Wedding photographer and Fujifilm X-Creator Hoong Qi Rong might be forgiven for suffering from Gear Acquisition Syndrome. Having taken an Introduction to Film class at Singapore Polytechnic, he decided to pursue photography professionally.
As the line between profession and passion blurred, Hoong realised his camera collection was growing at an alarming rate. So, he sold models he wasn’t using and focused on film cameras instead.
According to him, the latter are “historical things with stories”. Over 17,700 followers follow him on Instagram (@qir0ng), where he frequently shares his work.
Is there anything we should know about your photography journey?
I was part of a sneaker collector community before entering polytechnic. Some members took great photos, which inspired me to up my game. With the money I saved from working after “O” levels, I bought a Samsung Galaxy Camera. It was one of the first few consumer models with a “proper” camera system.
What are some of your favourites?
I love my Polaroid SX-70 camera because it’s cool to look at and is a great conversation starter. Another favourite is a camera I bought at a flea market in Russia for $50. It turned out to be a 1980 Moscow Olympic version, which was once mass produced, but it was still a pretty good find. I still use its vintage lens on my digital cameras.
Have you ever sold any of your cameras and regretted it?
A Pentax 67, Nimble 3D, Fujifilm Klasse, and Leica M6. I sold all of them too cheaply; their prices have since risen significantly.
What advice would you give to others trying to start a collection?
Camera collecting is a journey. When it comes to second-hand film cameras, you will learn to recognise good deals from bad over time. Many sellers are not honest about the condition of their cameras.
What are your plans for your collection?
[Chuckles] As long as I get enough jobs, it will keep growing.
Photography Cher Him
Art direction Ed Harland
Grooming Keith Bryant Lee, using Kevin.Murphy and Shiseido
