Meet Chesoen Tan

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Chesoen Tan. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Chesoen below.

Chesoen, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

I found my purpose in life when I was introduced to the world of photography. The moment I held a camera and started capturing moments for others, I felt an indescribable joy. Seeing people smile and express their satisfaction when I was able to beautifully preserve their portraits or moments of togetherness was incredibly fulfilling.

For me, photography is like a time machine—it allows me to revisit fleeting moments that would otherwise be lost. Everything ordinary becomes extraordinary when seen through the lens.

This art form has given me a profound sense of purpose. It made me realize that I could contribute to others’ lives in a meaningful way. By capturing their memories, I create happiness and preserve emotions. Photography has made me feel seen, valued, and impactful—a source of strength I never knew I had.

Making others smile and feel joy is the greatest reward I could ever ask for.

Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?

I am Chesoen Tan, a portrait and wedding photographer based in Bali, Indonesia. In 2017, I founded Namasa Weddings, inspired by the Sanskrit meanings of “intellect” and “soul,” which reflect the essence of our work.

At Namasa Weddings, we specialize in fine art wedding photography, blending beauty portraiture with documentary-style storytelling to create timeless and elegant visuals. Our approach ensures that each couple’s unique love story is authentically and luxuriously preserved.

Beyond weddings, I am passionate about portrait photography, capturing individuals in their truest form and highlighting their unique beauty. Whether in serene studio sessions or dynamic outdoor environments, I aim to craft images that reflect personal stories and genuine emotions.

What excites me most about my work is the ability to immortalize fleeting moments—be it a joyful tear, a confident gaze, or the quiet beauty of everyday interactions. Each photograph holds the power to evoke emotions and rekindle memories for years to come.

Namasa Weddings is entering an exciting phase of growth. We are expanding our services to cater to international clients, elevating our branding to align with a global, high-end market. Our goal is to share Bali’s charm worldwide, offering a luxurious and timeless wedding photography experience to couples everywhere.

At the heart of our work is the belief that photography is more than art; it’s a means of making people feel seen, valued, and connected. Whether through a wedding album or a portrait session, our mission is to create images that resonate deeply and stand the test of time.

For more information about my work and portfolio, please visit my personal website at www.chesoentan.com and Namasa Weddings at www.namasa.net.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

1. Adaptability to change.

The world is constantly evolving, and being able to adapt to new trends, technologies, and ways of thinking has been one of the most important skills in my journey. Whether it’s embracing digital tools in photography or understanding the changing expectations of clients, staying open and flexible has allowed me to remain relevant and grow.

Learn to view change not as a challenge but as an opportunity for growth. Embrace it, and you’ll find yourself ahead of the curve. Don’t resist learning new skills or exploring new approaches, even if they feel unfamiliar at first.

2. Be a teacher, then a student.

Teaching others what you know is an incredible way to solidify your understanding and give back to the community. At the same time, always remain a student—curious, humble, and open to learning new things. This dual mindset has kept me growing, both personally and professionally.

Share your knowledge generously, but never stop seeking new perspectives. Every person and every experience has something to teach you. By being both a teacher and a student, you’ll continually refine your craft and enrich your life.

3. Be unique and irreplaceable.

In a competitive field, I’ve learned the importance of standing out. Your skills, your perspective, and your approach are what make you irreplaceable. Someone can always replicate a technique, but they can’t replicate your authenticity, your creativity, or the unique way you connect with people.

Don’t strive to be better than others; strive to be different. Invest in what makes you special and let that shine through in your work and interactions. Build a legacy that others will remember and respect.

Advice for those just starting out:
Never forget to be grateful for where you are and the opportunities you’ve been given. Always give your best in everything you do, and stay humble no matter how much success comes your way. Gratitude, effort, and humility are the foundation of long-term growth and fulfillment.

Remember: Success is not just about achieving goals but about the person you become along the way. Stay true to yourself, keep improving, and never lose sight of the bigger picture.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

When my father was just 30 years old—the same age I am now—he suffered a devastating stroke. I was only 7 or 8 at the time, with a younger sister who has always been an incredible source of strength. Watching my father slowly lose his ability to speak and walk was heart-wrenching. Over the years, his recovery was a constant cycle of progress and setbacks. For a decade, the stroke became a part of our lives until it confined him to a hospital bed for months. Eventually, we brought him home for care, and just a few months later, he passed away.

Throughout all of this, my mother became the backbone of our family. She took on the roles of mother, father, and sole provider, raising my sister and me with unwavering strength and love. She taught us resilience, perseverance, and the importance of finding joy even in the hardest of times.

The most impactful lesson my parents left me is this: health is everything. Take care of your body and mind, because with good health, anything is possible. They also showed me that life doesn’t always go according to plan. Not everything we envision will come to fruition.

But in those moments of disappointment, we learn to accept, adapt, and keep moving forward. Life is not just about achieving big milestones—it’s about finding happiness in the small, everyday moments that make up our journey.

Their story taught me the beauty of perseverance, the strength in embracing uncertainty, and the value of appreciating life as it unfolds.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.chesoentan.com
• Instagram: @chesoentan
• Linkedin: @chesoentan
• Other: www.namasa.net
  Instagram: @namasaweddings