Hi folks,

It has been a long time, hasn’t it?

After nearly two decades of being involved with photography, I have come to realize that for me, photography is not merely about preserving memories, reflecting perspectives, or satisfying creative urges—it is, in large part, about suffering. Initially, there were the physical pains: the abrasions on my skin caused by the constant friction of camera straps during shoots, and then the chest pain and shortness of breath from wearing cameras on my chest for extended periods. These pains could be mitigated with proper techniques or equipment.

The greatest pain I often ignored was back pain.

From the very first day I picked up a camera, I experienced sharp, numbing pains in my back. At that time, I reasoned that these were just part of being a photographer. If others in the field could endure it, why couldn’t I? I continually motivated myself with this line of thinking.

It wasn’t until nearly fifteen years later, when the pain became more severe, to the point where sometimes I couldn’t move on my own bed, that I finally went for a check-up and discovered a congenital spinal malformation. This condition caused spinal misalignment, early formation of double vertebrae, and current degeneration. If this had been due to an injury, I might have had to give up walking altogether. However, due to being born with this condition, my body had adapted over time, allowing me to live a relatively normal life. My doctor advised me to stop any activities that exacerbated my back pain, including two of my greatest passions: martial arts and photography.

I am writing this as a sigh, pouring out the sentiments of a photographer who has endured physical limitations in pursuit of his craft. In photography, physical health is a direct factor influencing one’s visual language. With the health and age I currently have, if I am to continue with photography, I must change my visual language, making it more suitable for the remaining years of my life.

Though there is some sadness in this, I feel fulfilled in having fully committed myself to my love for photography. I truly regret nothing about the path I’ve chosen. In general, I have shot enough and always give it my all when behind the camera. I liken photography to suffering, borrowing a phrase from Buddhism that life is suffering. Yet, mentally, I am mostly in a state of satisfaction and fulfillment, with family, work, and friends.

Despite walking the path of photography with physical pains, my spirit remains consistently fulfilled on the journey I undertake.

This opening blog post for 2026 is somewhat lackluster, but not truly sad either. It’s simply a heartfelt confession to bring me—and you (my reader[s]) —closer in spirit. We are somewhat alike, we all face challenges when it comes to photography. What matters most is finding your ideal on this path and boldly continuing forward.

Affectionately,
Your Obedient Servant