Q&A with Architectural Photographer Chang Kyun Kim

Q&A with Architectural Photographer Chang Kyun Kim

by SweisKloss
May 14, 2020

We like giving credit where architectural photo credit is due, which is why we are putting a spotlight on Chang Kyun Kim. When we saw Chang’s photography featured in Dwell a few years ago, we knew we had to have him take photos of SweisKloss projects. The images that he captures is inspiring, showing the essence of the built environment through angles and light. We had a one-on-one with Chang, and here is what he had to say about being a photographer. Q: How did you get into architectural photography?
A: Before turning professional, taking photos of architecture had been my long-time hobby since I was a child. I studied business and literature in college, and after graduation I worked for corporates for seven years. But it didn't take too long to realize what really made me happy, and I decided to make a big change in my career path. When I made the change, I was already determined to be an architectural photographer. Q: What is it about architecture and interiors that interests you?
A: What always interests me in architecture and photography is how well the architecture fits in the whole context of the area and how to "visualize" the specific ideas or stories that the architect wants to tell, which is always challenging, but it's also the main source of fun in my job.

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Q: Do you have a favorite type of architecture to shoot - modern, historic, etc.?
A: I've never thought about what type of architecture I like to shoot, but mid-century modern architecture, especially on the west coast, certainly attracts my eye in which it played a huge role between the old and the contemporary. Q: Tell us something about Los Angeles architecture that inspires you?
A: Its simplicity and openness. As a person who grew up in Asia, my perspective almost automatically starts from that origin, and I try to compare the differences. I always end up finding something interesting or motivating in those two characters: simple and open. I can say that SweisKloss' projects are just exemplary of the two characters—simplicity and openness—that I always love to find in architecture. Q: What photography have you been doing during this pandemic time?
A: Unfortunately most projects from my clients have been postponed. Personally, the pandemic made me feel obligated to take so many photos of my family, and I really try to capture the memorable moments or objects that this disaster has created in my home (whether it's funny or depressing). The images shown here are from Chang’s personal photo archive. To view more of his work, click here.