Spending nearly 300 days a year traveling, Ian Poh Jin Tze captures unseen stories through photography and writing. From highlighting unsung heroes to narrating a coffee bean’s journey, his work pushes creative boundaries, inspiring a deeper appreciation for life’s overlooked narratives.
A Life on the Move
For Ian Poh Jin Tze, the world is not just a place to explore but a canvas to capture through words and images. As a Regional Director at agrochemical supplier Zagro, Ian balances his professional responsibilities with his passion for storytelling. Spending nearly 300 days a year traveling, he has documented life’s unseen realms through his writing and photography, finding stories in the most unexpected corners of the world.
The Genesis of a Passion
Ian’s journey into photography and writing wasn’t an overnight decision but a gradual evolution. Initially drawn to capturing landscapes, his perspective shifted after encountering a quote by Ted Grant: “If you photograph people in black and white you photograph their souls, but if you photograph them in colour you photograph their clothes.” This realization sparked a transition to more introspective, monochrome photography—capturing emotions rather than just moments.
His written works have appeared in prestigious publications such as Singapore Airlines In-flight Magazine SilverKris, Eater, The Smart Local, Asian Food Network, and Le Cordon Bleu. His two published books, Behind The Scenes: Lives of These Unsung Heroes and The Silent Song of the African Savannah, have been featured in various magazines and newspapers, shedding light on the hidden narratives of everyday heroes and the silent whispers of nature.
Lessons from the Road
Perseverance and persistence have been Ian’s guiding principles. In his early days as a freelance writer, rejection was a constant companion, but his resolve never wavered. Every story, every photograph, was a testament to the struggles and triumphs of those he encountered, whether they were farmers toiling under the sun or artisans crafting beauty in the shadows.
A Unique Perspective
What sets Ian apart is his ability to find beauty in melancholic and pensive scenes. He masterfully juxtaposes architecture with human emotions, capturing moments that seem frozen in time—like a dancer suspended mid-leap. His work is not just about aesthetics but about conveying deeper emotions, telling stories through the silent language of visuals.
The Birth of a Storyteller
Ian’s frequent travels for his day job exposed him to the raw realities of life in developing countries. Witnessing firsthand the backbreaking work of farmers who ensure a steady food supply inspired him to give them a voice. His first book, Behind The Scenes: Lives of These Unsung Heroes, sought to highlight their struggles and sacrifices.
One of his most unconventional storytelling choices came in the form of Through the Eyes of a Coffee Bean, a documentary that narrates the journey of coffee from the perspective of the bean itself. This whimsical yet insightful approach challenged traditional storytelling norms, showcasing Ian’s creative flair.
Milestones and Meaning
For Ian, success isn’t measured in accolades but in impact. The publication of his books stands as a significant milestone—not just as personal achievements but as vehicles for change. Through his storytelling, he hopes to inspire a newfound appreciation for the unseen hands that shape our world, from the hospitality industry to agriculture.
His latest book, The Silent Song of the African Savannah, goes beyond human stories, diving into the world of wildlife. He hopes readers will feel the same deep connection he experienced, realizing that animals, like humans, have purpose, emotions, and roles within the ecosystem.
Overcoming Challenges
Innovation in storytelling often meets resistance, and Ian has faced his share of critics. His unconventional writing style, such as narrating from the perspective of a coffee bean, has been met with both admiration and skepticism. But for Ian, pushing creative boundaries is essential. Art should challenge perceptions, evoke emotions, and inspire thought.
Looking Ahead
Ian’s future goals remain rooted in his desire to share the world through his lens and pen. He wants readers to not just see his photographs or read his words but to feel the depth of the moments he captures. In an age where social media often dictates experiences, he advocates for true immersion—allowing nature and human stories to take center stage over curated digital perfection.
Beyond the Camera
While photography and writing shape Ian’s professional world, his personal passions lie in the exhilarating realms of extreme sports. Scuba diving and skydiving serve as his escape, offering moments of unfiltered peace and freedom. In those fleeting seconds of weightlessness, he finds clarity—a sensation akin to capturing the perfect shot or penning the perfect line.
Advice for Aspiring Storytellers
To those who dream of a path similar to his, Ian offers a simple yet profound truth: The road ahead will be tough, but it is in overcoming these hurdles that we find our true strength.
Through his journey, Ian Poh Jin Tze continues to illuminate unseen worlds, reminding us that every story—whether human, animal, or even a coffee bean—deserves to be told.