Whoever has spent time around Mei, can easily see her confidence and depth to her personality, her words in a way that feels thoughtful and intentional. With a past of political studies, reflects her seriousness mixed with an easy-going levity.
You know when a photograph was taken with an immense amount of joy and genuine dedication. Mei’s photographs are often filled with an amount of positivity that is able to be felt through screens. Her works are recognizable with such character, it is no doubt that Mei is paving her own way in the photography industry.
Rollover Reaction: Hi Mei! Please tell us about yourself. What led you into being a photographer? And now, what do you enjoy most about it?
Meidiana Tahir: Growing up, I was always fascinated by the idea of freezing a moment in time. This curiosity grew into a passion as I got older and also became a way for me to express my emotions and tell stories.
Meeting people, hearing their stories and discovering new places is one of the most enjoyable aspects of being a photographer. It allowed me to connect with everything on a deeper level.
I also love how my work can have an impact, whether it's raising awareness for a cause or simply bringing joy to someone's day.
RR: What does your day look like when you have a photoshoot?
MT: On a photoshoot day, I start early with preparation, ensuring all equipment is ready and reviewing the shoot plan. I arrive at the location early to scout, set up my gear, and discuss the plan with the team. During the shoot, I focus on capturing the best images, giving direction to models, and making adjustments as needed. We take breaks to review progress and maintain energy. After the shoot, I pack up carefully and spend the rest of the day on post-production, selecting and editing the best photos to deliver to the client promptly
RR: Which photographer do you look up to the most? And why?
MT: Nan Goldin.
Her work is incredibly powerful and raw, capturing the complexities of human relationships and the intensity of personal moments. Her ability to tell stories through her lens, revealing the beauty and pain of life has profoundly influenced my approach to photography. Her courage to document her own life and those around her with such vulnerability is something I deeply admire.
RR: Do you have an all time favourite photograph by another artist? Why is it your favourite?
MT: The iconic portrait of John Lennon & Yoko Ono by Annie Leibovitz.
It became my favourite because that photo reminds me how swiftly life can change and how powerful a single image can be.
The photo was taken on the same day Lennon tragically passed away and I see it as one of history’s greatest images of both love and loss.
RR: Can you tell us your getting ready routine?
MT: My getting ready routine typically begins at 7 am with a glass of water. After that, I shower, cleanse my face, brush my teeth, and wash my hair. I prefer to start with my haircare routine before moving on to skincare or makeup. Following skincare and sunscreen application, I opt for lightweight makeup, usually using cushion foundation, blush, and lip tint for my day-to-day look.
On days when I don't have a heavy workload or early-morning photoshoot, I enjoy starting my day by reading light graphic novels/comics or playing games on my Nintendo Switch before heading out.
RR: Do you have a special hack/tip in your routine?
MT: My beauty hack is that I always blend everything with my hands, using my fingers. It’s quick, gives a natural look, and warms up the product for smoother application. It saves time and helps me achieve a polished look effortlessly.
RR: What is your go-to lipstick shade?
MT: Truthfully, I loooooove wearing bold red lipstick. But for my go-to day to day makeup routine, I prefer something calmer like Rollover Dewdrop’s Hibiscus & Palm Springs shade.
RR: What is your sun, moon, and rising sign?
MT: sun; taurus, moon: aquarius, rising: sagittarius
RR: Which “it-girl” movie character did you look up to the most?
MT: Lady Bird
RR: If your life was a movie, who do you think would play you? And why?
MT: If my life were a movie, I’d love Stanley Tucci to play me because he has crazy acting range, and I looooooove all his performances. I believe it would be a piece of cake for him to play a 25-year-old girl who still hasn't figured out her life yet. (Hehehe)
RR: What does your dream “day-off” activities look like?
MT: My dream day off would be spent somewhere out of town, starting with relaxing at the beach and enjoying the ocean. Then, I'd explore the nearby city, trying out delicious local food from different places. It would be a day of relaxation, exploration, and enjoying new flavours.
or…
An ideal day off would start with a leisurely morning at home with my cats. I'd watch some movies I've been wanting to see, and in the afternoon, I'd hang out with my friends to explore restaurants, trying out delicious drinks and dishes and enjoying each other's company.
RR: Who inspired you to be the person you are today?
MT: I draw inspiration from various sources, but what truly shapes who I am today is the curiosity and drive I had as a child. My love for learning and exploring new things fuels my journey and shapes my identity. Curiosity didn't kill the cat, I guess 🤓
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