Why did Fan Ho Start With Photography?
The world of photography has seen its fair share of exceptional talent, but few have made as significant an impact as Fan Ho. Known as the "Cartier-Bresson of the East," Fan Ho's mesmerizing black-and-white photographs from the 1950s and 1960s offer us a glimpse into the everyday life of Hong Kong's bustling streets. But did you know that his passion for photography was ignited by a need to escape chronic headaches? In this blog post, we'll delve into the extraordinary life of Fan Ho, his unique approach to capturing 'the decisive moment,' and how photography offered him solace amidst pain.
The Origin of Fan Ho's Photography Journey: As a teenager, Fan Ho started experiencing chronic headaches that disrupted his daily life. Reading and writing would only intensify the pain, so he sought refuge in photography. In a way, the art form became his sanctuary – an escape from the discomfort and a way to express himself without exacerbating his condition.
Developing Images in the Family Bathtub: In the early days of his photographic journey, Fan Ho would develop his own images using his family's bathtub. This allowed him to experiment with various techniques and cultivate his unique style. He would often capture his subjects spontaneously, making use of 'the decisive moment' – a term coined by renowned French photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson. Other times, he would stage photos and edit them later to create the perfect composition.
The Streets of Hong Kong as a Canvas: Fan Ho's photographs are a visual time capsule of Hong Kong during the 1950s and 1960s. His work documented the city's rapid transformation and its diverse inhabitants. From crowded street markets to quiet alleyways, Fan Ho immortalized the essence of the city with his keen eye and deft touch.
For those interested in learning more about the art of photography and the works of Fan Ho, you might consider checking out some of these books:
"Fan Ho: A Hong Kong Memoir" by Fan Ho – This book is a collection of Fan Ho's most iconic photographs, providing readers with a captivating visual journey through Hong Kong's past.
"The Decisive Moment" by Henri Cartier-Bresson – A must-read for any budding photographer, this book discusses the principles of capturing the perfect moment in time.
"Magnum Contact Sheets" by Kristen Lubben – This book offers a fascinating insight into the thought process and techniques of some of the world's most renowned photographers, including Fan Ho.
Fan Ho's extraordinary talent and perseverance in the face of adversity allowed him to transform his pain into art. His striking photographs not only documented a pivotal era in Hong Kong's history but also left an indelible mark on the world of photography. As you explore his work and the works of other influential photographers, you'll undoubtedly find inspiration to capture your own 'decisive moments.'
You can also watch this YouTube video to find out more.
