JONATHAN CHERRY: What gets you up in the morning?

DANIEL SEUNG LEE: My alarm clock gets me up, mostly. The only reason I don’t go back to sleep is knowing anything can happen on any given day (but my multiple alarms might have something to do with it). 

JC: Can you name two emerging photographers inspiring you at the moment?

DSL: It’s so tough picking only two photographers, but I’d have to go with Nicholas Haggard and Ryan Pfluger. I instantly fell in love with Nicholas’ work when I first saw it - his colors and tones are absolutely perfect. Ryan’s work speaks for itself - it’s his passion and work ethic that really inspires me. I’ve had a chance to get to know him in the past year and he’s always busy with multiple projects.

JC: What is your current project all about?

DSL: Growing up, I always wanted to take a cross country road trip and I did just that this past summer. My work has always been heavily influenced by my immediate environment, from my everyday surroundings to unfamiliar landscapes I encounter during my travels. For this trip, I really wanted to focus specifically on documenting the natural beauty of America. I shot a ton of film, so I’m actually still working on those photos.

JC: In your opinion whats good about shooting portraits?

DSL: People have always been my favorite subject to photograph. I usually have a pretty good idea what my film is going to look like, but photographing people is different because it takes two people to make the photograph - the photographer and the subject. There needs to be a mutual trust and participation between the two people in order to get the shot. I’ve always enjoyed that part about shooting portraits. 

JC: What equipment do you use?

DSL: I have been using a Contax 645 for almost a year now and I’m loving it.

JC: Any advice to recent photography graduates?

DSL: Keep shooting, have passion for the work you’re making, and don’t compare yourself to anyone. 

JC: How is L.A?

DSL: You know what… it’s great. Growing up here, I don’t think I ever fully appreciated this city. It’s only recently I’ve come to the realization that I actually love it here. It’s home to me so it’ll always have a special place in my heart. Although, I’m thinking about making the move to New York in a few years for a change of scenery. 

JC: Favourite tree?

DSL: When I was in D.C. during my road trip, I took a photo of the most beautiful tree and I believe it’s called a Chinese Fringe Tree. That is probably one of my favorite trees I’ve come across. Also, the willow tree from Disney’s hit movie, Pocahontas.