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Wong Kar Wai’s Cinematographer Captures the Golden Age of Hong Kong Romance

Lydia Wilson05 mins

Wing Shya: An Iconic Photographer of Hong Kong’s Golden Era

Capturing Cinematic Moments

As director Wong Kar Wai's exclusive set photographer, Hong Kong artist Wing Shya is known for his vivid, tender images from the golden era of Hong Kong cinema, including this moment between Maggie Cheung and Tony Leung during the filming of Wong Kar Wai's masterpiece, 'In the Mood For Love.'
As director Wong Kar Wai’s exclusive set photographer, Hong Kong artist Wing Shya is known for his vivid, tender images from the golden era of Hong Kong cinema, including this moment between Maggie Cheung and Tony Leung during the filming of Wong Kar Wai’s masterpiece, ‘In the Mood For Love.’

The Power of Collaboration

“Because of Wong Kar Wai, I met all the great actors and actresses,” said Wing. He would continue collaborating with many of them, including Shu Qi, on various projects.

Wing would continue to collaborate with many of them -- including Shu Qi (pictured above) -- on other projects.
Wing would continue to collaborate with many of them — including Shu Qi (pictured above) — on other projects.

A Unique Approach to Photography

Wing Shya’s journey as a photographer began with a moment of vulnerability. He shot this still on the set of Wong Kar Wai’s ‘Happy Together,’ illustrating his unique method of capturing the essence of moments.

Wing shot this still on-set of Hong Kong film director Wong Kar Wai's 'Happy Together.' The inexperienced young photographer showed up to set without a soundproof box for his camera -- and could only film in between takes because of the sound of shutter clicks.
Wing shot this still on-set of Hong Kong film director Wong Kar Wai’s ‘Happy Together.’ The inexperienced young photographer showed up to set without a soundproof box for his camera — and could only film in between takes because of the sound of shutter clicks.

Establishing a Signature Style

The “behind the scenes” feeling became one of Wing’s signature styles. This unique style allows viewers to experience an intimate glimpse into the moments he captures.

The 'behind the scenes' feeling became one of Wing's signature styles. 'You don't know what's going on. That creates another chemistry,' he said.
The ‘behind the scenes’ feeling became one of Wing’s signature styles. ‘You don’t know what’s going on. That creates another chemistry,’ he said.

The Evolution of Wing Shya’s Work

Notably, Wing Shya’s photographs hint at the mysteries of time gone by, with models’ faces often washed in nostalgic color. His work reflects a complex blend of longing and hidden sentiment.

Wing Shya's photographs hint at the mysteries of time gone by: his models' faces are washed in nostalgic color, obscured by shadow, often wearing expressions of longing or hidden sentiment.
Wing Shya’s photographs hint at the mysteries of time gone by: his models’ faces are washed in nostalgic color, obscured by shadow, often wearing expressions of longing or hidden sentiment.

Drawing from Inspiration

The chaotic, shifting density of Hong Kong’s cityscapes is a strong influence on Wing’s work, which encompasses photography, graphic design, visual art, and film.

The chaotic, shifting density of Hong Kong's cityscapes is a strong inspiration for Wing's work, which spans photography, graphic design, visual art, and film.
The chaotic, shifting density of Hong Kong’s cityscapes is a strong inspiration for Wing’s work, which spans photography, graphic design, visual art, and film.

Legacy of a Visionary Artist

Wing Shya’s contributions have helped to define a unique aesthetic that resonates deeply with audiences and inspires many emerging photographers.

He's helped to define a look that belongs uniquely to this former British colony, and inspired countless imitators.
He’s helped to define a look that belongs uniquely to this former British colony, and inspired countless imitators.

Future Exhibitions

Wing Shya’s work continues to be celebrated. “Wing Shya: Acting Out” was held from November 8, 2017, to January 10, 2018, produced by independent art platform FORWARD ASSEMBLY at Shanghai Center of Photography.

Wing Shya: Acting Out exhibition at Shanghai Center of Photography.
Wing Shya: Acting Out exhibition at Shanghai Center of Photography.


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