The Camera as My Canvas & the Knowledge of Lighting as My Brush

Welcome to my first photography blog, The Camera as My Canvas & the Knowledge of Lighting as My Brush.

Let me start with a brief introduction. My name is Emil Alejo, and in the world of photography, I go by the alias IRIEROOTSINI. I am a FilAmOz (Filipino-American-Australian) professional photographer who grew up in the U.S., where I studied fine arts in Southern California. In 2013, I migrated to Australia and, two years later, established Irierootsini Photography to provide high-quality commercial photography services to businesses and individuals across Sydney.

My Approach to Photography

Now, let’s talk about my creative approach to commercial photography. You might be wondering: What does a camera have to do with a canvas, and how does lighting function like a brush?

Imagine a talented artist about to create a masterpiece on a blank canvas—without paint or brushes. Can you picture that? Now, visualize a photographer without light, standing in complete darkness, holding a camera. The similarity is striking!

Just as an artist needs paint and brushes to bring an idea to life, a photographer relies on light to shape, enhance, and define an image. In my work, lighting is my paint, my brush, and my creative tool—allowing me to craft visually stunning images that tell a story.

Why Lighting is Everything in Photography

To truly understand why lighting is the foundation of photography, let's take a quick look back in history. Before the invention of modern cameras, many artists used a fascinating tool called the camera obscura to project and trace images with incredible accuracy.

If you're curious about how this early technique influenced modern photography, I highly recommend watching this five-minute video by Cooperative of Photography (COOPH) titled 'The History of Photography' This short clip offers an engaging overview of photography’s evolution—showing how artists became the first photographers and how light has always played a central role in image creation.

This video explores how early artists used the camera obscura, a technique that paved the way for modern photography. It also highlights key milestones in photography’s evolution, from the first cameras to today’s digital advancements. This history reinforces why lighting is the foundation of photography—shaping every image and influencing how photographers, like myself, approach their work.

Photography as Art: My Commitment to Excellence

By watching the video, you’ll see that the first photographers were artists. Now, you can understand why I say: "The Camera as My Canvas & the Knowledge of Lighting as My Brush."

At Irierootsini Photography, I approach every project as a masterpiece, treating my clients’ needs as if they were my own. As a commercial photographer, I work across all major photography genres, from product photography to professional headshots and lifestyle shoots. My goal? To deliver world-class images that elevate brands, enhance marketing campaigns, and create lasting impressions.

My drive to be the best fuels my passion for helping businesses and individuals succeed. With my artistic eye, technical expertise, and deep understanding of lighting, I create stunning, high-impact photographs that go beyond expectations. Photography is more than capturing moments—it’s about crafting powerful visual narratives that inspire.

Explore My Work & Stay Inspired

Feel free to explore my gallery, featuring a diverse collection of images spanning:

✔ Lifestyle Photography

✔ Product Photography

✔ Professional Headshots

✔ Portrait Photography

Join me on this photography blog as I share behind-the-scenes insights from past and present projects, plus valuable photography tips for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Until our next encounter, stay inspired!