I am Joseph Lai, a full-time publicist and amateur photographer. I was heavily influenced by my father, Cheng Ying Lai, who is the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award at Taiwan's 2022 Golden Horse Film Festival. I've always been fascinated by the behind-the-scenes photos taken on location when he was filming.

I started taking photography seriously during the pandemic when I was forced to work from home. I also took some classes at local universities where I learned the basics and took the time to go out, shoot, and experiment. You can also see me often at local photo bookstores and exhibitions studying other people's work (famous or not). A lot of inspiration comes from fellow artists (not just photographers).

My job is one way of dealing with a stressful work life. However, I think in every photo there is a story and a moment that I can always reflect on that specific moment in my life. It's a way to know that I have lived and enjoyed life.

Some friends have said that my photos require imagination to understand. This is an honor because it means that my photos invoke thoughts and feelings. I don't intend every photo to be technically perfect (to me that is professional photography).

I am absolutely thrilled.

The two photos were RUN in People Photography – Street and BEFORE SUNSET in Nature Photography ––Sunset. I like to take high-contrast photos and, as mentioned above, require some imagination to understand, which means that the audience can make up their own story.

I think it is more important to develop a "keen eye" rather than fixate on "the equipment." Read lots of photo books (not photography books), where you can find inspiration to serve as examples of finding your style.

Be diligent and not discouraged by having a "bad photography day." As with life, photography has its ups and downs.