For talented photographer Chen Yung Hua, the journey into photography began at the age of 7 or 8, inspired by a small digital camera gifted by her father. As she explored the streets of Taipei, she discovered the magic of preserving visual memories and cultivating a unique artistic voice.
Through her lens, she seeks to reveal the hidden beauty within her subjects, merging movement and emotion to create striking visuals. Her work is characterized by a thoughtful sense of distance, evoking a balanced aesthetic in both relationships and artistry.
In this interview, we delve into her creative process, unforgettable collaborations, and the contrasting inspirations drawn from Taipei’s nurturing embrace and Tokyo’s vibrant energy. Chen’s journey reflects a dedication to exploration, empathy, and the eternal quest for beauty in the everyday.
What initially sparked your interest in photography, and why did you choose it as your career?
Yung Hua: I became fascinated with photography around the age of 7 or 8. At that time, my father gave me a small digital camera, and we explored the streets and alleys of Taipei to take photos. As a child, I found it magical that the things I saw with my eyes could be captured and preserved through this little device. I also became obsessed with capturing perspectives that were uniquely mine, as if they were my own little secrets.
From that moment on, I followed in my father’s footsteps, imitating the way he observed the world. I was amazed by his aesthetic appreciation for fallen leaves and dried insects, and these impressions have deeply influenced me to this day.
Photography is such a captivating art—it allows us to preserve fleeting moments and make them eternal. Whether I’m casually documenting everyday life or shooting for work, I’m often mesmerized by these transient moments through the viewfinder, carefully waiting for the perfect perspective and atmosphere that belong solely to me. The fact that photography has become a part of my work excites me, and I feel like I can never take enough pictures.
What steps do you typically follow when creating a work or starting a new project?
Yung Hua: I draw inspiration from daily life or dreams to expand on different keywords, sometimes starting with music and colors. At times, it feels like I’m writing a script.
Among the women you’ve photographed, what kind of beauty and qualities do you aim to express through your lens?
Yung Hua: I hope to showcase a side of them that they have never noticed through my lens. Just like ballet, modern dance, and the poses of yoga, I aim to combine each person’s personality with their current emotions.
What is the central focus of your artistic creations, and is there a common message you strive to convey through your work?
Yung Hua: A sense of distance, the act of maintaining distance, is a message that I consistently convey in my work. Distance is a form of aesthetic; like all relationships, it achieves a certain balanced aesthetic at the right distance.
In your experience collaborating with major fashion magazines and brands, is there a particular instance that stands out to you?
Yung Hua: Once in Tokyo, I collaborated with Aoi Yamada on a personal photography project. We appreciated each other’s talents and artistry, which led to this collaboration. Many small moments left a deep impression on me and were full of significance. For instance, before the shoot, I visited a specimen shop and purchased several butterfly specimens. When I was checking out, the shop owner unexpectedly wished me success and good fortune.
On the day of the shoot, the sunlight filled the location I had chosen, as if it were divine lighting waiting for my creativity. Coincidentally, a friend was available that day to serve as my Japanese translator and photography assistant. Aoi perfectly interpreted the concept I wanted to convey, and I was captivated by her movements and the interplay of light. In just one hour, we completed three outfit changes. That series of photos still exudes energy today, constantly reminding me to move forward and supporting my creative journey.
Through your experiences traveling between Taipei and Tokyo, what different
meanings do these two cities hold for you?
Yung Hua: Taipei is like a motherly presence, full of love and acceptance, allowing me to be myself and stay grounded.
Tokyo, on the other hand, constantly provides me with inspiration and visual stimulation;
every corner is so beautiful that it captivates my attention.
What advice would you offer to individuals who aspire to establish their own business in
the fashion or art industry?
Yung Hua: Focus on yourself and seriously explore the things you love. Don’t limit yourself, but also remember to embrace love and empathy.
Focus on yourself and seriously explore the things you love.
