by Yvette Depaepe
Published the 6^th of August 2024

To Gu and Hongchao, photography began as a passionate hobby but has gradually provided them with a lifetime of enjoyment and fulfilment. It shaped both their personal lives and their perspectives. They consider photography as a way to communicate emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Photography has also led them to a broader exploration of different styles and techniques, from still life photography to landscape and other categories. This ongoing exploration keeps them motivated and continuously learning. They find joy in experimenting with new methods and pushing the boundaries of their creativity. Discover these artists behind their wonderful body of work.
 

'Desert Road to Sad Dune'

Dear Gu and Hongchao, first of all, I would like to thank you for taking the time to answer this questionnaire! 
To begin, please introduce yourself shortly and tell us more about you, your hobbies or other projects you are involved in.
First and foremost, we would like to extend our sincere gratitude to 1x for providing us with this interview opportunity. Thank you!
We are Gu and Hongchao, wife and husband team, residing in Ontario, Canada. Professionally, we are a chemist for a pharmaceutical company and a software engineer of IT technology and consulting firm, respectively. Beyond our careers, we share a love for travelling, swimming, fishing and enjoying music and films. Additionally, we have a shared passion for photography! Nowadays, we dedicate our annual vacations primarily to photography trips, capturing the beauty of the world through our lenses.

When and how did you start your photographic journey?
Our photographic journey began in the late months of 2020, during the global COVID-19 pandemic. Like many others, our usual activities and travel plans put on hold. This unexpected downtime gave us the opportunity to reflect on the things we loved and the passions we wanted to explore further.
Before the pandemic, we often felt frustrated by our inability to capture the beauty and essence of what we saw with our eyes. Whether it was a breathtaking landscape during our travels, or the simple beauty of everyday life, we longed to preserve these moments in a way that truly did them justice.
With the world at a standstill, we decided to turn this frustration into a creative outlet. We started experimenting with the cameras we had at home, at that time we were fortunate to register a workshop by Lydia Jacobs who is a very talented photographer, we learned still life and macro photography from her. Later on in order to deepen photographic knowledge, we enrolled in another a few photography training courses, which provided us with hands-on experience and invaluable feedback from seasoned professionals like as Henry Liu, Larry Deng and Bingo Z. We also joined photography communities where we could share our works, receive constructive suggestions, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. We practised different techniques, from still life, macro photography to landscape shots, and gradually refined our skills.
Photography became a way for us to stay connected to the beauty of the world during a challenging time, and it continues to be a significant part of our lives.

'Still life by iPhone'

'Whisper under flower'

For many of us photography is either a hobby or a way of life. How would you define your relationship with photography?
For us, photography began as a passionate hobby but has gradually provided us with a lifetime of enjoyment and fulfilment.
The journey with photography has been a transformative experience, shaping both our personal lives and our perspectives. We began to see photography not just as a means of capturing moments but as a way to communicate our emotions, thoughts, and experiences. Each photograph became a reflection of our personal journey and our evolving view of the world.
Photography has also led us to a broader exploration of different styles and techniques, from still life photography to landscape and other categories. This ongoing exploration keeps us motivated and continuously learning. We find joy in experimenting with new methods and pushing the boundaries of our creativity.
Moreover, photography has also given us the opportunity to connect with a wider community of photographers, gaining inspiration and feedback that further fuels our passion. We are looking forward to the countless moments and stories that photography will continue to bring into our lives.

'Mountains In Rosy Glow'

'Val Di Funes'

What would be the most important experience so far that has influenced your steps in photography?
The most important experience that has significantly influenced our steps in photography has been a series of key milestones that have each contributed to our growth and commitment to this art form.
One of the initial and pivotal moments was joining 1x.com, a highly respected photography community. This platform provided us with exposure to an extensive range of high-quality photographic works and the opportunity to engage with a global network of passionate photographers. The high standards of 1x.com pushed us to refine our skills and strive for excellence in every shot we took.
Another significant milestone was having our first still life photograph published on 1x.com. This was a moment of immense pride and validation for us. Seeing our work recognized on such a reputable platform reinforced our belief in our vision and capabilities. It encouraged us to continue exploring and experimenting with our photography, knowing that our efforts could resonate with others.
Receiving our first photography award at 1x.com was another pivotal experience. This recognition not only highlighted our dedication and hard work but also served as a powerful motivator to keep improving and pushing our boundaries. Recognition from a respected community like 1x.com provided a sense of accomplishment and motivated us to aim even higher.
Becoming members of the Atlantic Photographers Association (APA) marked another important chapter in our journey. The APA has offered us numerous opportunities to learn, collaborate, and grow within a community of like-minded individuals who share our passions for photography. Being part of this association has broadened our horizons and given us access to invaluable resources and mentorship.
These milestones have not only marked our progress but also inspired us to continue capturing the beauty of the world with dedication and creativity.

'Dried trees versus Mountains'

You have your very own style. I see mainly landscape photography beside a few other photographic categories.
Why are you so drawn by landscape photography?
Indeed, we are deeply drawn to landscape photography, and there are several reasons that drive us for that.
Firstly, our deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors is a significant factor. Living in Canada, we are surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, from serene lakes and dense forests to breathtaking mountains and countryside. These environments offer endless opportunities for exploration and inspiration. Each outing into nature is not just a chance to take photographs but a unforgettable experience that connects us to the world.
Our love for travelling also plays a role. Travelling allows us to experience new places and cultures, through our lenses, we can capture the beauty and uniqueness of the places we visit, creating a visual diary of our adventures. Whether it’s the serene beauty of a sunrise over a misty lake or the dramatic intensity of a storm rolling over the mountains, photography allows us to preserve these stunning moments forever.
Moreover, landscape photography challenges us in ways that we find incredibly fulfilling. It requires patience, careful planning, and an understanding of natural light and weather conditions. The process of waiting for the perfect light or hiking to a remote location for the ideal vantage point adds a sense of adventure and accomplishment to our work. Each photograph reflects the effort and dedication we put into capturing the beauty of the natural world.
So, landscape photography is not just a pursuit; it’s a reflection of our love for nature, travel, and the profound beauty of the world around us. It’s a continuous journey of discovery and emotional expression that enriches our lives in countless ways.

'Mountains in Fall Colors'

'Grand Canal'

What is more important to you, the mood,/story behind your images or the technical perfection?
For us, the mood and story behind our images hold more importance than technical perfection. While technical skills are essential and provide a strong foundation for our work, it is the emotions and stories that truly give our photographs meaning and depth.
Photography, to us, is a powerful medium for storytelling. Each image we capture is not just a depiction of a scene but a story that conveys our experiences, feelings, and perspectives. We aim to evoke emotions and connect with viewers on a deeper level, allowing them to feel the serenity of a quiet morning by the lake, the wonder of a majestic mountain range, or the drama of an approaching storm. The story and mood of an image are what linger in the minds and hearts of viewers, creating a lasting impact.
In summary, while we strive for technical excellence in our work, the mood and story behind our images are what truly drive us. They are the heart of our photography, transforming our images from mere pictures into meaningful expressions of our journey and the world.

'The Tree in Fitz Roy Mountains'

'A storm is coming'

What generally is your relationship to your subject matter beyond being an observer?
Do you prepare carefully the locations where you are intending to photograph?
As a photographer, our relationship with our subject matter goes beyond mere observation. We strive to develop a deep connection with the scenes we capture, which allows us to convey their true essence and emotions through photographs.
Before photographing a location, we make an effort to understand and appreciate its unique characteristics. This often involves extensive research about the location, including its history, natural features, and any special attributes that make it noteworthy. We read about it, study maps, and sometimes even explore it virtually to get a sense of what makes the place special.
We also try to connect emotionally with the subject. We immerse ourselves in the atmosphere and mood of the place, seeking to capture not just its visual beauty but also the feelings it evokes. This emotional connection helps us to create images that resonate on a deeper level and tell a compelling story.
Ultimately, by carefully preparing and engaging with our subject matter, we aim to capture its true spirit and share that with viewers in a way that is both meaningful and evocative.

'On The Way Home in Venice'

Describe your overall photographic vision.
Our overall photographic vision is about capturing and sharing the beauty and emotion in the world around us. We aim to create images that not only showcase interesting scenes but also evoke feelings and tell a story.
We focus on the natural world, particularly landscapes, because they offer endless variety and beauty. Through our photography, we want to highlight the serenity of quiet moments in nature, the majesty of vast landscapes, and the subtle details that might go unnoticed. We strive to create images that are both visually appealing and emotionally engaging, allowing people to experience the same wonder and fascination that we felt when capturing the photograph.
In essence, our vision is to blend technical skill with emotional depth, aiming to produce photographs that are both visually appealing and meaningful.

DESERT MEETS OCEAN

What are the main features of a successful landscape / wildlife photographer in your opinion?
Passion to nature: A genuine love for nature and photography drives the dedication needed to capture stunning images.
Attention to Detail: Noticing small details in the environment or wildlife can make a big difference in capturing the best shot.
Creativity: Being able to see unique perspectives and compositions adds depth and interest to photos.
Technical Skill: Pre-production and post-production skills are essential for creating high-quality images.
Patience: photography often requires waiting for the perfect moment or conditions.

'Quiver trees'

Can you please tell us something more about your workflow from the idea to the final product?
Our workflow involves pre and post productions:

In the pre-production phase, we research and visualize the scene we want to capture, considering factors such as the type of environment and the style of photography, whether it’s a wide-angle landscape, a detailed macro shot, or a dynamic street scene. We also refer to the work of other photographers at similar locations for inspiration, helping us discover our own unique photographic perspective. This process involves selecting the appropriate equipment, including cameras, lenses, tripods, and any additional lighting or filters needed.

During the on-site shoot, we take our time to set up and compose each shot. We pay close attention to framing, lighting, and the elements within the scene. We often take multiple shots with different settings to ensure we capture the best possible image creatively.
In the post-production phase, after selecting the images to process, we usually start with basic adjustments in Lightroom or Camera Raw. We use these tools for overall enhancements and employ masking techniques to fine-tune specific parts of the image. Most of our post-processing is completed in Lightroom or Camera Raw. For final touches, we use Photoshop along with Nik Collection and TK Lum-Mask plug-ins until we are satisfied with the image and ready to export it.

'The Church In Foggy Days'

Many are of the opinion that the gear is not very important when the passion for photography is strong. However, can you please share with us what gear you use (camera, lenses, lighting, tripod, etc.)?
While we agree that passion and creativity are crucial in photography, the right gear can certainly enhance the experience and help achieve specific goals. Here is the main gear we use:
Camera: We use Canon and Sony full-frame camera
Lenses: Our lens collection includes a variety of options tailored to different needs. For landscape photography, we use a wide-angle lens, 14-24mm or 16-35mm,  that allows us to capture expansive scenes and detailed textures. we also have zoom lens, e.g 24-70mm, 70-300mm and 200-600mm, for more flexibility, enabling us to photograph distant subjects with precision.
Mobile Phones: convenience and portability and versatility make them ideal for spontaneous photography
Tripod and Lens Filters to manage reflections and enhance colours, as well as a remote shutter release to minimize camera shake during long exposures.

'A corner at kitchen'

What would be your favourite photo? Please tell us the story behind it.
One of our favourite photos is an astrophotography shot we took in Namibia’s Deadvlei. This photograph holds a special place in our heart, not only because of its breathtaking beauty but also due to the unique and challenging circumstances under which it was captured.
Deadvlei, known for its stunning clay pan surrounded by ancient, dead camel thorn trees, is a remarkable location, especially under the night sky. To capture the stars and the landscape illuminated by the moonlight, we had to leave our camera equipment set up overnight. We carefully planned the shot, considering the alignment of the stars and the composition of the trees.
After setting up our cameras in the evening, we left the area and returned at the earliest possible time the next morning to retrieve the equipment and check the results. The anticipation and excitement of seeing the final image was immense. When we finally viewed the photograph, the result was beyond our expectations. The night sky was filled with countless stars, and the ghostly trees stood in stark contrast against the celestial backdrop.
This photo is particularly special to us because it captures a moment that can no longer be replicated. The location has since been closed at night, making it impossible to take similar shots now. overall, this photograph represents a perfect blend of meticulous planning, adventurous spirit, and a bit of fortunate timing, making it one of our most cherished works.

'The Milkyway at Deadvlei'

Who are your favourite photographers or mentors whose works have influenced you and your photography?
We have been inspired by several photographers and mentors whose work has profoundly influenced our approach to photography. Some of our favourites include:

Henry Liu: His dedication to capture the beauty, majesty, and diversity of the natural world has had a significant impact on our understanding of landscape photography, including pre-production and post-production.
Larry Deng and Bingo Z: Their boundless imagination, open-minded approach, and remarkable creativity have had a profound impact on our own photography journey. Their ability to see beyond the obvious and explore diverse styles has broadened our perspective and inspired us to push the boundaries of our own work. Their innovative thinking encourages us to experiment with new ideas, leading us to continually evolve and refine our own creative vision.
Carmine Chiriacò: We admire Carmine's work immensely. His unique approach to photography, especially his ability to capture the raw essence of everyday life with such emotional depth, is truly inspiring. His use of techniques like Multiple Exposures Composites, combined with his skill in long exposure photography, creates images that are both visually stunning and deeply engaging. His work not only reflects technical excellence but also an extraordinary artistic vision that motivates us to explore and develop our photographic style.

'River Flowing Through Mt. Cerro Torre'

'Dancing flower'

'Gondola Tours In Venice'

In addition to these photographers, we would also like to express our gratitude to Lydia Jacobs who ignited our passion for photography, especially in the realm of still life.

Now, since we have almost reached the end of this interview, I would kindly ask you to share with us your plans or photographic projects you would like to be involved in.
While landscape photography continues to be a major passion, we’re eager to branch out and explore new areas of photography, particularly street photography.
In the coming years, we plan to dive into street photography to broaden our creative horizons. We’re intrigued by the dynamic and spontaneous nature of capturing urban environments and everyday moments. Street photography offers a different set of challenges and opportunities compared to landscape photography, and we’re excited to experiment with this genre to capture the essence of life in bustling cityscapes.
We look forward to exploring various cities, immersing ourselves in their cultures, and documenting the vibrant interactions and moments that define them.
Overall, our goal is to continue growing as photographers, embracing new experiences, and pushing the boundaries of our artistic expression. We’re enthusiastic about the opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to sharing our journey with others.

Is there anything else you wish to add and what do you think about 1X as a home base for your work?
We’d like to express our gratitude for this opportunity to share our journey and insights. Photography is a deeply personal and evolving practice for us, and we are always excited to explore new creative possibilities and challenges. We value the ongoing support and inspiration from the photography community, and we look forward to continuing our growth and contributing to this vibrant field.

1x has been an incredible platform for us. It provides a supportive and engaging community where we can showcase our work and receive constructive feedback. The quality of the photographs featured on 1x is inspiring and sets a high standard that motivates us to continually improve our own skills.
Having our work displayed on 1x also allows us to connect with a global audience and gain exposure in a way that might be difficult through other platforms. The ability to interact with other talented photographers, share experiences, and participate in various projects and challenges has been immensely valuable.

Overall, 1x serves as an excellent home base for our work, offering both a platform to present our images and a community to foster our growth as photographers. We appreciate the opportunities it provides and look forward to continuing our engagement with this vibrant and supportive community.

'Southern Yellow-Billed Hornbill'