Interview
Shang Yao Yuan
impact advertising.co., Taiwan
Shang Yao Yuan has dedicated his career as a creative director at impact advertising co., harnessing the immense power of images to move audiences deeply; from crafting bold ideas to capturing compelling visuals himself, he embraces every challenge with passion and pride.
1 Congratulations on winning in the MUSE Photography Awards! Can you share a little about yourself, what inspired you to pursue photography, and how has your journey evolved since your first shot?
My lifelong profession has been as a creative director at an advertising agency. I know the power of images is immense and can deeply move people. From developing creative ideas to picking up a camera to capture compelling visuals, I find these challenges both exciting and fulfilling. I enjoy this work and take great pride in it.
2 Can you share the story or inspiration behind your award-winning piece? How does winning this award make you feel about your journey in photography?
My country has many beautiful places and moving scenes. Through my images, I want to express my love and respect for this land. By winning this competition, I hope to help more people discover and appreciate the beauty of Taiwan.
3 How do you decide which photo to submit for a competition?
I regularly study global visual trends and award-winning works from international photography competitions. I also plan various experimental photo shoots and use my vacation time to carry them out.
4 What first made you pick up a camera?
Sudden good weather often inspires me to take photos. I usually keep my camera gear in the trunk of my car so that whenever time and opportunity allow, I'm ready to head out and shoot.
5 What’s your favorite type of photography, and why do you love it?
I love photographing landscapes, nature, the Milky Way, and artistic creations. I enjoy challenging myself to find the best timing and shooting angles—and I truly enjoy the process.
6 What’s your go-to camera setup, and why does it work best for your projects? What’s your favorite feature?
I like using manual mode because it allows me to adjust the camera settings myself and successfully capture beautiful shots. I especially enjoy experimenting with long exposures and low-light scenes to test my creativity.
7 If someone looked at your work, what’s the one thing you’d want them to feel?
I had a good feeling about the work and was moved by it, so I made sure to take note of its imagery.
8 What was the most challenging part of capturing your winning shot?
I find the low-light environment and underwater subject matter exciting and full of dramatic changes.
9 Is there a specific place or subject that inspires you the most?
I control the equipment and environment to present the best work perfectly. Every shutter click is a challenge.
10 Who or what has been your biggest influence in photography?
International photography competitions, especially the MUSE Photography Awards, have influenced me more than any of my favorite photography icons.
11 What message would you share to inspire photographers to participate in photography awards, and what advice would you give to help them excel in the competition?
Through the promotion of my works, I want to tell photographers that as long as they take pictures and take action, they will have the opportunity to shine in international competitions. Don’t think too much, just take action.
12 What’s one piece of advice for someone just starting in photography?
Like me, if you continue to study many works from international competitions and analyze and interpret their creative concepts, you will find your own style and subject matter.
13 What role do editing and post-processing play in your creative workflow?
I don’t need much editing or post-production. I want to capture the desired image in one shot using just one camera. I prefer the most original and beautiful results.
14 How do you see technology, like AI, influencing the future of photography and your own approach?
This is a good way to spark creativity, but it mainly provides inspiration. It's better to present the work through photographic equipment because the results feel real and warm.
15 If you could photograph anything or anyone in the world, what would it be?
I want to photograph underwater creatures and natural weather environments in extreme climates, which gives me the excitement of exploring the unknown.
