Interview: A大

Interview: A大

Although some people are having a positive attitude towards collecting dolls, some still cannot accept males collecting dolls as a hobby…

When and why did you start collecting dolls and taking photos of them? Can you tell us what your beginnings looked like? What kind of dolls do you focus on? Do you also collect scale figures or Nendoroids?

I have been collecting dolls since 2015 when my friends introduced me to Dollfie Dream dolls by Volks. At first, my pictures were unsatisfactory because I could not even make my doll pose properly. Besides Dollfie Dream dolls, I also collect scaled figures.

How do you plan the scenes and what kind of results do you try to achieve?

First, I plan the theme and then choose the best place and clothes to match the theme.

How is collecting dolls and taking photos of them perceived as a hobby in Taiwan?

Most people consider them a type of product photography when they see me taking pictures outdoors. Although some people are having a positive attitude towards collecting dolls, some still cannot accept males collecting dolls as a hobby and doll photography is still not widely known.

Do you use any special photography or post-production technique?

I love using doll stands and wires to make my dolls pose and I use Photoshop for editing.

What is the favourite doll photo you have ever taken and which has been the most challenging one?

My very favourite and also the most challenging shot is a picture on a car park building where I almost dropped my doll from the tall building.

What is your favourite season for taking photos?

I prefer spring as it is not so hot and I can stay outdoors for a longer time.

What cameras and lenses do you use to photograph the dolls?

I am currently using a Canon EOS 5D4 and, speaking of lenses, I mainly use a Sigma 14-24mm F2.8 and an EF24-70 F2.8.

What would you recommend to someone who is considering starting to collect dolls and take photos of them? What camera and equipment would you recommend starting with?

I would recommend getting doll stands first and purchasing a full-frame camera with a zoom lens to start.