THE WORLD THROUGH HIS LENS

PIONEER photographer Corporal (CPL) Timothy Sim, who earned a nomination in an international photography competition recently, has his sights set on a career in photojournalism.

For a photographer with barely two years' worth of experience under his belt, CPL Sim has gained international recognition in a remarkably short period of time.

He was shortlisted under the Amateur Documentary category of the prestigious Sony World Photography Awards - his first international photography competition - for his photograph of a Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) officer watching his foreign counterpart make a radio call.

CPL Sim was one of 190 photographers from 48 countries chosen out of 80,000 photo entries. The Awards, now in its third year, is sponsored by Sony and organised by the World Photographic Academy to strengthen ties within the photographic industry.

CPL Sim, who graduated from Ngee Ann Polytechnic with a Diploma in Mass Communication, has been working in PIONEER for over a year as part of his NS.

The 22-year-old Full-Time National Serviceman (NSF) is currently serving his National Service (NS) as a PIONEER photographer. Chief Photographer Chua Soon Lye, his mentor, encouraged him to enter the competition.

CPL Sim's photo, one of 10 in the Amateur Documentary shortlist, shows an SAF officer looking on while his foreign counterpart makes a radio call back to headquarters to get the go-ahead for an attack during a joint exercise. Elaborated CPL Sim: "The inspiration I had was the joy of being able to shoot an operational exercise, something that's extremely rare, even as a military photojournalist here."

Mr Chua shared his feelings on CPL Sim's achievement: "He has improved a lot since I first met him, and his passion is still burning strong... I hope this nomination encourages future generations of NSF photojournalists to pick up the craft".

Said CPL Sim of what being a photographer with PIONEER means: "It has opened my eyes to new experiences and perspectives... Mr Chua challenges me to do better all the time and make the most out of every shot and not to limit myself."

To CPL Sim, who is looking to pursue a degree in photojournalism overseas after he completes his NS, this nomination is an opportunity to gain recognition as a budding photographer.

He stands to win up to US$5,000 (S$7,000) and camera gear from Sony should he top the Amateur Documentary category and clinch the Amateur Photographer of The Year Award.