The Regulars: An Interview with Ronaldo Tungol
Photographer: Ronaldo Tungol
Studio / Company: Ronaldo Tungol Photography
Type Of Photography: Portrait, Fashion
Tell us a bit about yourself…
I’ve always loved going through magazines as a kid. To be honest I didn’t think that I could possibly end up taking pictures of that quality. It wasn’t until I went on a Euro Trip in 2007 that I started to pay attention to the pictures I was taking. This led me to enrolling into some photography courses, which just completely ignited my love for photography.
What in particular draws you to photography?
How there isn’t a need for any narration or dialogue - you can just look at an image and in your mind tell a story of how the photograph came to be, and why it was taken.
Tell us about a photographic challenge you overcame.
I’m in a photographic challenge right now - I’m trying to find my style, my own look and how I would like the public to perceive my photography. I’ll let you know how it goes when I get there… It’s a hell of process. I look forward to it everyday.
What’s the one thing you could not go into a shoot without?
Imagination.  Mark Twain said it best: “You can’t depend on your eyes if your imagination is out of focus”. That and a reflector!
What is your philosophy regarding photo taking? Any personal rules you stick to?
I just feel that some things and certain moments demand to be captured.There is a quote from Anne Leibovitz that strikes a cord with me: “The camera makes you forget your there, it’s not like your hiding but you forget, cause your looking so much.”
I totally agree with this. Being behind the camera we lose ourselves at times because we wait for that perfect moment to press down on the shutter. And No there should be no rules!
What gear do you prefer to shoot with?
I shoot with Canon. I have a 5D Mark 3, my favourite lens is the 85mm prime.
When did you first come to Downtown Camera? Anyone in particular you remember?
I first came to downtown Camera when I wanted to upgrade from my Canon Rebel XTI. I’m somewhat indecisive so I’m sure I annoyed the person that was helping me with all my questions. *laughs* I consider Nick to be a good friend. So I pretty much bug him with all my tech questions.
Any advice to fresh photographers?
There is no substitute for experience. So shoot and shoot often! In terms of Fashion photography, I’ve learned the most from assisting photographers whose work I admire. I observe everything from the technical side to how they interact with the team and the models.
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