World Photography Day: Hong Kong-based photographers and their favourite shoot destinations
Aug 19, 2024
Happy World Photography Day! Hong Kong is a photographer’s dream with its diverse scenery and photography talents. As the globe celebrates this timeliness of art and storytelling, Abby Li speaks to 5 Hong Kong-based photographers on their favourite spots in town and their go-to equipment
David Cheng | @davidchengg
Where did your photography journey begin?
I bought my first camera more than 15 years ago. I work as a full-time photographer. I work for commercial shooting sometimes, but my favourite type of shooting is landscape shooting.
What are your must-have essentials when you take photos?
Camera of course! Other than the hardware I believe the most important element would be the passion for photography. Other than passion, I would say it is also important to accept failures, as you can’t guarantee your photos will always be what you want or imagine. I always take tons of shots just for a perfect angle.
What tips would you give to young photographers?
Cameras and lenses are just tools for photography. It is not a must to chase for the most expensive tools as it might not help in shooting. Passion and creativity are much more important than the tools. If you really love shooting I would not suggest turning it into your career, since it might probably reduce your passion towards it. I myself am also still learning to strike a balance between shooting as a career and as a hobby, but I believe I am getting close!
Where is your favourite spot to shoot in Hong Kong?
My favourite spot is the seaside of Tsuen Wan West, taking a shot of Tsing Ma Bridge during sunset. The scene would only show up for a short period in early November every year!
Wilson Lee | @leemaishun
Where did your photography journey begin?
I began my journey into photography during my high school years in the UK. My initial inspiration was drawn from the clean and airy aesthetic of Japanese analogue photography, which sparked my passion for image creation. I view photography as a personal lens through which to observe the world, aiming to capture life’s beautiful moments—whether they occur on the streets, in the nuances of a portrait, or across expansive landscapes. I don’t limit myself to one genre of photography; instead, I cherish the ongoing joy and discovery this art brings to my life.
What are your must-have essentials when you take photos?
When it comes to my photography essentials, the AirPods Pro tops the list. While some might argue that street photography requires full immersion in the environment, I find that listening to music helps me shift into a different mood, enhancing my creative expression. This preference is quite personal though. Beyond that, I prefer to travel light. Generally, I avoid carrying a bag and instead opt to sling one or two cameras over my shoulder. Being unencumbered not only allows for greater mobility but also significantly enhances the creativity of my compositions. The freedom to move effortlessly plays a crucial role in capturing compelling images.
What tips would you give to young photographers?
I believe the key lies in remaining eager and humble. It’s crucial not to be complacent, but instead to continuously seek improvement. A humble mindset is essential for accepting feedback and learning from others, including the great legends of photography. Equally important is to enjoy the moment and focus on doing what you love; this passion is what truly drives and sustains our creative spirit.
Where is your favourite spot to shoot in Hong Kong?
When shooting in Hong Kong, I strive to evoke the city’s nostalgic elements. My favorite locations include Sai Ying Pun and Star Ferry. Sai Ying Pun holds a special place in my heart, having been a significant part of my childhood. Returning there to photograph always evokes strong emotions. The slope from Bonham Road down to Water Street adds a dynamic element to my images. Meanwhile, the Star Ferry is quintessentially Hong Kong. Crossing Victoria Harbour on the ferry, one can truly feel the essence of old Hong Kong.
Keris Cheng | @lemonadebyke
Where did your photography journey begin?
To briefly introduce myself, my name is Keris and I’m a designer but a passionate photographer in my free time. I first picked up a camera around my teenage years, starting with a simple point-and-shoot camera. It wasn’t until I took design courses that I discovered the joy of film photography. Since then, I’ve continued exploring both digital and film photography, focusing mainly on street scenes, landscapes, and lifestyle shots. However, it was during the start of the pandemic around three years ago that I really started to take photography more seriously. At that time, I found myself questioning why I would only take photos while travelling, but not pay close attention to the city I live in. From that point on, I began to explore various subjects and themes in my photography.
What are your must-have essentials when you take photos?
In terms of my photography essentials, I primarily use a Sony A7III camera and select lenses and filters depending on the shooting location and weather conditions. I always make sure to have backup batteries and cleaning supplies on hand as well.
What tips would you give to young photographers?
For aspiring photographers, I would encourage them to maintain a curious mindset, stay passionate about their craft, and be willing to experiment with new techniques and styles. Photography is a continuous learning process, and I believe embracing that journey is key to growth and improvement.
Where is your favourite spot to shoot in Hong Kong?
As for my favourite shooting spot in Hong Kong, I’ve been drawn to the Central and Sheung Wan areas recently. The rich blend of towering skyscrapers and historic streets creates a visually captivating environment. I also enjoy taking a tram ride to explore the scenic views and experiencing the vibrant energy of Mong Kok at night.
Also see: #legendchats: Capturing the power of photography
Hilary Chan | @misshilarychan
Where did your photography journey begin?
I am a portrait and wedding photographer based in Hong Kong. I specialise in pre-wedding, weddings, and boudoir photography. I have over 12 years of experience shooting women, creating timeless portraits for clients to treasure. I love making women feel beautiful and bringing out the best of them, also capturing the love, emotions and connections in couples and families.
What are your must-have essentials when you take photos?
Gentleness, elegance, and self-love vibes. I believe these are more important than any cameras or equipment. I believe in storytelling with emotions and in the perspective of love and self-love, and the real beauty comes from within. These qualities help empower women and make them feel their best, making them feel loved and cherished. You can never capture emotions that are not truly there in front of you. Only when my clients trust me and connect with me, I can capture the best images. This is also why photo shoots are such a powerful, life-changing, and connecting experience. A lot of moments in your life only happen once, like a wedding or a pregnancy, so it’s important to capture the best of it when you can.
What tips would you give to young photographers?
Explore and travel. Having different perspectives and understanding of the world around us makes our work meaningful. Shoot different genres of photography, from events, portraits, and scenery, to explore and learn from different photographers, artists, creators, or even other industries. Your life experience and insights will turn into your own style eventually when you have your unique voice. For example, I minored in French in my university degree which allowed me to live in Paris for a year, and that lifestyle experience indulging in beauty and art had helped me shape my brand and photography aesthetics. It is no wonder a lot of artists loved living in Paris. I still travel to new places every year to explore and gain new experiences.
Where is your favourite spot to shoot in Hong Kong?
A beach in Lantau. Light is one of the most important qualities when it comes to photographs. I love using natural light when possible, and the sunset at the beach has the softest and warmest light that wraps around my subject to create a very flattering portrait. I recommend going in the winter in Hong Kong, as the winter light is much more soft and beautiful. In the summer, I enjoy shooting at my studio, the lighting is gorgeous and I love shooting clean, simple, and timeless portraits.
Dixon Kwan | @dixonkwan
Where did your photography journey begin?
I’m Dixon Kwan from Hong Kong and I am a freelance photographer. Photography has been a passion of mine and I enjoy exploring new places and shooting. In the beginning, I was inspired by a lot of talented creators I saw on IG and during Covid it has encouraged me to explore places in HK that I would not have explored. Rediscovering the beauty of HK is actually quite exciting. Along the journey I have met photographers from different countries and learning about their cultures and being able to explore the city together with new perspectives is really refreshing.
What are your must-have essentials when you take photos?
IPhone. They say the best camera is the one you have at all times. Besides I can record videos and behind the scenes from the phone which adds to the storytelling.
What tips would you give to young photographers?
My advice is to go out and shoot. There is no shortcut but to practice, whether it is how to use the camera, having a photography eye or instincts. It all comes with practice. Go find some friends and shoot together, it will add to the fun.
Where is your favourite spot to shoot in Hong Kong?
My favourite spot to shoot is the Yau Tsim Wong area. There is so much history, neons and so much going on. There is always something to shoot.