Meet Mark, whose journey into filmmaking didn’t begin in film school. It started behind the lens at weddings. With nothing but a small DSLR and a passion for storytelling, he turned heartfelt moments into visual narratives that resonated deeply. Over time, Mark’s ability to capture emotional, story-driven scenes evolved into a full-fledged career in filmmaking and branded content creation.

Today, Mark balances artistic integrity with commercial strategy, helping brands create content that not only performs but connects. With a sharp eye for value and a deep understanding of what audiences crave, he’s shaping a new generation of creators who prioritise authenticity over algorithms and impact over aesthetics.

You have won awards for several short films. What first drew you to storytelling through film, and how did that passion evolve into a career?

I started off as a wedding photographer, more than 20 years ago. Back then, I was poor and couldn’t afford expensive gear. So, I picked up a small DSLR and began shooting weddings, which were relatively easy to get into. You didn’t need formal qualifications, just a friend’s trust.

Wedding photography taught me storytelling. A close-up of a bride might be pretty, but it’s not a story. A photo of the bride, the setting, her crying mother in the background—that tells a story. That’s how I developed the ability to create images that say a thousand words. Unfortunately, many today just focus on the lens size or bokeh, not the story.

After five or six years in the industry, some of my more mature clients asked if I could shoot videos or do corporate photography. I said yes. I didn’t go to school for this, but I brought my wedding storytelling skills to the corporate world. A corporate shot wasn’t just the boss on stage. It included audience reactions, context, and emotion. Eventually, stills turned into moving pictures. That’s how it all began.

What are the biggest differences between creating films for artistic recognition and content that delivers commercial results?

This might upset some people, but not everyone understands art. Artistic films require imagination. They leave room for interpretation. You may not fully understand them even after several viewings. Commercial content, however, needs to be clear and direct: “Buy this pen. It’s good.”

Unfortunately, many commercial videos today have lost all sense of creativity. They’re literal, boring, and lack soul. I’m not a pure art person either. If a film is so niche that only 1% of viewers understand it, I think it’s a waste of effort. I believe entertainment should be accessible. If people watch something and still have no clue what it means, what’s the point?

Many beginners focus too much on gear. They think they need the latest iPhone or DSLR to compensate for lack of skill. But content is king. The more experienced you are, the less dependent you become on fancy equipment.

How do you help brands maintain authenticity while driving performance on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube?

Performance doesn’t mean boosting posts with money. To me, true performance is organic, where views are driven by value. Every product or service has value, and our job is to communicate that. Instead of saying, “This is the best,” explain how it benefits the viewer. Teach, inspire, or solve a problem.

All my videos on Instagram are 100% organic. That means the content must be valuable and shareable, and it is so good that someone feels compelled to send it to a friend or colleague. That’s how we create real impact.

What are the most common mistakes beginners make, and how can they improve before investing in expensive gear?

Many beginners focus too much on gear. They think they need the latest iPhone or DSLR to compensate for lack of skill. But content is king. The more experienced you are, the less dependent you become on fancy equipment. In fact, over 90% of my content is shot on a phone, including my most viral videos.

Newbies also copy the wrong people. They mimic celebrity trends, forgetting that they’re not celebrities. What works for Taylor Swift doesn’t work for a newcomer. Another mistake is creating content based on personal taste rather than their audience’s interests. It’s important to understand who your audience is and tailor your content accordingly.

What excites you most when you wake up every day—filmmaking, building brands, or inspiring creators?

Honestly? None of the above. I get excited on days I don’t have to film or inspire anyone! I have a lot of hobbies such as singing, cycling, driving. Today is my Sunday drive with my wife, and that made me wake up happy. For me, living a life I enjoy is what excites me.

What is the biggest life lesson you’ve learned?

Not everyone will like you, and you don’t have to like everyone either.

What’s your vision for Singapore in the next five years?

I hope Singapore can chill a bit. We’re too uptight. Even in creative industries, people act like there’s only one “correct” way to do lighting or colour grading. But creativity should be free. I want Singapore to be bolder and more daring in creative expression.

If you could have a superpower for one day, what would it be?

To inspire people through singing. Sounds lame, I know. But my real ambition isn’t just to be a singer, its to be Jacky Cheung!

Connect with Mark: Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.