All rights to this photograph is reserved the photographer
“A place that never sleeps” is one of the many cliches used to describe Hong Kong – and of course at the root of every cliche sprouts some stem of truth. However, after living here for 4 years and seeing countless people hurry frantically about, working obscene hours – and unfortunately, people who in other countries would be elibigle for retirement pushing large crates of cardboard boxes or something or other – this shot reminds me that everyone, even in Hong Kong… are simply human.
I come back to this shot because it is a personal example of how far I have progressed in my photographic style, skills and to some extent equipment. Having used Leica gear for the past 10 years, starting with an M6 TTL, 50/2.0 Summicron and 90/2.8 Tele-Elmarit, this shot took me back to basics. With an M3 single-stroke and 35/2.0 Summicron Version 1 with goggles, I estimated the exposure and though not perfect, in my opinion came pretty close. I am constantly seeking to better my skills and think that there are so many things that are still “undvlpd.”
Why I use a Leica:
Does using Leica equipment mean making better photos? For me it does. Not only for the reasons that many people have stated such as world-class optics, engineering and quality or the unique view of the world that the rangefinder provides – but because it gives me confidence. I know the image will turn out the way I imagined, or many times even better. I have owned and used many Leica bodies and lenses including CL, M6 TTL, M7, MP and M8, but now my main stable of bodies consists of an M3, M7 and M8. My lenses include 35/2.0 Summicron Version 1 with goggles, 50/2.0 Summicron DR (Classic Kit), 50/1.0 Noctilux Version 3 E60, 35/1.4 Summilux ASPH and a Leitz 40/2.0 Summicron.
Rick Kwan is currently working and living in Hong Kong with his lovely wife and daughter. Please visit his Flick photostream for additional captivating Leica shots.
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Great shot, Rick. There’s a sense of desperation in the way he’s sitting on the stairs. Combined with what you’re telling about working in Hong Kong it gets very powerful.
Thanks James, that is very kind of you.