Behind The Lens: Rebecca Berger | Award-Winning Photographer

Behind The Lens: Rebecca Berger

For this year’s campaign shoot in Singapore, we were beyond excited to have award-winning photographer Rebecca Berger (@rebeccabergerphotography) behind the lens.

In our latest blog, Rebecca opens up about how motherhood has influenced her photography style and shares valuable tips for parents on capturing those candid, authentic moments with your tykes. From letting go of the pressure to create picture-perfect smiles to embracing the beauty of imperfection, Rebecca explains why the most genuine, unposed moments often make the most memorable photos.

Tell us a bit about yourself and what inspired you to become a photographer?

Hi! I’m half-Austrian/half-south African, and have lived in Singapore with my 2 girls and husband for the last 2 years after living in various countries around the world.

I’ve always loved photography (got my first camera at age 7), but once I had my first baby I began documenting her growth and realised how fast time goes and how important photos really are. I also lost my Mum at a young age, and the photos I have of her are like treasures to me. I really just want to give that same gift to others - memories frozen in time, for you to look back on for years to come.

What’s one of your favourite family activities that often inspires your photography?

Definitely play. Just having fun together as a family, whether out in nature or in your home, will always result in natural moments and smiles

Do you have any go-to techniques for making kids feel comfortable in front of the camera?

This is where my years of acting training come in! Just being silly and not taking myself too seriously. It also helps I have 2 younger kids myself, so I get lots of practice at home.

What’s your advice for parents preparing for a family photo session

Don’t practice how to ‘smile for the camera’ with your little ones before your shoot! This just leads to stiff smiles. Let me do the work and get those natural smiles out of your kids :)

What lessons has motherhood taught you that have impacted your photography style or approach?

1. Time really does just go so fast when you have kids, and they change so quickly. I’ve realised the importance of capturing each fleeting chapter, before it’s just a distant memory. Especially those first few years that can often go by in a sleep-deprived blur.
2. Embrace the imperfect - I’ve had to let go of my perfectionism to really appreciate all the imperfect moments that we want to remember. There is beauty in imperfection ❤️

What are some of your favourite places in Singapore to visit and photograph families or children?

Singapore has SO many great location options: whether you want lush greenery (Fort Canning/Botanical Gardens), iconic Singapore Landmarks (Gardens by the Bay, MBS) or colourful shophouses and quaint neighbourhoods (Joo Chiat/Tiong Bahru). At the moment I’m loving Marina Barrage, for its beautiful view of the MBS and city, and I love taking the family there on a weekend to fly kites and have a picnic as the sun sets.