YOUNG Myanmar people interested in photography have to work particularly hard to develop their skills in this escalating digital era. Compared to other countries, they don’t have as many opportunities to receive professional training and learn how to use the latest technology. So Timeout asked 25-year-old photographer La Min Naing, from Myanmar People magazine, to reveal the secrets of his success and how he managed to make it in media photography.

Timeout: When did you first become interested in photography?
La Min Naing: I have always had a strong interest in photography. I like posing for photographs and I always thought about the different poses. Since I was young, I would always take many photos of my relatives at donation ceremonies and weddings and now it’s my passion. And my social environment is another reason for my interest – my friends are photographers.

You worked as a reporter previously, how did you end up working as a media photographer?
I became familiar with photography when I was working as a reporter, when I would also take commercial photographs. It wasn’t strange for me to change career.

I heard that you came from the countryside, what challenges did you face moving to Yangon?
I only saw and used a digital camera for the first time when I came to Yangon to work as a reporter. It wasn’t easy for me to learn to use the new technology.

How did you overcome this?
I surfed the net for information and analysed photos from famous news agencies like AFP. I studied things like the angle at which they would take the photos. And I also studied privately, under local and foreign teachers. I tried so hard that sometimes I didn’t have time to sleep.

What do you think is the most difficult thing for a Myanmar photographer?
Starting a career in foreign countries. Even in the ASEAN countries, it’s hard for us to get a job and earn a living as a photographer. You really need a certificate or degree – I think we need an internationally-recognised photography academy in Myanmar.

What is the most enjoyable thing about being a media photographer?
The most enjoyable thing is the feedback that you can get from your readers, whether it’s good or bad. It makes me want to take photos even more.

How important is the news media for a photographer?
The media is a great chance for photographers. You can show your works and reach a large audience through newspapers and the internet. Without them, it’s hard for photography lovers see our pictures.

Have you ever felt bored while you are taking photographs?
Yes, sometimes I get bored. I usually listen to music while I’m working. If I feel that I can’t do anymore, I take a break and just listen to music for a while. When I get really stressed, I try to take a short holiday.

What makes you feel bored?
When the model can’t do the pose I want or sometimes I’m just not in the mood to take photo-graphs. When that happens even I want to put down the camera and run away!