Amanda Tan is the first participant to arrive for MS. READ's Cerita Kami shoot - and possibly the most nervous. A professional photographer since she was only nineteen years old, she's used to being behind the camera as opposed to the subject of focus. Combined with her body image issues, she's uncertain if she's the right fit for this project.
"You know how it is, growing up in this culture," she says as she's changing into her first outfit. "Because of how I look, I was always made to feel like I'm not good enough."
Her fears are understandable and we do our best to reassure her. Still, she remains anxious all the way to set. But when she steps in front of the camera and the light begins to flash, something almost magical happens. Her personality and her gorgeous smiles shine through, and Amanda begins to lose herself to moment.
It's safe to say that as much as Amanda takes comfort in the camera, it loves her back just as equally.
