Tsung Yu Hsieh
1. Congratulations on winning in the New York Photography Awards! Can you share a little about yourself, what inspired you to pursue photography, and how has your journey evolved since your first shot?
I'm a visual creator from Taiwan, often working between still life, space, and installation.
I first picked up a camera for films and music videos, but gradually fell in love with how still photography can hold emotion and concept more quietly.
Over time, my work has shifted from documentary to design, from storytelling to structure—but always in search of rhythm and perception within the frame.
2. Can you share the story or inspiration behind your award-winning piece? How does winning this award make you feel about your journey in photography?
This series was created for an ASUS Zenbook campaign.
Before the shoot, our team explored how ideas like "lightness," "fun," and "romance" could be translated into visual symbols. It was a truly collaborative and creatively open process—and I’m proud of the result.
I’ve always believed that when a work carries both beauty and thought, it can go beyond commerce and be truly seen.
3. How do you decide which photo to submit for a competition?
After years of working professionally, I’ve grown used to pleasing others. But when a project also speaks to me—when I can’t stop looking back at it—I want to share it with the world.
4. What first made you pick up a camera?
I first picked up a camera to document things. But it was at 17 that I truly started making images. I still have those photos—and the feeling they gave me.
5. What’s your favorite type of photography, and why do you love it?
I’m drawn to the strange, the specific, or the unexpectedly funny. Images I can stare at for a long time—those are the ones that stay with me.
6. What’s your go-to camera setup, and why does it work best for your projects? What’s your favorite feature?
I often use Sony—it’s light, fast, and intuitive. Perfect for the way I move through space and frame with precision.
7. If someone looked at your work, what’s the one thing you’d want them to feel?
I hope people find the images fun, playful—even a little magical. If they smile, I’ve done my job.
8. What was the most challenging part of capturing your winning shot?
Every detail had to be deliberate—light, composition, props, even the direction of a shadow. One wrong decision could collapse the whole image. I’m lucky to have had a brilliant team that made it all work.
9. Is there a specific place or subject that inspires you the most?
Old convenience stores. They’re full of unexpected objects and beautiful little messes that spark ideas.
10. Who or what has been your biggest influence in photography?
Everyone I’ve met while living and working in Taiwan. Their words, gestures, and ways of seeing have shaped mine.
11. What message would you share to inspire photographers to participate in photography awards, and what advice would you give to help them excel in the competition?
If you truly believe your work is good—submit it. Behind every strong image is often a team. Winning isn’t just your moment—it’s theirs too.
12. What’s one piece of advice for someone just starting in photography?
Shoot what you love. Shoot often, look often. You’ll grow. Thinking and doing—always both.
13. What role do editing and post-processing play in your creative workflow?
If it’s too complex on set but simple in post—then edit it. I see post-production as a graceful form of adjustment.
14. How do you see technology, like AI, influencing the future of photography and your own approach?
AI won’t replace our point of view—it just speeds things up. It actually makes us more aware of what only humans can create. In an automated world, human feeling matters more.
15. If you could photograph anything or anyone in the world, what would it be?
I’d photograph all the interesting people, and all the things that make me go, “That’s weird—I like it.”
