job as a product designer with my love of street photos can be difficult at times. However, I think that both endeavors enhance one another. As a designer, I am always looking for ways to build experiences that are both useful and visually appealing. Similarly, my photography allows me to capture the beauty and complexity of the world around me in an artistic and meaningful way.My lives as a product designer and a street shooter are, in many ways, two faces of the same coin. Both necessitate a keen eye for detail, a willingness to experiment and take risks, and a profound appreciation for the beauty of our surroundings. Whether I’m creating a new user interface or photographing a stunning street scene, I’m always looking for ways to push the boundaries of what’s possible and create something both beautiful and meaningful.

As the day draws to a close, I consider the many hats I don and the many distinct passions that motivate me. It’s a constant journey of discovery and creativity for me as a product designer and street photographer, and I’m glad to be able to combine the two. I am always excited to see where my journey will take me next, whether I am working on a new design project or exploring the streets of Singapore with my camera.