by Yvette Depaepe
Published the 16^th of October 2023

To Jenny Qiu, photography is a language, a way to communicate stories, moments, and emotions that words often fall short of expressing. She quotes : 'Photography challenges me, comforts me, and constantly reminds me of the intricate tapestry of human experiences. Therefore, photography is both my muse and my medium, a timeless companion in my journey of exploration and expression.'  I would like to take you on a journey through her portfolio today, and share more about her through this interview.

'The Windmill Farm at Dawn'

Dear  Jenny, first I would like to thank you for taking the time to answer this questionnaire! To begin, please introduce yourself shortly and tell us more about you, your hobbies or other projects you are involved in!

First of all, I am very honoured and would like to thank Yvette for the opportunity to be interviewed for the 1x magazine.  My name is Jenny Qiu, and I am an amateur landscape and wildlife photographer based in San Francisco Bay Area, and a proud mother of two wonderful sons.  Currently I am working as a senior software engineer in a local water district.  Photography is my primary hobby, and I dedicate a substantial portion of my leisure time to it. In addition to photography, I take pleasure in activities such as reading, music, travel, and cooking.

'Sunset at Dallas Divide Pass'

When and how did you start your photographic journey?

Being a photographer has been my lifelong dream. As a child, the sheer joy of being photographed ignited my passion, planting the seed that one day I would be the artist behind the lens, capturing fleeting moments in time. It wasn't until my graduate studies in Geology that I was handed a camera to document evidence in the field for a research project, I found myself finally holding the tool that had long stirred my passion, yet it was merely the act of capturing images rather than true photography.

'The Dream of Butterflies'

It wasn't until 2013, after my children had grown more independent and I managed to carve out moments from my full-time job and childcare responsibilities, that I could truly devote myself to the photography. During the initial stages of this journey, I immersed myself in photography books and engaged in conversations with photographer friends, eagerly absorbing knowledge.  A few months down the line, I enrolled in a local weekend photography class. It was there that I learned a pivotal skill—one that couldn't be gleaned from the pages of books—how to observe light and shadow, and when the shutter should be pressed.

'Spring at TriValley'

For many of us photography is either a hobby or a way of life. How would you define your relationship with photography?

Photography, for me, is a language, a way to communicate stories, moments, and emotions that words often fall short of expressing.  Every time I look through the viewfinder, I feel a deep connection with the world around me, seeing beauty in both the mundane and the extraordinary. It's a dance between light and shadow, a quest to capture the fleeting essence of time. More than just a way of life, photography is a lens through which I view, interpret, and engage with the world. It challenges me, comforts me, and constantly reminds me of the intricate tapestry of human experiences. Therefore, photography is both my muse and my medium, a timeless companion in my journey of exploration and expression.

'A Magic Night'

What would be the most important experience so far that has influenced your steps in photography?

Photography is a lifelong journey, punctuated by significant milestones that invigorate and propel me forward. Among these markers, there are a few events that stand out—moments when my passion for photography was not only validated but also infused with renewed energy.
A mere few months after embarking on this path, one of my images was chosen for the cover of a magazine. This experience became a powerful catalyst, giving me motivation in my photographic pursuits and tirelessly hone my skills.
From 2017 to 2023, I had the honour of serving as a judge for the Global Annual Chinese New Year Photo Competitions organized by the North American Photograph Association. This endeavour exposed me to an extensive array of entries, nurturing my appreciation for the artistry and diversity within the world of photography.

'O Beautiful'

In addition, I've been approached by friends and even strangers to capture portraits and document events. Soon after embarking on my photography journey, while I was photographing in a local park, a young lady came up to me. She asked if I would be willing to take her wedding pictures during the upcoming weekend at the same park. Despite explaining that I was still a learner without much experience, she remained insistent, expressing her desire for me to give it a try. Eventually, I agreed and documented her wedding ceremony without any charge.  Upon delivering the wedding pictures to her and her family, their genuine appreciation for my efforts was truly heart-warming. These opportunities have left a lasting impact on me, and show me the potential of using my photographic skills to serve and support others. They have added a deeper sense of purpose and connection to my growth journey.

'Sunrise at the Reflection Lake'

You have your very own style. Why are you so drawn by landscape and wildlife photography?

Geology and Environmental Science were my majors during my undergraduate and graduate years, and fieldwork was a significant component of my studies. The more time I spent in the field, the stronger my attraction grew towards the natural beauty around me.  It became natural for me to focus on the landscape when I started learning photography.  Delving deep into the art of landscape photography, I found myself forging an even stronger bond with the natural world.  Every sunrise and sunset, every changing season brings with it a unique palette of colours, moods, and emotions. It's a dance of light and shadow, of vast horizons and intricate details. Capturing these moments feels like preserving a piece of the Earth's soul, a testament to its timeless beauty.

'The Lonely Tree'

I started wildlife photography during the covid pandemic.  The region where I reside tends to become arid and uninteresting for landscape photography during the summer through fall seasons due to the absence of rain. With travel restrictions in place and limited possibilities for landscape photography during the dry season, my attention naturally gravitated toward local wildlife photography. As I embarked on this new journey, I was deeply moved by the intricacies of wildlife behaviours, particularly the displays of affection and interaction between parents and their offspring. These moments etched themselves deep within me, infusing my art with newfound inspiration and meaning.

'Dancing with Water'

What is more important to you, the mood,/story behind your images or the technical perfection?

I would say that the mood and story behind an image take precedence.  While technical aspects like sharpness, exposure, and composition are undeniably crucial, they are tools to aid the storytelling process, not the end goal in themselves.
Photography is a form of expression. It's about evoking emotions, conveying a message, and connecting with the viewer on a deeper level. An image that tells a compelling story or captures a powerful mood can resonate with people, even if it's not technically perfect. On the other hand, a technically flawless photograph that lacks emotion or narrative might not leave a lasting impact.  Therefore, I think, while technical perfection is a valuable pursuit, it is the mood and story that breathe life into the images and define the photographic voice.

'The Art of Sand and Wind'

What generally is your relationship to your subject matter beyond being an observer?
Do you prepare carefully the locations where you are intending to photograph?

As a photographer, I always try to relate myself to subject matter beyond that of a mere observer. I strive to be a participant and a storyteller. Whether I'm capturing landscapes, people, or wildlife, I strive to immerse myself in the environment and connect with the essence of the moment.
I usually select photograph locations carefully.  I believe that understanding a location, its history, and its significance can greatly enhance the depth and context of the photographs. Before heading to a location, I will research the area to understand the best times to shoot, potential challenges, and any cultural or environmental sensitivities I should be aware of.
However, while preparation is crucial, I also leave room for spontaneity. Some of the most magical moments are unplanned, born out of sheer serendipity. It's this balance between preparation and being open to the unexpected that often leads to the most spectacular images.

'The Trees'

Describe your overall photographic vision.

My photographic vision is centered around the idea of "capturing the intangible." In a world that's constantly in motion, where moments are fleeting and often overlooked, I aim to freeze those ephemeral instances that evoke deep emotions, tell untold stories, or simply showcase the beauty of the ordinary.
I believe that every photograph is a dialogue between the photographer and the viewer. Through my lens, I strive to communicate not just what I see, but what I feel. Whether it is the serenity of a tranquil landscape, or the intricate emotions conveyed by the movements of wildlife, my goal is to transport the viewer into that moment, to make them feel a part of the narrative.

'In the Fogs'

Technique and equipment are tools, but the soul of photography lies in observation, empathy, and a deep-rooted passion for storytelling. I seek to find the extraordinary in the ordinary, to showcase perspectives that might otherwise go unnoticed, and to create images that resonate, inspire, and provoke thought. In essence, my photographic vision is a journey—a quest to explore, understand, and share the myriad shades of life, one frame at a time.

'Sunrise at East Bay'

What are the main features of a successful landscape / wildlife photographer in your opinion?

In my opinion, successful landscape and wildlife photographers have unwavering passion and exceptional patience, and possess a combination of technical skills, artistic sensibility, dedication, and a profound connection to their subjects and surroundings. True success in this realm is achieved by those who not only produce visually stunning images but also cultivate a genuine connection to the subjects they capture and the environments they work in.

'Milky Way at the Cracked Eggs Field'

Can you please tell us something more about your workflow from the idea to the final product?

My main photography workflow usually involves the following steps:

1.      Research and Planning: When I come across a picturesque scene during a hike or while browsing the internet, I will first initiate a research process using satellite, 3D, or street maps to acquaint myself further with the location, then, if feasible, I will make an effort to physically visit the location to observe it first-hand. This allows me to determine the possible spot for setting up camera and ascertain the best times—whether it's sunrise, sunset, or another moment—to capture the essence of the location.

2.      Photographing:  During photograph trip, I will first walk around the pre-selected location to decide the best spot for composing the picture, then set up the tripod, and wait for the right moment to shoot.  I usually use exposure bracketing for sunrise and sunset pictures.

3.      Post-processing: My post-processing phase begins with importing the images into Lightroom for initial adjustments, which often involve fine-tuning contrast, brightness, sharpness, and colour saturation. After that, I select a few images for more intricate refinement within Photoshop. After these initial processing is completed, I usually adopt a patient approach by waiting a few days before revisiting the previously processed images. This interval allows me to re-evaluate the results and implement any further adjustments, if necessary, before finalizing the images.

'A Foggy Morning'

Where do you look to find inspiration and what inspires you the most?

For me, 1x.com stands as an inexhaustible wellspring of inspiration. Within its online gallery, a plethora of masterpieces by gifted photographers come to life. My particular fascination lies in the realms of landscape, wildlife, and still life images. It's within these genres that I find myself captivated by the adept composition, the play of light, and the artful nuances of post-processing that breathe life into each image.

'The Wings at Dusk'

Many are of the opinion that the gear is not very important when the passion for photography is strong. However, can you please share with us what gear you use (camera, lenses, lighting, tripod, etc.)?

Currently, I use Canon EOS 6D and 5D Mark IV cameras. The lenses I primarily use are the EF 16-35mm f/2.8, EF 24-105mm f/4, and EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6. I am considering an upgrade to a faster-focusing camera, like Canon EOS R5, along with acquiring longer focus RF lenses for wildlife photography in the future.

What would be your favourite photo? Please tell us the story behind it.

'Valley View after Snow'

Captured during the winter of 2022, this photograph titled 'Valley View after Snow' is one of my favourites.
Yosemite National Park, located about three and half hours’ drive from my home, is one of my favourite places for photography, especially when it transforms into a winter wonderland, draped in a pristine blanket of snow. It is a challenge to photograph the Yosemite winter wonderland due to the unpredictable accumulation of snow in the valley.  Typically, the snow initiates its melting process shortly after the snowfall concludes. Consequently, timing becomes paramount—arriving at the valley before the end of snowfall would be the best. This often requires navigating to the park amid heavy snowstorms, a task that presents an additional challenge for those of us more accustomed to non-snowy areas. I took numerous winter trips to Yosemite in the hope of capturing the beautiful winter scenes but all previous trips ended without the desired outcome due to insufficient snow cover.
Luckily, winter of 2022 presented an exceptional opportunity. Several substantial snowstorms graced the region. Seizing the moment, I joined fellow photographers during one of these storms and reached the valley before the snowfall subsided. The trees lining the riverbanks and the rocks in the water were adorned with a fresh layer of glistening snow—an embodiment of the winter scene I had envisioned and longed to capture.
As we set up our equipment on the riverbank, the sky remained overcast. Anticipation filled the air—would sunlight pierce through the cloud cover? Our patience was rewarded when, at last, a golden glow broke free from the clouds, illuminating the summit of El Capitan. It was a magical moment we had hoped for. Without hesitation, I clicked the shutter, forever preserving this enchanting interplay of light and landscape.

Who are your favourite photographers or mentors whose works have influenced you and your photography?

My journey has been profoundly influenced  by a multitude of photographers, many of whom are esteemed members of the 1x photography community. Allow me to highlight just a handful among them: Ansel Adams, Mark Adams, Jianzhong Cai, John Fan, Mei Xu, Huibo Hou, Rob Li, Cimin Mei, and Dianne Mao. Their remarkable works and passion have set the gold standard that I aspire to attain in my own journey through photography.

'The Swan Lake'

Now, since we have almost reached the end of this interview, I would kindly ask you to share with us your plans or photographic projects you would like to be involved in.

For many years, my photographic focus has primarily centered around the vicinity of my home. However, now that my children have grown and I have more leisure time for pursuits I cherish. I plan to travel more and capture the beauty of the world beyond the home base.  Specific regions that have piqued my interest include the enchanting Dolomites in Italy and the breathtaking Patagonia area in South America, as well as the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountain region and the majestic South-west circle in the United States.

'The Shiprock at Dawn'

Is there anything else you wish to add what do you think about 1X as a home base for your work?

I consider 1x the highest esteem as a sanctified platform dedicated to the pursuit of photographic perfection. I still remember the joy and excitement when my first photo was published on 1x. Despite having close to 300 photos published now, I am just as excited every time a new photo is approved for publication.  I often introduce and encourage friends to join 1x.com.
1x is a great platform for us to create a portfolio, to display our works, and to continue learning and improving.  I am proud to be a member of this community.

'Dusk at the Wings'

I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to Yvette for providing me with the chance to share my photographic journey and thoughts with fellow photographers.  I would also like to extend my thanks to all the 1x crew members for their efforts in creating and maintaining such an outstanding online photo gallery and platform for us.

'Coyote in Winter'

'Fox Mother and Cub'

'Bombi in a Spring Morning'