Chan Chun Ming - in the streets of Hong Kong

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LFI.GALLERY PHOTOGRAPHER

25.06.2018

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Once Hong Kong, always Hong Kong: in just four years, the photographer Chan Chun Ming has already produced an enormous amount of pictures. In the following interview, he explains why he appreciates street photography, how he decides on his motifs, and where his favourite place in the metropolis is.

How did you start your photographic career?

My first contact with photography was in 1977. However, I was not very serious about it for over thirty years, until 2009, when I began to focus on bird photography. In mid 2014 my interest shifted to taking pictures of people in the streets, which is now known as ‘street photography’.

What is your approach to street photography?

I follow my gut instincts and feelings when capturing people and things in the streets. When I find an attractive scene with good lighting and shadows, I wait patiently for the right people to walk into my frame. I never ask permission from the people whose picture I take, as that would ruin their natural expressions.

What is it that fascinates you about street photography?

What fascinates me about street photography are the everyday people and, quite simply, all the little things that happen. The situations are always different and, therefore, inspiring – even in the urban setting where I’ve lived for over thirty years.

To me, street photography is the memory of and passion for life; because everything in our lives can disappear in a moment. With the help of photography I can retain some of my feelings, and express my point of view through my lens.

Do you have a favourite place in Hong Kong?

My favourite place is the Central District, because it’s an area full of urban and heritage architecture, of local and foreign people, with a broad variety of vehicles, and attractive lighting throughout every season of the year.

What defines a good picture for you? Do you have favourite subjects?

In my view, a good photograph doesn’t have to be artistic or esoteric. However, a good photo should contain emotions and passion. I believe that a photo without emotions is empty and meaningless.

All images on this page © Chan Chun Ming
Camera: Leica X Vario

Chan Chun Ming

Chan Chun Ming was born in China in 1958, and has been retired from a career in banking since 2014. He does not call himself a photographer, but an active photography lover. He considers street photography an activity where he can continue to learn his whole life long.

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Chan Chun Ming - in the streets of Hong Kong

LFI.GALLERY PHOTOGRAPHER

25.06.2018

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