A Year Through Hisham’s Lens

When Hisham Firdaus first walked into AICREATIVV on 11th September 2024, he wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. A fresh graduate still figuring out his next steps, he described the year that followed as “a whirl of activities — ups, downs, but always pushing and improving.”

From the start, Hisham Firdaus quickly found himself behind the camera, capturing moments and projects that would define both his growth and AICREATIVV’s visual storytelling.

Finding His Footing

Hisham’s first big test came with the Tenun project, where he stepped up as the main photographer. The brief was ambitious: photos that looked cinematic yet polished enough to feel stock-photo ready. For someone still finding his rhythm, it was a steep climb. “I got the better of it by working with what we had and understanding cinematic looks,” he shared. The project became a crash course in adapting quickly and trusting his eye.

Soon after, he took on his first product photography project with Potato Habit’s hashbrown launch. Unlike Tenun’s grand visuals, this one demanded precision and clarity to make the product shine. When both the team and client responded with enthusiasm, it was a turning point. “When they’re happy with what I produced, I’m happy.”

Together, these projects marked the spectrum of Hisham Firdaus’ growth, from cinematic storytelling to product-focused detail; proving he could adapt, deliver, and carve out his place in the team.

From Quiet Observer to Team Player

Hisham Firdaus admits his biggest personal challenge wasn’t technical, but cultural. As someone naturally reserved, he worried about fitting into AICREATIVV’s famously loud and chaotic team dynamic.

“I overcame it by just mingling and understanding the team more. I let loose a bit after awhile and was able to be just me.”

And the team noticed. Whether directing during Potato Habit’s video shoots — a role far outside his usual comfort zone — or supporting others with lighting setups, Hisham learned to trust his instincts and lean on the people around him. “The team supported me and helped me prepare beforehand. They’d joke, ‘Hisham is directing?! Okay let’s gooo.’ That kind of support really stuck with me.”

Hisham Firdaus, in his unnatural habitat and playing a supporting role.

Growth in Unexpected Places

Over the past year, Hisham Firdaus’ photography hasn’t just evolved in skill but in perspective. “The team adds more perspective to it. I wouldn’t say my style has changed, but I’ve definitely become more adaptable — working with different styles, building confidence, and improving my interpersonal skills.”

Even outside of photography, growth has been a recurring theme. From brisk walks to self-reflection, Hisham Firdaus has been focusing on becoming “a healthier and better version” of himself.

His advice to his past self?

“It’s okay to let loose a bit and be yourself.”

Looking Ahead

As he steps into his second year at AICREATIVV, Hisham expects more exposure to client-facing situations and even opportunities in project management. While he’s unsure of what exactly is ahead, he knows he wants to continue creating work that his team and clients can be proud of.

A dream project? A photo series that involves everyone at AICREATIVV, not just as subjects, but as contributors to a piece that celebrates the whole team.

“Kaizen! Let’s go!” he says, summing up the culture that has defined his first year. And with one year already under his belt, it’s clear Hisham Firdaus’ journey at AICREATIVV is only just beginning.