Interview With Joseph Lai

I started taking photography seriously during the pandemic when I was forced to work from home. I also took some classes at local universities where I learned the basics and took the time to go out, shoot, and experiment. You can also see me often at local photo bookstores and exhibitions studying other people's work (famous or not). A lot of inspiration comes from fellow artists (not just photographers).

If I had to go back, it was with point-and-shoot at family gatherings. I would not call it "photographic work," but rather "personal memories."

I'm shooting with a Fuji X-T4. I use Sigma 18 - 50, F2.8 as my daily carry. However, when I go out to shoot, I tend to favor prime lenses. In particular, Fuji 56mm LM WR F1.2, Fuji 23mm WR F2.0, Voigtlander Ultron 27mm F2.0, and Voigtlander Ultron APO 35mm F2.0. The manual lens allows me to slow down and really enjoy taking photos. I also shoot with a Nikon F3 from time to time. It's more for the enjoyment of analog photography, so I'm not too critical of the result of those photos.

My job is one way of dealing with a stressful work life. However, I think in every photo there is a story and a moment that I can always reflect on that specific moment in my life. It's a way to know that I have lived and enjoyed life.

Some friends have said that my photos require imagination to understand. This is an honor because it means that my photos invoke thoughts and feelings. I don't intend every photo to be technically perfect (to me that is professional photography).

Everything that surrounds me at that moment. Be it people, architecture, weather, my mood, etc.

Candid, fun, and immersive.

I am absolutely thrilled.

The two photos were RUN in People Photography – Street and BEFORE SUNSET in Nature Photography ––Sunset. I like to take high-contrast photos and, as mentioned above, require some imagination to understand, which means that the audience can make up their own story.

It gives me confidence to chart a path/direction for my future work.

Siegfried Hansen, Takashi Yasui, Fan Ho

Keep shooting and try not to look at them until you get home because you may miss a "street moment" when you spend time looking at the LCD screen.

I think it is more important to develop a "keen eye" rather than fixate on "the equipment." Read lots of photo books (not photography books), where you can find inspiration to serve as examples of finding your style.

Be diligent and not discouraged by having a "bad photography day." As with life, photography has its ups and downs.

Bouncing ideas from other photographers and artists. Social media these days also helps, but you need to filter out a lot of "white noise" and focus on constructive criticism.

Receiving the awards is one of the best things for Christmas 2023! Thank you NYPA.