Photography for Art & Design
Tsai & Yoshikawa x Hermès: Lighthearted
I had a festive start of the year - with Artists Tsai & Yoshikawa’s festive design for luxury fashion brand Hermès’ UK and Ireland stores. They created a series of artistic window displays and in-store installations to celebrate Hermès' 2022 theme, 'Lighthearted!'
I photographed their work at the Bond Street and Sloane Street stores, capturing the art as well as the character of the surrounding streets and historic buildings. While reflections in the store windows posed a challenge, I managed to work around them, and of course, the retouching played a part! This allowed me to showcase not only the installations but also the unique blend of art and the vibrant urban environment.
I've been collaborating with the artists since 2015, capturing the vibrancy and creativity of their work through film and photography. Documenting their colourful and expressive art has been a rewarding journey, filled with inspiration. It's been a pleasure to witness their artistic growth and evolving styles, which has not only honed my skills but also deepened my appreciation for their art!
The Ministry of Culture of Taiwan - Cultural Events in the UK
Two standout moments from my projects with the Ministry of Culture of Taiwan in the UK were creating documentary videos that captured the brilliance of Taiwanese artists at the Liverpool Biennale 2023 and the group exhibition Li Yuan-Chia and Friends at Kettle's Yard. These projects didn’t just spotlight amazing art—they brought Taiwan’s vibrant cultural stories centre stage, sparking conversations across the international art scene.'
As a documentary photographer here, my work went beyond simply capturing the artworks; it delved into the stories, processes, and personal journeys behind them. I aimed to reveal the artists' thoughts, inspirations, and the profound significance of bringing such culturally rich pieces to an international stage. These documentaries are essential in providing context and depth to art exhibitions, helping audiences connect with the cultural and personal narratives that shape the art. Beyond the exhibitions, they contribute to a broader dialogue about culture in global art forums, enriching the understanding and appreciation of diverse artistic traditions.
Ngialibalibade – to the Lost Myth, Eleng Luluan, Liverpool Biennale 2023
Eleng Luluan, an Indigenous artist from Taiwan's Rukai tribe, explores themes of Indigenous identity, cultural memory, and the preservation of her people's myths. In her piece Ngialibalibade ("to the Lost Myth"), she reclaims fading Rukai narratives endangered by modernity, colonisation, and globalisation. By weaving traditional motifs into contemporary art, Luluan revitalises these myths, ensuring their visibility and relevance in the global art scene.
Li Yuan-Chia and Friends, Kettle’s Yard, Oxford
The exhibition at Kettle’s Yard celebrates the life and work of Li Yuan-Chia, a pioneering artist, poet, and curator who was influential in the UK art scene during the mid-20th century. The exhibition explores Li’s innovative approach to abstraction, his use of diverse media, and his role in fostering artistic communities, particularly in the UK. Alongside his work, the show highlights the collaborative relationships he cultivated with other artists, showcasing the dynamic exchange of ideas that shaped his creative journey.
The New Dorothy Circus Gallery
I was thrilled to have the chance to photograph the newly renovated Dorothy Circus Gallery, capturing its fresh look and the new artwork on display. My role as a photographer involved documenting the gallery's interior, decor, and the unique atmosphere that has been meticulously crafted.
I photographed the various elements that define the gallery's updated space, paying close attention to the interplay of setting and lighting. This included capturing the elegant decor, the positioning of artwork, and the intricate details that contribute to the gallery's distinctive aesthetic. The artwork itself was a focal point, and I worked to highlight the textures, colours, and emotions conveyed through each piece. The lighting within the gallery played a crucial role in enhancing the visual experience, and I carefully adjusted my shots to showcase how the lighting design accentuated the artworks and overall ambiance.
From wide-angle shots that provide an overview of the entire space to close-ups that capture the finer details of the decor and artworks, my photographs aim to provide a comprehensive visual narrative of the gallery's transformation. The images not only document the gallery's new face but also celebrate the artistry and thoughtfulness behind its design. They serve as a visual journey through the gallery, inviting viewers to appreciate the intricate interplay between art and environment in this new space.
Corporate Event Photography
Bridging & Commercial Awards 2023
I was honoured to photograph the prestigious B&C Awards 2023, organised by the Medianett Publishing. Known for its extravagant themes, this year's event embraced a vibrant Rio-Carnival atmosphere, setting a lively and colourful tone for the evening.
As the photographer, I captured the evening's dynamic energy, starting with an electrifying performance by passistas and drummers, who infused the venue with the infectious rhythm of carnival. The excitement continued with the awards ceremony, where distinguished guests were recognised for their achievements – this is when I got to captured the excitement from the winners as well as the posed shots of winners with the award in their hands. The night culminated in an unforgettable after-party, with attendees joyfully dancing and celebrating in true carnival spirit. It was a privilege to document these moments, from the spectacular performances to the joyous celebrations, creating a visual narrative of an extraordinary event.
The Royal Society, the world's oldest scientific academy still in operation, is home to an awe-inspiring collection that spans centuries of scientific achievement. Their library is a vault of rare and unique items, each one a milestone in the grand narrative of scientific progress.
I had the thrilling opportunity to dive into the heart of The Royal Society’s remarkable collection and their meticulous restoration work. From Martha Gerrish’s mesmerizing drawing of a sundog to other priceless artifacts, each piece is a treasure trove of scientific marvels and historical intrigue.
But the excitement doesn’t stop at their collection. The Royal Society is also famous for its dynamic public events that make science come alive. Whether it's unravelling ‘Fake, Forgeries, Misinformation’ or diving into ‘The Forensics,’ their events are as engaging as they are enlightening. The annual summer events and soirées are a blend of education, scholarly discussion and sophisticated socialising, bringing together enthusiasts and experts in style.
This year, I’ve had the privilege of working extensively with The Royal Society and capture the vibrant pulse of their activities. From high-energy conferences and thought-provoking lectures to elegant soirées and interactive exhibitions, documenting these moments has been an exhilarating journey. Each event showcases The Royal Society’s role in advancing knowledge and sparking curiosity, all while blending serious science with a touch of fun and flair.
Go Cardless and Charge Bee’s Axe Throwing Networking Event
I had the opportunity to document a unique networking event in Whistle Punks Urban Axe Throwing London, organised by GoCardless and Chargebee. My role was to capture the vibrant atmosphere and diverse activities throughout the evening.
The event started with drinks and casual networking, creating a relaxed atmosphere for attendees to connect and exchange ideas. I captured candid exchanges and lively conversations, highlighting the evening's informal vibe. A key moment was the talks by industry leaders from Pret a Manger and Butternut, where I focused on the speakers' expressions and the audience's engagement, showcasing the insightful exchange of knowledge. The event then transitioned to axe throwing, adding a fun and unconventional twist, followed by pizza and more drinks, allowing attendees to continue networking in a relaxed setting.
It was an enjoyable experience to document such a dynamic event, blending professional discussions with unique and entertaining activities. My goal was to authentically capture the energy and essence of the evening, ensuring that every moment, from the insightful panel to the laughter during axe throwing, was well-documented.
PA Housing Groundbreaking Ceremony
I recently had the pleasure of covering a truly exciting event—the start of PA Housing's West London regeneration scheme in Southall. As the press photographer, my job was to capture the energy and significance of this groundbreaking moment—literally!
The day was all about big plans and even bigger machines. For the ceremonial groundbreaking, I got creative, lining up two excavators symmetrically in the background. With their booms stretched high and buckets raised, they perfectly framed the key players. It was like these giant machines were giving a salute to the future!
With the construction signboard and urban landscape in the mix, the setting was a perfect blend of ambition and progress. The final images didn’t just capture a milestone—they told a story of transformation, showing how Southall is on the brink of something great.
Professional Portraits
I have a deep passion for portrait photography and take great satisfaction in my clients' appreciation of my skills and the value of professional portraits. Unlike many modern commodities, a professional portrait is a meaningful investment. Clients aren't just receiving photos; they're investing in an experience that captures lasting memories. Whether it's for a business profile, a significant milestone like graduation, yearly family or company Christmas cards, or simply documenting oneself at a particular moment in time, these portraits are something to cherish and to be displayed proudly.
As a portrait photographer, I always begin by discussing the client's vision and ideas. If necessary, I create a moodboard to ensure we're aligned on the visual concept. This step is crucial because our interpretations of terms like "natural" might differ. Using reference images to communicate the desired style, aesthetic, and even specific poses is the most straightforward and efficient way to achieve a shared understanding. This process helps us clarify expectations and ensures that the final photographs accurately reflect the client's vision before the session.
During the portrait shoot, I prioritise creating a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere to help my clients feel at ease. This approach allows their natural personality to shine through, resulting in more authentic and engaging portraits. After the session, I carefully retouch the photos, paying close attention to the client's specific preferences and requirements. This includes adjusting details like lighting, colour balance, and any desired enhancements to ensure the final images reflect their vision while maintaining a polished and professional finish.
I find joy not only in taking photos, but also in the conversations I have with clients. Recently, discussions about artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on photography have come up frequently. I believe that while AI can be a valuable tool for assisting photographers in certain technical aspects, it cannot replicate the nuanced creativity and emotional connection that human photographers bring to portraiture. Instead of replacing us, I see AI as enhancing our capabilities and efficiency, allowing for even more creative possibilities. What are your thoughts on this?
Special Moments
Elena & David's Wedding
Last year, Elena hired me to take her portraits, and this year she invited me to photograph her wedding at the stunning art-deco Wandsworth Town Hall. The venue's elegant architecture provided a perfect backdrop for the ceremony and the couple shots. As the wedding photographer, I focused on documenting every detail, from the bride's expressions and the couple's exchanged vows to the laughter and joy of the guests.
The celebration continued at a charming restaurant in Clapham - Upstairs, tastefully adorned with elegant flower arrangements that reflected Elena's refined taste. My role was to capture the intimate and heartfelt moments during the lunch celebration, including the couple's interactions, the toasts, and the subtle details of the beautiful décor. It was a joy to capture these moments, from the grand setting of the town hall to the warm and beautifully decorated lunch. The day perfectly encapsulated the couple's unique charm and style, and it was a privilege to document such a special occasion.
Christmas Family Shoot
On Christmas Day, I had the pleasure of photographing a lovely family's celebration in their home in Kensington. The session beautifully captured the festive atmosphere of their home, adorned with elegant Christmas decor. I documented the joy of the family as they opened presents, the laughter and fun of playing games together, and the warm holiday spirit.
We also took various group family photos, preserving precious memories of everyone gathered together—especially since grandma rarely gets to join the kids! It was a delightful experience to capture these moments of togetherness and celebration, creating a collection of images that will be cherished for years to come.
Not only did I begin 2023 with a festive Hermès installation shoot for artists Tsai & Yoshikawa, but I also had the privilege of ending the year with this joyful family Christmas shoot. Thank you for reading my blog. I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and a very happy new year! 😊
