Greg Lin Pays Homage To His Chinese Roots And Finds Inspiration In The Smallest Details
Photographer Greg Lin Jiajie pays homage to his Chinese roots and finds inspiration in the smallest details.
On becoming a photographer:
I’ve loved art ever since I was young, so going into photography was no surprise. We had a family camera at home and I used to take a lot of pictures on it. The idea of “capturing the moment” was so fascinating to me. It all felt very natural.
On their creative process:
Every project is different; some start with a topic I want to explore, some start with a visual reference. Then I think about what the project is trying to convey and ask myself, “What is the story I’m trying to tell?” After setting the mood and tone for the project, I tend to go into my shoots without planing too much. I like to just let things happen.
On the concept of beauty:
Growing up, I didn’t get exposed to different types of beauty. It felt very flat and one- dimensional. I took what society and the mainstream taught me about stereotypical beauty as the truth, but the older I get, I appreciate a lot more looks and different styles. The people I’ve met, the places I’ve seen, and the stories I’ve heard have really helped me understand there’s more than one standard of beauty. And beauty isn’t just that one thing on the surface.
On getting and staying inspired:
My greatest inspiration comes out of my own personal stories and life experience. For my photo project, LONGYAN BOYS, I drew from the bond and history between my twin brother and I. The initial idea was just retracing childhood memories with my twin and getting to know him better. Staying inspired all the time seems impossible, but when I pay close attention to the way I feel, to the people around me, and to the small things in everyday life, I eventually find inspiration in them.
On offering advice to those just starting out in fashion photography:
I never think of myself as someone who is ready to give others advice, but I’d just say keep trying and work harder. It worked for me, it’s the Chinese way! [Laughs]
On up-and-coming creatives to get excited about:
Photographer Annie Lai, filmmaker Candice Lo, stylist Kingsley Tao, musician Una Ho, and makeup artist Phebe Wu.
Favorite song: “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Green Day
Favorite painting: Café Terrace at Night by Vincent van Gogh
Favorite books: Life by Lu Yao, Educated by Tara Westover, Know My Name by Chanel Miller, and anything written by Yu Hua
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