We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Thong Nguyen. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Thong below.
Thong, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
1. Knowledge: Understanding the dynamics of a situation or problem allows me to navigate challenges effectively, fostering a positive outlook. With knowledge, I can better prepare and plan for various situations, reducing anxiety and enhancing optimistic feelings. Knowledge enhances my ability to find solutions to problems, which can instill confidence and optimism about overcoming future obstacles.
2. Experience:
Previous experiences, especially overcoming difficulties, can build resilience and create a belief that I can handle future challenges. Experience allows me to learn from my mistakes, refine my approaches, and improve future outcomes, which can enhance an optimistic outlook. Successfully navigating through situations provides validation, which may increase my self-esteem and promote a positive view of future scenarios.
3. Exercises:
Practicing positive affirmations can reshape thought patterns and cultivate a more optimistic mindset. Engaging in exercises like maintaining a gratitude journal can shift focus from negative to positive aspects of life, fostering optimism. These practices can reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and allow for reflection, helping individuals understand and process emotions more effectively.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Hello! I’m Thong Nguyen, a photographer and wedding storyteller based in Dallas-Fort Worth and the founder of 7thStory. The essence of 7thStory goes beyond mere photography. The name itself, as mentioned, is a heartfelt homage to my mother and wife, symbolizing personal milestones and the weaving of personal tales into the professional realm. This blend of personal and professional elements ensures that every wedding I shoot isn’t just an assignment but a story that I become a part of, allowing me to capture authentic and emotionally resonant moments. I specialize in wedding photography, weaving visual narratives that eternalize a couple’s special day’s dynamic moments and intricate details. What excites me the most about what I do is the ability to capture the unspoken, candid moments and emotions that unfold during weddings. It’s not just about snapping pictures; it’s about encapsulating memories, emotions, and stories that will be cherished across generations.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
My ability to tell a compelling story through images with cooperating emotional intelligence and technical proficiency has set me apart. Crafting a visual narrative that resonates emotionally enables the memories captured to live on meaningfully in the hearts of my clients.
To develop emotional intelligence, I recommend practicing active listening, being fully present during interactions, and learning to manage and respond to your emotions effectively. Work on being perceptive to the unspoken feelings of those around you and react with empathy and understanding. To budding photographers, invest time in learning your equipment inside and out. Attend workshops, enroll in courses, and practice relentlessly. Never stop learning and stay abreast of technological advancements and trends in the industry. Read widely and observe various forms of visual art to understand different narrative structures and aesthetics—practice by creating photo series that tell a story and solicit feedback from peers. Understanding your unique storytelling style is vital, so explore and refine it continually.
Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?
Undoubtedly, the most influential figure in my journey has been my mentor, Raymond Nhut Nguyen. His guidance has been instrumental in shaping my path in wedding photography.
Raymond, with his vast experience and an eye for exquisite wedding photography, has imparted invaluable wisdom regarding our craft’s technical and emotional aspects. He can capture the most transient yet profoundly beautiful moments within a wedding, turning them into timeless memories.
One of the many lessons that have stuck with me is the importance of being invisible yet omnipresent while shooting a wedding. Raymond often emphasizes blending into the background to capture candid and authentic moments while being vigilant and proactive not to miss any significant instances. His mastery in balancing this art of invisibility and presence is something I admired and aimed to imbibe in my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.7thstory.net/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/7thstory.wedding/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/7thstory.DFW/
