Trung Phan Photography

I've been in traveling mode for the last 4 years now

published August 13, 2024

My Return to Portland
After years of making my way downtown, I found myself nestled in an apartment with a sweeping view of the cherry blossoms. My equipment was always ready, allowing me to create content and media daily, capturing the beauty of Portland at my fingertips. The city was mine to explore, with everything I could ever need just a short walk away. But as the lockdown stretched on, the days began to blur together. Each one felt like the last, and that monotony seeped into my photography and video work. I found myself just waiting for the next new thing, a cycle that felt both endless and empty.

I've shared this story many times, especially now that we've all experienced the collective memory of lockdown. But it's time to move forward, to write new stories.

I took some of my new favorite photos while on the move for the last 4 years. | Trung Phan Photography
I took some of my new favorite photos while on the move for the last 4 years.

1 full year after that downtown apartment, I found myself re-established on the East Coast, diving into a new chapter with a wedding agency. The lessons were countless;

  • I became equal parts videographer and photographer.
  • I acquired my dream camera setup (which I'll share more about in another blog).
  • traveled multiple times to the West Coast
  • spent a month in NYC
  • and even began restoring furniture.

Yet, amidst all this, I started to deeply miss the Pacific Northwest. I found every excuse to make my way back, taking on any job that could bring me closer to returning to Portland as a wedding photographer.

And now, I'm back in town. My focus is on re-establishing myself in this city that holds so much inspiration.

I was doing my best to get back to the PNW without knowing it. | Trung Phan Photography
I was doing my best to get back to the PNW without knowing it.

Since returning, I've rekindled my love for the small things—starting with coffee. Portland's coffee culture is unparalleled, and I've made it a mission to explore every corner of it. From hidden gems tucked away in quiet neighborhoods to the bustling downtown cafes, each cup has its own story, and each sip brings me closer to feeling truly at home again. I've also started to explore the east side of the Portland river. Most of my time in Portland previously was on the west side and I am happy to see more.

Photo by Jonas Jacobsson | Trung Phan Photography
Photo by Jonas Jacobsson

In addition to exploring the city's coffee scene, I've upgraded my equipment. My new camera setup has been a game-changer, allowing me to capture moments with even greater clarity and emotion. It’s more than just gear; it’s an extension of how I see the world, and I can't wait to share the results with all the couples I'll be working with.

Shot on the 50mm gm f 1.2 | Trung Phan Photography
Shot on the 50mm gm f 1.2

what excites me most is the opportunity to work with new wedding couples. Each couple brings their own unique story, and it's an honor to be part of their journey. The love, the excitement, the nerves—all of it reminds me why I fell in love with this profession in the first place. There's something magical about capturing those fleeting moments, preserving them forever in a photograph. As I dive back into the wedding scene here in Portland, I’m filled with a renewed sense of purpose and passion.

 | Trung Phan Photography
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