Oliver

The inspiration for this photo came from capturing the essence of Hong Kong people and their stories. This photo offers an authentic glimpse into life in Pok Fu Lam Village, capturing the essence of its people and environment. The inclusion of the shopkeeper, with his weathered face and curious gaze, adds a personal touch that invites viewers to connect with the community. His presence conveys a story of resilience and adaptation, distinguishing this image from those that focus solely on the physical landscape. The shopkeeper embodies the enduring spirit of traditional communities, representing a lifetime of hard work and deep-rooted attachment to his trade. His facial expression is one of grumpy but curious with a slight weariness. His eyes hold a gentle gaze, but also that fact I was caught taking the photo. The lines etched on his face tell of the passage of time and the challenges he has faced, yet there's a sense of resilience and calm that shines through. This highlights the importance of preserving human connections amid rapid urbanization, emphasizing the value of personal stories in an ever-changing world. The photograph was taken without disrupting his work although it looks like I was caught taking the picture. I was also respectful to what he was doing and didn’t take the photo in a way that portrayed him in a negative or exploitative way (Ethics of Street Photography, 2021). In conclusion, this photo not only captures a moment in the daily life of Pok Fu Lam Village but also the strength and character of its people. The image shows how fast changes are being made in Hong Kong, reminding us that behind every place, there are real people, making the city’s culture deeping and more meaningful.

This photo was taken in a public bathroom in Hong Kong, and it really shows a cool side of the city that many people don’t notice. The lights on the ceiling are arranged in a very neat and symmetrical way, and they look like modern art. The mirror along the sink doubles the space and the lights, making it look like the lights go on forever. What my photo shows is that reflections are endless. This suggests that everything will always be seen in a different way because everyone sees things uniquely. The mirror doesn’t just copy the image, it makes you think about how many different ways one thing can be viewed. The message in the photo is about finding beauty in everyday places, like a bathroom, and how simple things can be interesting if you look closely. Hong Kong’s charm is shown through the modern design and the energy in the space. I was inspired by photographers who find art in normal life. To keep my photo ethically appropriate, I made sure that no one else was in the room and I also got his consent, so I didn’t invade his privacy or the public space. I also tried to not show people’s faces clearly or make anyone uncomfortable (D.Giannatti, 2023) . My main focus was on the reflection in the mirror and the space, the lights, and the reflection to tell the story of my picture.  In conclusion, this photo highlights how everyday places can hold unexpected beauty and meaning when seen from a new perspective. The use of reflection and symmetry not only creates a visually striking image but also encourages viewers to think about the endless ways we can interpret the world around us.