Interview
Chih Hsuan Hung
Taiwan
Chih Hsuan Hung, also known as Jerry, was born and raised in his home country before moving to Canada. A self-taught photographer, he acquired his skills through books, exhibitions, videos, and interactions with fellow photographers.
1 Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
While my passport name is Chih Hsuan Hung, you could just call me Jerry. I was born and raised in Taiwan, but have lived in Canada for a few years.
2 Where did you study photography?
I am a self-taught photographer who pick up my knowledge of photography from a variety of media like books, exhibitions, videos, and from the ones I have met in life.
3 Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
My first shot should be a random moment with my parents with a CCD or film when I was a kid.
4 What equipment do you use?
I currently shoot with a Sony A7m4 with either a Sony 16-35mm F2.8 GMii, a Sony 70-200mm F2.8 GMii, or a Sony 50mm F1.4 GM
5 What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
It was when someone showed me how firmly one could believe in my works and photos when I self-questioned myself.
6 What inspires your unique storytelling?
For me, my university works might play a role in my style of storytelling in photography. As someone who graduated with a bachelor of communication degree, my academic works often emphasizes on the contrast between two entities or expressions, such as time and space; movement and stillness; modern and historic; rise and falls; bold and slim, etc. These elements has transferred to my style of story-telling in the photography realm.
7 What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
magical, subtle, fine
8 Congratulations! As the winner of the MUSE Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
Being recognized by the MUSE Photography Awards really means a lot to me. I'd like to thank everyone who participates in the IAA events for putting all the works in and all the juries for recognizing my works. Moreover, I'd like to thank IAA for creating this platform so that people from all around the world get an opportunity to see all these amazing works.
9 Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the MUSE Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
like I have answered in Q6, I tend to tell a story of contrast in when I take photos, whether it is the contrast between time and space; the contrast between man-made or nature or the contrast between solitude and crowdedness
10 How has winning an award developed your career?
I might consider becoming a professional photographer after the winning. I guess it's life changing to a certain degree.
11 Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Linksphotograph Macus Ong Brian Pham
12 What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
start taking photos!
13 What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
Start taking photos. Think outside the box and try out all different techniques. Put in the work and believe in yourself.
14 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
I believe in my hard works but I am also willing to learn from the advices and critics I get.
15 Which THREE (3) friends/peers would you nominate to participate in the next MUSE Photography Awards?
Macus Ong Brian Pham
16 Anything else you would like to add to the interview?
For me, sometimes it is to wait for a moment, and for other times it's to chase for a moment. However, no matter which it is, as photographers we capture the very unique moments to share with the world.
