Photography group Shanghai Exposed are opening their archives to us lucky masses with their monthly themed photo galleries and now their Photographer of the Month series.
This month we continue with a group member from the UK who has lived in Shanghai for the past seven years. After being here a while, David Atkin found out about the Shanghai Exposed photography group like most … through a friend.
David is in a growing minority known as the “trailing spouse" or more affectionately coined a “guy-tai” where the female half of the couple is the reason for living in Shanghai.
After attending a photo (a.k.a. scavenger) hunt 3 years ago, he’s become a very big part of the group and regularly attends group meetings and photo road trips in and around Shanghai.
While the group shoots with a wide variety of camera makes and models, his trusty Leica M9 rarely fails him in capturing thought-provoking images.
Like most folks, he is a reluctant photographer; not so much in his ability, but his comfort in sharing his images with the rest of the world. By regularly coming to the group discussion meet ups where attendees are encouraged to bring and share their images, David says he's improved his photography. Practice makes perfect and constructive criticism gives you new eyes!
David also brings his sense of humor to the group. When asked what his favored photography genre is, he responds happily, “I like photographing people, especially the wrinkled!”. Photography has always been a passion and a hobby of his and he has little to no formal training in the classroom.
His training has been in the streets, down old demolition marked lanes, vast landscapes and busy markets. As we have mentioned before, no experience or training is required. Just having a camera and most importantly, a sense of adventure and general desire for a walkabout is all you need. David gives a few thoughts on life with camera in hand…
How has being part of Shanghai Exposed changed your skills and inspiration for taking to the streets of Shanghai and beyond?
The best thing about the group are the exploration of new districts and places in Shanghai. We are true urban adventurers. We also have to engage often to get the best photographs. So few of the expat community actually engage with the Shanghainese!
How has being part of the group enhanced your living and/or experiences here in Shanghai?
I've done more urban exploration and have a deeper understanding of the condition of our fellow citizens. Delay no more! Come join us exploring the streets of Shanghai!
Hear, hear David! If you’re curious about coming along for a walkabout with camera in hand with friendly and supportive folks, send us an email to be included on the invite list for the next photo meet up.
(1)(1).jpg)
0 User Comments