Guanxi Su
1. Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
I’m Su Guanxi, an amateur photographer and a passionate observer of the beauty around us. My photography journey began as a way to capture the fleeting moments of life. Over time, what started as a hobby evolved into a more profound exploration of storytelling through visuals. Inspired by the intricate details of everyday life and the ever-changing light, I sought to convey emotions and narratives through my lens. Photography became my medium for expressing both the seen and the unseen, merging reality with imagination.
2. Where did you study photography?
While I didn't formally study photography at an institution, I’ve continually developed my skills through self-learning and practical experience. I believe that photography is a lifelong journey of exploration and experimentation. I’ve taken courses on platforms like Coursera, attended workshops, and learned from the works of master photographers. Most importantly, being out in the world with my camera and learning through trial and error has been my greatest education.
3. Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
Yes, I remember it vividly. My first shot was of a simple, yet beautiful sunrise over a quiet street in my hometown. The way the early morning light played with the shadows on the pavement captured my attention, and I felt an overwhelming urge to freeze that moment in time. It wasn’t technically perfect, but it ignited my passion for capturing the world around me.
4. What equipment do you use?
My go-to gear for humanities photography is Leica's M-series cameras and lenses, with a preference for Hasselblad 500-series film cameras and the newly introduced 907 digital backs for landscape photography.
5. What do you hope to achieve?
Through my photography, I hope to inspire others to see the beauty in the ordinary and the extraordinary in everyday life. I want my images to evoke emotions, spark curiosity, and tell stories that resonate with people from all walks of life. Ultimately, I aim to create a body of work that captures the essence of human experience and the world around us, leaving a lasting impact on those who view it.
6. What compliment inspired/touched you the most?
The most moving compliment I received came from a well-known Japanese photographer who said my work made them “feel as if they were there” and “felt the moment.” This statement resonated with me because it affirmed that my images can transcend the frame and resonate with the viewer on a deeper level, which has always been my goal as a photographer.
7. What inspires your unique storytelling?
My unique storytelling is inspired by life's small, often overlooked moments. I find inspiration in the contrast between light and shadow, the interplay of colours, and the emotions that unfold in quiet spaces. I’m also deeply influenced by travel and the different cultures I encounter, which allow me to bring a diverse perspective to my work. Photography is my way of telling stories that might otherwise go unnoticed.
8. What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
Candid, emotional, and timeless.
9. Congratulations! As the winner of the European Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
Winning the European Photography Awards is an incredible honour and a testament to the passion and dedication I pour into my photography. It proves the power of persistence and creativity. For me, this award is a milestone that encourages us to keep pushing the boundaries and exploring new horizons in photography. It is a recognition that inspires me to continue telling stories that matter.
10. Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 European Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
The winning work is titled "Silent Night Poem," a long-exposure shot capturing the tranquil beauty of a starry night over a snow-capped mountain range. The photograph is a meditation on the serenity and stillness of nature, juxtaposed with the subtle yet profound motion of the stars as they trace their paths across the night sky. This work is deeply personal to me, as it represents both the vastness of the universe and the intimate, quiet moments we experience within it.
I chose to enter this project because it encapsulates the essence of my photographic vision—finding poetry in silence and stillness, and capturing the delicate balance between motion and calm. The soft hues of the night sky, the stars' ethereal streaks, and the mountains' imposing presence create a composition that speaks to the viewer on multiple levels. "Silent Night Poem" is not just a visual experience but an invitation to pause, reflect, and connect with the natural world on a deeper level.
11. How has winning an award developed your career?
Winning this award has opened new doors for me in terms of visibility and opportunities to collaborate with other creatives. It has also given me the confidence to take on more ambitious projects and continue pushing my artistic boundaries. The recognition has also helped me connect with a wider audience, allowing my work to reach people who might not have seen it otherwise.
12. Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Steve McCurry - for his powerful storytelling and ability to capture the human experience in a single frame. Henri Cartier-Bresson - for his mastery of composition and the decisive moment. Sebastiao Salgado - for his deeply emotional and impactful documentary work that highlights the beauty and struggles of our world.
13. What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
Photography was my first hobby, although I didn't have a direct mentor, I did have access to a lot of famous photographers, and the best advice I got was to “shoot from the heart”. I believe every shot should have a theme, whether to tell a story, evoke an emotion, or capture a fleeting moment.
14. What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
I would advise starting with what you have and just shooting. Don’t worry about having the best equipment or perfecting every shot. Focus on developing your eye, finding your unique voice, and telling stories that matter to you. Consistency and passion are key, so keep learning, experimenting, and pushing yourself to improve.
15. What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
My key to success has been a combination of perseverance, curiosity, and a willingness to take risks. Photography is an ever-evolving field, and staying adaptable and open to new ideas has been crucial. My parting words of wisdom would be to never lose sight of the joy that photography brings. Let that joy be the driving force behind everything you create.
16. How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
I stay receptive by constantly challenging myself to try new techniques, explore different genres of photography, and engage with other photographers and creatives. I also make it a point to continue learning, whether through online courses, reading, or simply observing the world around me. Staying curious and open-minded has been essential in keeping my work fresh and innovative.
17. Which THREE (3) friends/peers would you nominate to participate in the next European Photography Awards?
Unfortunately at the moment, I don't have any friends who are involved in photography or people who are crazy about it, but the only thing I can say for sure is that I will continue to participate in the next contest.
18. Anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I would just like to express my gratitude for this incredible opportunity. Photography has been a transformative journey for me, and I’m excited to continue pushing the boundaries of my craft. I hope that through my work, I can continue to connect with others and share the beauty of the world as I see it.
