Finally, after weeks of anticipation, I finally made my way to the Ordinary to Extraordinary Workshop in KL conducted by Louis Pang himself. I booked a return trip via AirAsia and being a newbie in a budget airline, it was completely a whole new experience all together. I have flown on large airlines like MAS or SIA but never had I sat on a budget plane before. Anyhow, it wasn’t too bad an experience except for the long journey from LCCT to the city. I hope they’ll build the new airport nearer to town.

It was my first time meeting Louis and I was a tad bid nervous. Partly because Mark Leo told Louis that I would be attending the workshop. That added extra pressure and I wasn’t sure what the expectation of me would be. The other reason was my own expectation of meeting a photography legend like him and what I would say to him when I meet him. So when I arrived at the venue, and saw him for the first time, I immediately forgot how nervous I was because Louis was really a very warm and friendly person. He made feel like I was someone important. There itself, was already a lesson on its own.

During the 3-day workshop, Louis showed us how he worked and explained what his thought process was during a particular shoot. Reconstructing some of his award winning shots and how he worked the scene as well as posing the models.

There was also an outdoor shoot where we could witness, first hand, how Louis works. All I can say is… it’s AWESOME! If you have never been to a Louis Pang photo shoot, you should attend one of his workshops. Boy, I can’t believe the energy he has. Pure awesomeness.

Louis invited another photographer as a guest speaker, CM Leung. CM is one of the top 5 wedding photographers in HK. Although he doesn’t speak much English, he had no problems explaining to us how he works. I was really impressed with his work. You should pop by his website to take a look at his amazing portfolio and what a visionary he is.

CM showed us some of his tricks with mixed lighting and how he photographs a bride.

The highlight for me for the entire workshop was when I saw Louis actually taking part like another participant in the workshop. He was quick to ask questions and he showed genuine enthusiasm when CM was showing us how he photographs a bride. It’s truly a humbling experience to see someone like Louis raising his hands and say “My turn! My turn! I wanna take a shot! I wanna try!”. It reminded me of someone important who once said, “He who wants to be first, must be last”. At that very moment, I realised how much I still have to learn and how much more I have to go in my journey as a photographer.

Next, was our turn! There were two assignments, one where we were given 3 minutes to construct a shot using whatever is found in a room. We have a model and an assistant. It is up to us and our creativity to come out with a creative shot. What I didn’t realise was how quick 3 minutes is. I didn’t even had time to think when I was there.

So here are my two best shots from the 3-minute exercise.

Next, I had the opportunity to direct while Louis watches in proximity. I would have to assess the scene and decide what shot I would like to take. I will also need to direct the models. Louis gave some constructive feedback while I was shooting the couple. Here are the two best shots from that session.

At the end of the workshop, I thoroughly enjoyed myself and I believe that I paid less than what I received. It was truly a great bargain! I left knowing well that I have lots more to learn as a photography, not just in the area of skills but other qualities that a photographer must have.

I also found new friends and people who share the same heart and passion for photography. These are friends that I would keep for a long time to come.

Before I end, here is a shot of CM and I.

Louis Pang & I.

I would like to thank Louis for organising this workshop because he has not only shared his knowledge but his heart and I am truly inspired. Thanks Louis!

Now, it’s time for the next workshop, “Extraordinary to Phenomenal”. Louis?