Gianni Berengo Gardin is an Italian street photographer known for his black-and-white photos that capture real people and honest moments. His work focuses on human life, emotion, and connection, which connects to my concept of showing life inside the Hutongs.

One thing I notice about Gardin’s work is his use of natural light and shadow. He doesn’t need bright colors to tell a story—his images use contrast and composition to make ordinary scenes feel meaningful. In his photos, people are often unaware of the camera, which makes the moment look natural and true.

I also like how Gardin pays attention to culture and community, showing how people live and work together. His photography reminds me that beauty is not about perfection but about real life. I want to use his style as inspiration in my own project—to focus on people’s daily lives, capture emotion through small details, and show the beauty of ordinary moments in the Hutongs.

Gianni Berengo Gardin | Venezia (1959) | Artsy

This photograph shows two people sharing an intimate moment in the center of a long, arched walkway, and when I look at it, I feel a calm and emotional atmosphere. The black-and-white tones give the scene a timeless quality, and the repeating columns and ceiling lines guide my eyes straight toward the couple, making them the clear focus. I notice how the symmetry of the space and the contrast between their darker clothing and the lighter background highlight their connection, making the moment feel private even though it’s happening in a public place. To me, the image suggests themes of love, human connection, and how relationships can influence someone’s identity. When I think about creating a photo like this myself, I would look for a long hallway, tunnel, or walkway with strong leading lines and stand directly in the center to capture the symmetry. I’d place my subject in the middle so they stand out, and I might shoot in black and white or convert the image later to get that classic, emotional mood. I’d also aim for soft lighting to add depth, and I would ask my models to interact naturally so the photo feels genuine and intimate, just like this one.