The Story

My name is Quan Nguyen, and I am a photographer from Hanoi, Vietnam.

I embarked on my photography journey at the beginning of my freshman year, pouring my modest food and emergency budget into a Sony a7III. Many thought I was erring by investing heavily in such high-end gear with little prior exposure to photography. However, the allure of capturing moments through a lens drew me irresistibly, and without much thought of a career, I plunged into the world of photography.

The little I knew about taking pictures came from trips with my father, who had dabbled in photography for fifteen years. His passion for capturing the essence of our travels left a deep imprint on me, subtly crafting my perspective and approach to photography.

Carrying my camera everywhere for over a year, I delved into various genres before finding my niche in sports photography. This happened serendipitously when I began working with the Purdue Exponent, which opened doors to shooting diverse collegiate sports. The pinnacle of this phase was undoubtedly covering the 2024 March Madness Final Four and Championship games—a profound experience that solidified my aspiration to pursue sports photography professionally.

Through these experiences, I've learned the importance of following one's passion, even when it seems impractical or risky to others. The commitment to my camera allowed me to discover my zeal for sports photography and has set me on a path I am eager to explore further. My next goal is clear: to establish myself as a full-time professional sports photographer, capturing the dynamic and exhilarating moments that sports offer.

The Lesson

From my journey with photography, one of the most significant lessons I've learned is the value of passion and perseverance. When I first invested in a high-end camera without formal training or experience, it was a leap of faith driven by a genuine love for capturing life's moments. This initial step, fueled by enthusiasm rather than expertise, taught me that passion can be a powerful motivator. It has driven me to push boundaries, learn quickly, and adapt—invaluable qualities in any pursuit.

Another lesson has been the importance of resilience and flexibility. I've learned that adaptability is key by carrying my camera everywhere and taking every opportunity to shoot. Whether adjusting to different lighting conditions in various sports arenas or capturing the fast-paced action of basketball and football games, the ability to swiftly adapt to changing circumstances has been crucial. This flexibility has improved my technical skills and enhanced my ability to capture compelling stories through my lens.

Lastly, my experiences have underscored the importance of seizing opportunities and setting new goals. From working with the Purdue Exponent to being selected to cover major collegiate sports events, each opportunity has been a stepping stone toward greater achievements. Setting ambitious goals, like becoming a full-time professional sports photographer, keeps me motivated and focused. It's a reminder that every small step can lead to bigger opportunities if one is willing to pursue them with determination and hard work.