Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jee Su Kim. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jee Su, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
To keep my creativity alive, I make a conscious effort not to force it. I strive to liberate myself from preconceived notions or ideas, dedicating myself to creating photographs and art shaped by originality and my unique voice. As a visual storyteller, I identify more closely with this title than that of a photographer. I believe my creations extend beyond simple documentation, incorporating additional artistic elements often overlooked under the term “photography”. Associating myself with this broader concept grants me greater artistic liberty, and, in a way, I feel more credited—essential for maintaining motivation in my creative endeavors.
As a meticulous planner, with sensitivity to detail, the constant pressure to produce a “good” photograph requiring meticulous preplanning, precise lighting, optimal composition, and the ability to foster synergy among models or teams I collaborate with—can be overwhelming. While the thrill of a successful outcome is undeniable, it often leads to creative burnout, sometimes causing a reluctance or fear to pick up my camera. However, I decided to let go of the glamorized notion that the best art arises from tortured artists and that creatives must solely focus on their craft, constantly seeking inspiration for greatness. Taking breaks from my routine time to time has proven crucial in maintaining a healthy mental state, allowing me to stay inspired and creative.
Shifting my focus, instead of being fixated on my usual process—I was, perhaps, stubborn—I immersed myself in my surroundings. I began capturing the raw, unfiltered emotions of moments that can never be replicated, embracing candid and unadulterated scenes—the poetry in real-life moments. Rediscovering the cathartic experience associated with the spontaneity of photography, unveiling a new persona within me, and addressing the obsessive thoughts lingering in my subconscious mind and dreams have all contributed to my faith in maintaining creativity and staying motivated.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am a South Korean photo-based artist based in Atlanta, GA, born in the UK and raised in China. Growing up in a multicultural background, I constantly faced the challenge of finding a sense of belonging, allowing me to channel isolation and otherness into a source of empowerment. My work tells intimate narratives with an underlying motif of displacement, capturing the poetry in the mundane and exploring themes of identity, culture, belonging, and human connections.
Some of my work have been featured in several group exhibitions in the US and recently debuted in South Korea, with another forthcoming exhibition this year. I have received international recognition, including being a 2023 New England Portfolio Review (NEPR) Student Scholarship Awardee, a Critical Mass 2023 Finalist of Photolucida, and receiving Honorable Mention awards from the International Photography Awards (IPA) in the Analog/Film and Fine Art categories, as well as the Tokyo International Foto Awards 2023 in the Book Fine Art category. I have also achieved 1st Place Winner in SCAD Libraries’ Annual Artists’ Book Competition and self-published two artist photo books, one of which is included in the Savannah College of Art and Design Library Atlanta Special Collections.
I am a graduate of Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) with a BFA in Photography and a minor in Film/Television. Currently, I serve as the Artistic Operations Manager and Assistant Curator at Atlanta Photography Group (APG) Gallery—a nonprofit organization that provides opportunities and support to the fine art photo community in Atlanta and of all backgrounds. With the passion for photography and fine art overall, I aspire to deepen my understanding for gallery spaces and curation, continuing my journey to showcase my own work in such environments. Additionally, I have been actively working on personal photo projects and creating photo books, recently discovering a growing passion for them and hoping to have the opportunity to publish them in the future.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, I believe the three most impactful qualities that shaped who I am today and guide my vision for the future are healthy obsession, experimentation, and a deep understanding of purpose.
Firstly, embracing a healthy obsession has been crucial for me, which I sometimes define it as a form of faith. Everyone has some form of obsession, and I view it as a valuable tool for idea development and a source of inspiration as a photographer and artist. These obsessive thoughts, whether in dreams or during the day, act as a catalyst for a shift in perspective, influencing what I choose to capture through my lens. Obsession is my imaginative sanctuary—allowing fantasies to manifest into reality and providing a space for self-reflection—helping me delve into the deeper meanings and fulfillments behind my obsessions.
Experimentation is another key component of my journey. I firmly believe in exploring both sides of the spectrum of possibilities. Sometimes, it is better to try something that you’ve only thought of doing but haven’t taken into action than to suffer with curiosity and regret. Whether faced with a choice between the familiar comfort and uncharted path, I advocate trying both. This approach did not only helped me in self-discovery but also provided clarity in decision-making—knowing my limits while but also discovering a new side of myself that I might have regretted not knowing, ultimately helping me make better decisions.
Lastly, understanding the purpose has been a constant reminder for me as a photographer. Before drawing conclusions about whether a photograph is good or bad, I prioritize understanding the driving force behind its creation. This principle applies to any journey—being self-aware of what led you to the path you took. It involves training oneself to listen to their mind, fostering self-awareness, as understanding the purpose behind one’s choices, which I believe is fundamental for a worthwhile and fulfilling journey.
How would you describe your ideal client?
I am naturally drawn to anyone with unique narratives, and it is my goal to capture and unravel these stories through my visual language. Currently, I am dedicated to photographing individuals and communities who have encountered feelings of alienation, displacement, or cultural homelessness, exploring diverse definitions of identity and belonging. If this resonates with your experiences, I would love to hear your story. Feel free to connect with me through any of the contact info below.
I also specialize in fashion and editorial shoots and am open to various creative collaborations. Take a moment to visit my website/instagram for more insights into my work. If your vision aligns with my work, again, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I look forward to our potential collaboration and the unique creations we can bring to life together!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kimjeesu.com/
- Instagram: @jeesu_kim
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jee-su-kim
Image Credits
All photos courtesy of Jee Su Kim Photography. All Rights Reserved.
