Ayelen Captures The Light In You and Your Family
What’s your story?
I was born in Argentina, with half Spanish and half native Latino-American heritage. From a young age, I’ve had a close connection to different creative fields. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Cinema Production, which sparked my love for photography and the interplay of light. However, it was not until my first child was born that I had the courage to transform my love for photography into more than a passion, and start making a living from this art form.
I am a lifestyle photographer who loves to capture emotion, raw images of families, babies and kids in general.
What excites you most about your industry?
I am enthusiastic about preserving memories, of all kinds. I think photography and films are the best way to create keepsakes to enjoy now and for future generations. I feel this is even more necessary now, in our oversaturated world, where we are in a constant state of rushing, and where sometimes we forget to be in the present moment. I also love to be in contact with, and support, as many creatives in my industry as possible, because I believe creativity is not a competition.
What’s your connection to Asia?
My partner and I moved to Hong Kong almost 9 years ago. We came on a two year contract and totally fell in love with the city, the ambient environment, and the possibilities of growing both personally and professionally. We love the mix of cultures and are happy to call this urban jungle our home.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
I think, in general, Hong Kong is the place to be if you want to do business. I love how easy and supportive Hong Kong is for small entrepreneurs because they make the whole process of starting a business easy, from the forms and paperwork, to networking support.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
“Done is better than perfect.” We creatives tend to be perfectionists and never feel completely happy with our final work. And, realising that practice makes the master, we must continually remind ourselves to just go for it, and get it done.
Who inspires you?
My parents, my partner, my children, and all the amazing people I have had the pleasure to meet, inspire me. In general, humanity inspires me. There are a lot of people who do amazing things, but do not have the media exposure they deserve. I believe you can find inspiration in the small things and in the everyday, mundane details of life.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
I am surprised about how people are reinventing themselves during these uncertain times. I am surprised about the generosity of some great talents in the world who are sharing their knowledge in selfless ways, and for free, in different online platforms. I am surprised with how children seem to be coping with this situation.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
I believe we are the result of good and bad experiences, projects, places, books, people we have met and, day after day, all these factors define us, so, if I had done something different, I would not be the person I am right now. Therefore, I would not have done anything differently.
How do you unwind?
I usually read, do yoga, and watch Netflix. But lately, I found the best option to get back to my zen is being surrounded by nature, so I’ve been going hiking and to the beach.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
There are so many options for favourite destinations in Asia. I would say, Nara, in Japan, if you love nature and relaxing, while surrounded by breathtaking spaces. Or Sri Lanka, because I think it still has the perfect balance between being a tourist destination and keeping the local spirit intact.
Everyone in business should read this book:
“Never Eat Alone: And Other Secrets to Success, One Relationship At a Time,” by Keith Ferrazzi.
Shameless plug for your business:
If you want to preserve your memories in a unique way, that shows emotion and connection, while enjoying the experience, I am here to help you.
www.ayelenalcover.com
How can people connect with you?
By email: [email protected]
Instagram: @ayelenalcover
Or website: www.ayelenalcover.com
—
This interview is part of the ‘Callum Connects’ series of more than 500 interviews
Callum Laing is an entrepreneur and investor based in Singapore. He has previously started, built and sold half a dozen businesses and is now a Partner at Unity-Group Private Equity and Co-Founder and CEO of MBH Corporation PLC. He is the author of three best-selling books ‘Progressive Partnerships’, ‘Agglomerate’ and ‘Entrepreneurial Investing’.
Connect with Callum on Twitter and LinkedIn
Download free copies of his books at www.callumlaing.com