10 Questions with Tangyu Zhang

Tangyu Zhang is a photographer and freelance photojournalist based in Washington, DC, and she is celebrated for her evocative storytelling through the lens. Her portfolio reflects years of expertise in portrait and journalistic photography, combining technical precision with artistic depth. Tangyu’s work has been featured in and exhibited in numerous galleries, highlighting her focus on underrepresented communities, particularly LGBTQ and Asian women. She is currently working on two long-term photography projects supported by Women Photographers of Washington (WPOW), further underscoring her dedication to meaningful and socially conscious art.

Tangyu’s artistic vision centers on the belief that every individual has a story worth sharing. Her photographs aim to bridge the gap between the seen and the unseen, delving into themes of identity, resilience, and belonging. Whether capturing a fleeting glance, a complex emotion, or an untold narrative, she seeks to create work that resonates deeply with her audience.

Tangyu’s approach to photography is as much about connection as it is about technique. She strives to create spaces of trust and authenticity, allowing her subjects to reveal their truest selves. Her imagery, often raw and intimate, invites viewers to see the world through her empathetic lens, challenging stereotypes and celebrating diversity.

In addition to her documentary and portrait work, Tangyu is deeply inspired by the natural world and often integrates elements of nature into her photography. She views her art as an evolving journey, constantly enriched by exploration, experimentation, and reflection. Beyond the gallery walls, her work aspires to foster dialogue and understanding, reminding us of our shared humanity.

Driven by a desire to keep pushing boundaries, Tangyu is always seeking new perspectives and techniques to elevate her art. Photography, for her, is not just a profession but a means of connection, storytelling, and empowerment.

www.tangyuzhang.com

INTERVIEW

What initially drew you to photography? How did your interest spark and develop into the skilled photographer you are today?

From a young age, I was fascinated by films and imagery, captivated by their ability to tell stories visually. Growing up in the dynamic environment of Washington, D.C., I was surrounded by a mature and thriving journalism industry. This exposure introduced me to talented photographers whose work inspired me deeply. The city's emphasis on visual storytelling ignited my passion, and over time, through learning and practice, I transitioned from an observer to a creator. My journey has been shaped by continuously refining my craft and being open to learning from every experience and individual I photograph.

What does photography represent for you? And why did you choose it over other mediums?

Photography represents a reciprocal relationship for me. At first, it was a medium I used to express my curiosity and passion, but over time, it began to give back to me, shaping my understanding of the world and myself. I chose photography, particularly photojournalism, because of its immediacy and its focus on capturing moments under high-pressure conditions. These fleeting moments hold immense power, offering viewers a window into the heart of a story. Unlike other mediums, photography carries the raw energy of real-time creation, which is both challenging and exhilarating.

Are there any photographers that inspire you or you look up to?

I have been deeply inspired by photographers like Fan Ho and Vivian Maier. Fan Ho's cinematic compositions and poetic interpretation of urban life taught me the beauty of light and shadow, while Vivian Maier's quiet, observational approach to the everyday world continues to inspire me. Their work resonates because it reminds me of the importance of patience and an open heart when observing the world. Their ability to find profound stories in ordinary moments influences how I approach my own work.

Can you walk us through the process of creating a long-term photography project? How do you balance research, planning, and spontaneity?

Long-term photography projects demand a balance of meticulous planning and adaptability. I begin with extensive research to understand the subject deeply—this includes studying historical, cultural, or personal contexts. Then, I create a flexible framework to guide the project while leaving room for spontaneity. Real life often reveals unanticipated moments and shifts in perspective that enhance the narrative. I also revisit my work regularly to refine my approach and ensure the story stays honest and impactful.

Your work often highlights underrepresented communities, particularly LGBTQ and Asian women. How have your personal experiences influenced your decision to focus on these themes?

As a minority photographer working in the U.S., I've realized that my perspective is inherently unique. Growing up and navigating life with a blend of cultures has given me the ability to see nuances others might overlook. This personal experience fuels my desire to focus on LGBTQ and Asian women's stories, which are often underrepresented. My goal isto use my lens to highlight their voices, bridging gaps in understanding and celebrating their resilience and complexity.

Your photographs create a sense of trust and authenticity. How do you build this connection with your subjects, especially when dealing with sensitive or personal stories?

Building trust takes time and genuine effort. One or two meetings are rarely enough to sustain a meaningful photographic story. I often share my own experiences to create a sense of mutual understanding and connection. By openly communicating and listening to my subjects, I foster a safe space where they feel comfortable sharing their stories. The authenticity in my photographs comes from these honest exchanges and the relationships we build together.

Your work explores themes of identity, resilience, and belonging, as you mention in your statement. Are there specific stories or experiences that have deeply resonated with you and shaped your artistic vision?

By chance, I encountered a group of women whose humor and resilience left a lasting impression on me. Each of them had endured hardships but managed to transform their struggles into humor, integrating it into their personalities in a way that was captivating. Through them, I realized the absurdity of glorifying suffering as a defining trait of womanhood. Instead, these women taught me the power of taking control and rewriting the rules of the world on one's own terms. Their stories shaped how I approach themes of resilience and belonging, reminding me that empowerment often comes from the ability to transcend challenges with strength and wit.

Your photography blends technical precision with artistic depth. How do you balance these aspects to maintain both narrative integrity and visual impact?

Technical precision serves as the foundation for storytelling, ensuring clarity and professionalism. At the same time, artistic depth allows me to imbue each image with emotion and meaning. I work to integrate these elements seamlessly, focusing on composition, lighting, and technique while remaining attuned to the mood and story unfolding before me. The goal is to ensure the technical aspects never overshadow the humanity of the narrative.

You're working on two long-term projects supported by Women Photographers of Washington (WPOW). Can you share details about these projects and the messages you aim to convey?

For one project, I am documenting the lives of two individuals from marginalized communities, capturing the intricacies of their daily experiences and exposing every detail of their lives through my lens. This approach allows their stories to emerge organically, offering viewers an intimate understanding of their humanity. By following their lives closely, I aim to break down stereotypes and convey the universal emotions and struggles that connect us all, emphasizing the dignity and complexity of underrepresented communities.

As an artist committed to pushing boundaries, what new perspectives or techniques are you eager to explore in your future work?

In the future, I hope to document more marginalized groups, finding innovative ways to tell their stories. I'm particularly interested in experimenting with nonlinear timelines and alternative perspectives to provide a fresh lens on their experiences. Additionally, I aim to incorporate mixed media and interactive storytelling techniques to push the boundaries of traditional photography and create a more immersive experience for viewers.

Artist’s Talk

Al-Tiba9 Interviews is a promotional platform for artists to articulate their vision and engage them with our diverse readership through a published art dialogue. The artists are interviewed by Mohamed Benhadj, the founder & curator of Al-Tiba9, to highlight their artistic careers and introduce them to the international contemporary art scene across our vast network of museums, galleries, art professionals, art dealers, collectors, and art lovers across the globe.