Hong Kong actor Chow Yun-fat, renowned for his iconic role in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, reveals another side of his artistry in a new photo exhibition titled Hong Kong Morning. The exhibition features 30 captivating images that blend nature, urban landscapes, and personal reflections, demonstrating Chow’s deep connection to Hong Kong and his evolving passion for photography.
The exhibition is divided into three sections: “Hong,” “Kong,” and “Morning.” The first, “Hong,” showcases Chow’s love for botanical photography, capturing the delicate beauty of flowers in various stages of bloom. “Kong” highlights early-morning scenes of Hong Kong’s Central business district, while “Morning” presents obscure “selfies” where Chow’s reflection is subtly captured in street mirrors.
Chow’s journey into photography began through his travels for acting. “Making movies brought me to different places, which is how I got into photography,” he explains. For Chow, photography has become as significant as his acting career, allowing him to capture the essence of the world around him.
Known for his down-to-earth nature, Chow is a familiar face in Hong Kong, often spotted in public spaces like wet markets and public transport. However, during his early morning photo shoots, he blends into the crowd, donning inconspicuous attire to look like any other passerby. This is evident in the “Morning” series, where Chow’s figure is seamlessly integrated into the surroundings.
His connection to Hong Kong is especially strong, as he reflects on his first job as a bellboy in Central. “My sentiments are not just with Central – they are with all of Hong Kong,” he says. Chow’s work is heavily inspired by American landscape photographer Ansel Adams, known for his use of light and shadow. Chow emulates this style by modifying his camera to create sharp focus on his subjects with soft, blurred backgrounds.
A highlight of the exhibition is Untitled, a striking photo of Victoria Harbour taken during a stormy late afternoon from the Harbour City car park. Chow’s keen eye for timing is evident in the image, where the bright lights of Hong Kong Island reflect off the water, creating a surreal, almost cinematic atmosphere. Chow recalls, “It’s all about timing,” explaining how he took over 300 photos before selecting the 30 featured in the exhibition.
With nearly 50 years of acting experience, Chow Yun-fat has embraced his new role as a photographer, capturing the soul of Hong Kong through his lens.
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