Photography has the incredible ability to preserve moments, communicate emotions, and tell stories that words often cannot. In this edition of Behind the Lens, we’re featuring Dennis Tsang, a professional commercial photographer from Canada whose passion for photography began over three decades ago with a simple gift from his father.
From commercial assignments and portraits to sports, events, and street photography, Dennis has dedicated his career to creating meaningful visual stories while also inspiring others through workshops, exhibitions, radio interviews, and YouTube.
If you’re looking for inspiration from an experienced photographer who believes in patience, observation, and understanding your subject, you’ll enjoy Dennis’s story.
Meet Dennis Tsang
Dennis describes himself as a professional commercial photographer whose mission goes beyond simply taking beautiful photographs.
His work focuses on documenting life, connecting people through visual storytelling, and communicating meaningful messages through imagery.
Alongside his photography business, Dennis is passionate about educating others. He regularly shares his knowledge through photography exhibitions, radio interviews, workshops, and online content, helping aspiring photographers improve their skills and appreciation for the craft.
Portfolio: https://photo-on-net.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dennis.tsang.photo/
The Camera That Started Everything
Every photographer has a story about how their journey began.
For Dennis, it started with something deeply personal.
More than 30 years ago, his father handed down a Nikon FE paired with a 35mm lens. That simple act sparked a lifelong passion for photography and ultimately shaped the professional photographer he is today.
Sometimes, one camera is all it takes to change someone’s life.
Current Camera Gear
Like many professional photographers, Dennis uses different systems depending on the assignment.
His current equipment includes:
- Nikon D850
- Canon EOS R5
- Canon EOS R6 Mark III
When it comes to lenses, two stand out as his favorites:
- 35mm prime lens – perfect for storytelling and street photography
- 24-105mm zoom lens – a versatile choice for commercial work, portraits, and events
This combination allows Dennis to adapt quickly while maintaining excellent image quality across different photography genres.
Why Street Photography Will Always Be Special
Although Dennis photographs commercial projects, portraits, sporting events, and corporate assignments, if he had to choose only one genre for the rest of his life, the answer would be easy:
Street photography.
Street photography offers endless opportunities to capture genuine human moments, unexpected interactions, and the ever-changing rhythm of everyday life.
For Dennis, the streets are where authentic stories naturally unfold.
Photography Is About Communicating Before Pressing the Shutter
One insight Dennis shared is how he approaches portrait photography.
Before taking a single photograph, he makes sure his subject understands what is about to happen.
He explains his creative vision, discusses the concept, and helps people feel comfortable before the session begins.
This communication builds trust and confidence, allowing subjects to relax naturally in front of the camera. The result is often more authentic expressions and stronger portraits.
Capturing Moments That Tell a Story
When asked what photography feels like from behind the camera, Dennis describes it as capturing the changing flow of a moment while creating meaningful visual lines that communicate something to the viewer.
Rather than simply documenting a scene, he looks for moments that express movement, emotion, and purpose.
For Dennis, every photograph should communicate something immediately.
A Favorite Photograph
Choosing just one favorite image isn’t easy after decades behind the camera.
However, Dennis points to one of his favorite photographs from this year as a standout piece in his collection.
Like many memorable images, it represents careful observation, patience, and being ready when everything comes together at exactly the right moment.
Finding Beauty Through Observation
When creative inspiration becomes difficult to find, Dennis doesn’t force it.
Instead, he prefers to slow down.
His advice is simple:
- Observe how light changes.
- Watch the environment.
- Wait for the right moment.
- Discover a stronger angle.
- Look for elements others may overlook.
Patience often rewards photographers with photographs that cannot be planned.
Revealing the Beauty in Every Subject
Dennis believes that one of a photographer’s responsibilities is to reveal the beauty of every subject.
Whether photographing a person, an event, or a street scene, his goal is to help viewers appreciate details they may have otherwise missed.
Photography becomes a way of introducing people to a different perspective of the world around them.
Seeing the World Differently
After years of working professionally, Dennis believes photographers must develop two essential skills:
- Be quick enough to react.
- Know your camera so well that operating it becomes second nature.
Moments appear and disappear within seconds.
When your camera feels like an extension of yourself, you’re less likely to miss those once-in-a-lifetime photographs.
What Dennis Wants Viewers to Feel
Every photographer hopes their work leaves an impression.
For Dennis, success is simple.
He wants viewers to instantly understand the subject of the photograph the moment they see it.
Strong photography should communicate clearly without needing explanation.
Advice for New Photographers
Dennis’s photography journey began with a single camera from his father, proving that expensive equipment isn’t where great photography starts.
His philosophy encourages photographers to:
- Learn your camera thoroughly.
- Practice consistently.
- Observe patiently.
- Wait for the right moment instead of rushing.
- Focus on communicating your subject clearly.
Photography isn’t only about pressing the shutter—it’s about understanding the story unfolding in front of you.
Final Thoughts
Dennis Tsang’s career reminds us that photography is about much more than technical skills. It’s about observation, communication, patience, and storytelling.
Whether he’s photographing commercial assignments, capturing life on the streets, teaching workshops, or inspiring others through exhibitions and online content, Dennis continues to use photography as a universal language that connects people.
His journey—from receiving a Nikon FE from his father to becoming an accomplished commercial photographer—is proof that passion, curiosity, and dedication can transform a simple hobby into a lifelong career.
We’d like to thank Dennis for sharing his story with the KLPhotoholic community, and we look forward to seeing where his photography journey leads next.
Connect with Dennis Tsang
🌐 Website: https://photo-on-net.com/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dennis.tsang.photo/
Author: Kl Photoholic
I am Roman Onillon, a professional photographer hailing from France and now based in Kuala Lumpur. My work is focused on elevating photography through a unique perspective and a deep attention to detail that brings life to landscapes, events, and portraits.