9 Questions With Melody Lin, Photographer & Founder of Oh Dear Studio

Ever wondered what it’s like to be in the photography business? We speak to Melody Lin, Photographer & Founder of Oh Dear Studio to find out more about her job and why she does what she does.

1. Tell us more about yourself.

Hi! I am Melody Lin, photographer and founder of Oh Dear Studio. I was trained as a graphic designer and had extensive work experience in advertising and digital imaging. Later on, I decided to pursue my passion and started Oh Dear Studio.

2. When did you realise you have a passion for photography?

I’ve always had a passion for photography. What I love about photography is that its products are forever – they are always cherished and priceless, and is the only way to immortalise moments of our lives.

Maternity shoot in Singapore

3. How did Oh Dear Studio come about?

I have been photographing professionally since 2010 for engagement and prewedding shoots. In 2013, I had my firstborn and started specialising in family photography. I was actually with another photography studio until early 2020, but was very unhappy and dissatisfied at that point because I had little say over the creative direction of my photos, and I felt very micro-managed. With tremendous support from my ex-clients and family, I started Oh Dear Studio in August 2020.

Graduation photoshoot in Singapore

4. What sets Oh Dear Studio apart from other photography studios in Singapore?

What makes Oh Dear Studio truly unique is its space – housed in a colonial shophouse with full French-style windows and timeless vintage furnishing, it offers plenty of opportunities for beautiful photos. Another unique feature of Oh Dear Studio is that it’s surrounded by ample natural light all year round. That allows me to shoot with a combination of natural light and studio lighting, creating airy, timeless portraits.

Photo studio in Singapore

Apart from that, you can expect excellent customer service and prompt, speedy replies from me!

5. What’s your favourite type of photoshoot?

I really enjoy photographing all of my clients, but if I were to pick a favourite, I’d say families and newborns. I love being able to witness the love and interaction between families and listening to their stories.

One incident in particular stood out to me. I photographed a graduation shoot in December 2021, and later learned that the father had unfortunately passed on a couple of months after the shoot. The client thanked me for capturing their last portrait with their late father. This made me realise that life and the time we have with our family is really limited and the importance of taking a family portrait. After all, that is the only meaningful legacy we can leave behind for our loved ones.

6. How do you get inspiration for your photoshoots?

I take inspiration from my children, who are 6 and 9 years old respectively. I also regularly check in on my muses and favourite photographers’ works. Surfing Instagram and watching reels have also helped me stay ahead of the latest trends.

7. Among your works, which one is your favourite, and why?

That’s like asking a mother who is her favourite child (laughs). All of my work are my favourite. Believe it or not, I can remember almost each and every one of my photographed clients and families throughout my 13 years of professional photography.

Family sharing a moment with their beloved pet dogs

8. What’s the most rewarding part of being a photographer?

I’d say having the privilege to witness families growing, and knowing that my work and portraits will forever be treasured.

Grandchildren sharing a tender moment with their grandma

Family photoshoot at Oh Dear Studio

9. How would you describe your photography style?

Candid, natural, spontaneous. That said, I do not have a fixed style. Every photoshoot is tailored to the client – if they are goofy and fun-loving, the pictures will speak for themselves and naturally exude a child-like happiness and spontaneity. If the client is chic and stylish, the photos will turn out fashionable and classic.