Why we liked it: the subject of Richard’s photo is not an uncommon sight in Asian metropolis, where old ladies and men somewhat struggle with the modernity that nowadays surrounds them, in this perfectly timed shot though this contrast is amplified by the blurred speed of the taxi compared to the almost sisyphean figure of the woman pushing a load of cardboards.
Richard, what is your story? When did photography enter your life?
I am a French fashion and portrait photographer. I always had a creative side but struggled finding what medium could help me express it. I cannot really draw and despite several attempts, cannot play the guitar. I always enjoyed looking at pictures but never really thought of using this medium. I did however document my different trips abroad with a point and shoot camera and enjoyed how relaxed it made me, walking around a town I dont know and looking for things to capture. I was fortunate to travel to London for the 2012 Olympics and thought it would be great to capture these one in a lifetime moments with a more decent camera. I started looking into gear and it opened my eyes to all that was going on in the photography world, which was completely passing me by. I am completely hooked now and am still in awe of the amount of creative people that you can come across. I quite enjoy fashion and portraits photography because I believe it allows me to offer a surreal vision of reality. I do however still enjoy street and travel photography as that is where I started and I still like how it helps me break the ice with strangers and create a connection with them.
My website is www.richardpommerat.com
What motivated you to participate in this competition?
My mother is from Singapore. Having grown up in France, I always had a fascination about Asia which I think was a way to retain half of my identity. I heard about this competition several days after I came back from a 3 week trip there where I really wanted to capture how vibrant and busy this place was. I fell even more in love with Asia and wanted to share it, this competition seemed like a great platform to do so!
Where was this picture taken? Can you tell us something more about it?
This picture was taken in Hong Kong. It shows one of the many old persons going around the city pushing these filled up carts. It looks surreal compared to the modern and edgy image we have of Asia. When I saw the car passing that old lady by, I thought it was a great way to translate the contradiction of today’s Asia.
That’s exactly why we found your photo very interesting! What are you trying to convey with your photography?
As Asia develops in a highly modern society, some old traditions might disappear. This contrast is what makes Asia so unique and in my opinion, the biggest challenge that will face the Asian countries is to keep growing whilst not leaving behind parts of their identity which may disappear.
What is the place that inspires you the most and why?
I have a soft spot for Hong Kong. This place is invigorating. It has all the advantages of a big western city but there is also this grunginess that makes it so unique. On top of this, though it seems at that people are always shouting at you, Cantonese is like a sweet tune to me, my grandparents being originally from Canton. Finally, for a foodie like me, it is heaven on Earth!
What is your long term goal with photography?
I am looking into transitionning to being a full time photographer and perhaps relocating to Asia in that regard. I am also trying to create a collective of creatives (photographers, videographers, make up artists, etc…) in order to help each other out and creating crazy stuff together. If any of your readers are interested, let me know!
Readers: are you interested? If so check out Richard’s website and give him a shout. In the meanwhile, do you think you have some story to share with us? If so then take part in “All of Asia”, create a profile and submit your photos!
