Vivian Kim

Vivian Kim is a Los Angeles based photographer & director. Spending much of her time outdoors, Vivian is inspired by the simple, yet intricate beauty of the natural world. Her work reflects her attention to detail, as she captures the in-between moments that look and feel effortless and refreshing. She values collaboration and brings a fresh and motivated energy to each project, to produce truly impactful work.

What made you first pick up a film camera?

"My best friend Dylan got one from his grandpa when we were in high school. We were so intrigued and would mess around and shoot our friends. I loved the process. Never looked back since!!"

 I can see that you shoot a lot of models, is it fair to say that you prefer portraiture to landscape?

"I started off shooting landscape. I ventured into fashion / portraiture because I feel like it’s more challenging and engaging. I admire nature so much and when I’m in nature, I just want to enjoy it for what it is. Shooting people and fashion is fun because I love storytelling."

What message do you try to convey in your photos?

"I try to convey a sense of freedom and simplicity. We over-consume, overthink, over-compare, over-everything nowadays. I find so much beauty in the mundane. I love that a lot of life’s simple pleasures can be so accessible."

What are you passionate about besides photography?

"I’m passionate about community and people helping people. In such an individualistic and (at times) disconnected society, I think it’s really important to actively put others first. This helps us to live beyond ourselves and beyond our ego. I try to challenge myself to help whenever I can, and really take time to appreciate when others do the same for me."

If you had to go back and tell your 18-year-old self one thing - what would it be?

"I would tell myself to be young and relish every moment. Youth is a concept I hold so dearly — and though I feel pleased with where I’m at and where I’m going, I miss the carefreeness of childhood all the time. And that it’s ok to make mistakes, and that (in most cases), there is no right or wrong decision."

Instagram: @viviankimx