Here are the 6 concepts I’m going to link some of my photography findings with:

• The Decisive Moment: Capturing Momentary Life in the HutongsIdea: Take advantage of unplanned, unique moments that capture the life of everyday existence.​

  Example: A candid shot of a child playing in a narrow alleyway, with his parent (aka a “Hutong” of Beijing), capturing the joy and freedom of youth in the Hutongs, as well as displaying an interaction between him and more aged person.

  Why this picture works: It captures the “decisive moment,” a moment of real emotion and movement that reveals more about life in these historic neighborhoods

 

• Get Really Close-An Arm’s Length Away: Intimacy in Tight Spaces

  Idea: Highlight connections between people and the closeness of community life by using close-up shots.

  Example: A photograph capturing elderly residents sitting just outside their doorways, offering a glimpse into their daily routine.

  Why it works: Viewers are drawn into the subject’s world by the shot’s close proximity, which highlights the communal and personal aspects of Hutong life.

  

• Focus on the Background → Practical Storytelling Idea: To give my subject more depth, make use of the Hutong environment’s rich textures and details. ​Example: A portrait of residents with the detailed brickwork and traditional decorations of their home in the background. ​

  Why it works: By adding context, the background elements enhance the story and draw attention to the setting’s cultural significance.

• Composition: Managing ChaosIdea: Use compositional strategies to give busy street scenes focus and order.​

  Example: An example would be a carefully framed image of a vendor occupying one-third of the frame, with the bustling market behind them.​

  Why it works: By directing the viewer’s gaze, the composition highlights the subject while preserving the dynamic surroundings.

 

• Perspective and Angles-Dramatizing Space Idea: Experiment with angles to transform ordinary scenes into compelling images. ​Example: A low-angle shot of an alley, making the walls appear towering and the space more dramatic. ​

  Why it works: This perspective adds a sense of elegance and depth, highlighting the unique architecture of the Hutongs.

 

• Tension-Contrasts Between Old and New Idea: Capture the contrast of traditional Hutong life with modern elements. ​Example: A photograph showing a traditional Hutong alley with modern houses looming in the background. ​

  Why it works: The difference highlights Beijing’s quick development and the tension between embracing modernity and conserving history. ​

 

 

GENERAL STATEMENT: I will focus on the statement of “People of China” and capture different types of people in different conditions, capturing them in any moment, and finally indicating and responding back to the theme.