Meet HUAHAN ZHANG | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with HUAHAN ZHANG and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi HUAHAN, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I consider the risk to be an inherent part of life, as we constantly encounter it when making choices. When it comes to my life and career, I believe that taking risks is essential. In the creative process, especially during the planning stage, I often face numerous risks and uncertainties. One approach I adopt is to proactively anticipate potential scenarios and devise corresponding strategies. In the face of urgent risks, I prioritize staying calm, analyzing the situation quickly, and generating multiple solutions. I perceive risk as synonymous with challenge and derive great enjoyment from the challenges I encounter.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As a photographer, what sets me apart from others is my unique perspective and the way I capture moments. I strive to tell stories through my photographs and evoke emotions in viewers. I focus on finding the details and emotions in everyday life and showcasing them in a way that resonates with people.

For example, I have a series of works called “Bind,” where I express my emotions and perspectives through my own childhood and adult life experiences and observations of the adult world.

This series captures my understanding and emotional expression of the adult world through photography. I explore various emotions, pressures, and challenges of finding balance and self-identity in the adult world. Through my lens, I aim to convey a unique perspective on complex relationships, responsibilities, and personal growth in adulthood.

The inspiration for the “Bind” series comes from my own life journey and observations of people around me. I employ creative composition, lighting, and symbols in these works to express my emotions and viewpoints. Through this series, I hope to evoke emotional responses in viewers and provoke their reflections and resonances with the complexities of adult life.

This series is significant to me as it serves as a channel for emotional expression and self-exploration. I am proud to convey my ideas and perspectives through photography in the “Bind” series. I aspire to inspire others and encourage them to contemplate the complexities and challenges of adult life, while also fostering empathy and understanding among the audience.

I am most proud of my ability to connect with my subjects and create a comfortable and relaxed environment during photoshoots. This allows me to capture genuine and authentic moments that reflect the true essence of the individuals or scenes I photograph.

For example, while creating the series “Trapped in the Garden,” I engaged in communication with the subjects to express the emotions of being trapped and in bondage that women often experience in their daily lives. We discussed our shared experiences as women, aiming to create a space where the subject felt psychologically at ease and comfortable expressing her emotions. This allowed for a deeper connection between the paintings of the face and the elements present in the garden, highlighting the pervasive presence of rules and restrictions in our lives.

Getting to where I am today professionally has been a journey filled with both challenges and rewarding experiences. It was not an easy path, as I faced obstacles such as fierce competition, self-doubt, and the constant need to evolve my skills. However, I overcame these challenges by staying committed to my craft, continuously learning and experimenting, and seeking feedback from trusted mentors and fellow photographers.

For example, in the series “Love’s Labyrinth,” I have experimented with new techniques by combining 3D modeling with photography to assist in expressing the theme of delving into the captivating yet perilous journey of a woman consumed by her quest for love. The work explores the delicate balance between devotion and obsession, depicting the emotional turmoil that can arise when love transforms into an all-consuming force. This piece serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities and potential dangers of love, as it evolves from a source of hope to a consuming love virus. I am thrilled by this endeavor and eager to continue learning and experimenting further.

Along the way, I have learned valuable lessons. One of the most important lessons is the significance of perseverance and resilience. It’s essential to keep pushing forward, even in the face of setbacks or failures. Every challenge is an opportunity for growth and learning. Genuine expression is also an important element of my photography.

In terms of my brand and story, I want the world to know that my photography is a reflection of my passion and dedication. I aim to create images that resonate with people, evoke emotions, and inspire them to see the world from a different perspective.

I also value the relationships I build with my clients. I believe in understanding their unique stories and capturing their moments in a way that is meaningful to them. It’s important to me that my photography not only represents my artistic vision but also serves as a cherished memory for those I work with.

Overall, my photography is a continuous journey of growth and self-expression. I am excited to explore new creative avenues, collaborate with diverse individuals, and make a positive impact through my art.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1: Start with a visit to the Getty Center, enjoying the stunning art collections and panoramic views of the city. In the evening, head to Grand Central Market to indulge in a variety of delicious food options.

Day 2: Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Chinatown, visiting unique shops and trying authentic Chinese cuisine. In the afternoon, visit The Broad Museum to appreciate contemporary art masterpieces.

Day 3: Take a trip to the iconic Griffith Observatory to enjoy breathtaking views of the city and explore the fascinating world of astronomy. Later, explore the trendy and artistic neighborhood of Silver Lake, known for its hip coffee shops, boutiques, and street art.

Day 4: Spend a day in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), exploring its diverse art collections. In the evening, catch a performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, renowned for its impressive architecture and world-class concerts.

Day 5: Visit the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre to soak up the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. In the evening, enjoy a live performance at the historic Troubadour or Roxy Theatre.

Day 6: Take a trip to the stunning Getty Villa in Malibu, known for its ancient art and beautiful gardens. Afterward, relax at one of the picturesque beaches along the coast, such as Santa Monica or Venice Beach.

Day 7: End the trip with a visit to the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens, where you can explore the breathtaking gardens and discover rare books and manuscripts. Finish the day with a memorable dinner at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my photography mentor, Shonagh Marshall. She played a significant role in nurturing my passion for this art form. Shonagh’s guidance and expertise have been invaluable to my growth as a photographer. She has consistently offered constructive criticism, encouraged me to explore new techniques, and supported me through the challenges I encountered.

I would also like to acknowledge the power of photography books and publications in expanding my horizons. Books like “The Decisive Moment” by Henri Cartier-Bresson and “On Photography” by Susan Sontag have provided profound insights and shaped my artistic perspective.

Lastly, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family and friends who have always supported and believed in me. Their unwavering encouragement has given me the confidence to pursue my photography career and explore new creative avenues.

Overall, my journey in photography has been enriched by the guidance of my mentor, impactful books, and the unwavering support of my loved ones. They all deserve credit and recognition for the role they have played in shaping my story.

Website: https://www.huahanzhang.com/people

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hzzzzh404/

Image Credits
Cassie Zeng-model Zhuoer He-model