Vitae

Ted Lau is a self-taught, Hong Kong-born photographer whose work reflects a unique blend of Western influences and their Asian heritage. With an innate passion for capturing moments and exploring the artistry of photography, Ted has developed a distinctive style that resonates with viewers around the world.

Growing up in the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of Hong Kong, Ted was exposed to a rich blend of cultures and artistic expressions. Inspired by the captivating urban landscapes, bustling streets, and diverse communities, they began documenting their surroundings at a young age, using a camera as a tool for self-expression.

Although Ted  is primarily self-taught, their commitment to honing their craft and expanding their technical skills is evident in their work. Through extensive experimentation and a tireless pursuit of knowledge, they have developed a mastery of composition, lighting, and storytelling, capturing both the raw emotions of their subjects and the ethereal beauty of their surroundings.

One of the distinguishing aspects of Ted's work is their fusion of Western influences with their Asian heritage. Drawing inspiration from renowned photographers and artistic movements from around the world, they have skillfully merged these influences with their own cultural roots, resulting in a visual narrative that is both captivating and thought-provoking.

The photographs created by Ted often showcase a deep appreciation for the interplay of light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere that adds an intriguing dimension to their images. Their keen eye for detail and ability to capture decisive moments further enhances the emotional impact of their work.

Ted's portfolio encompasses a wide range of subjects, from stunning landscapes and architectural marvels to intimate portraits and street photography. Their versatility allows them to explore various genres while maintaining a cohesive style that is uniquely their own.

With an ever-evolving body of work and a passion for pushing artistic boundaries, Ted continues to captivate audiences with their thought-provoking and visually striking photographs. Their work serves as a testament to the power of self-expression and the ability of photography to transcend cultural boundaries.

Ted is an inspiring example of a self-taught artist who has carved their own path in the world of photography, leaving an indelible mark with their unique perspective and creative vision.

Statement

My works are not limited to any specific category of photography. I never intentionally set out to produce work about a particular subject or another. For me, art is a feeling, it does not require context, it does not require a backstory to make sense of it. A work of art should be a viceral thing and it should transcent culture, background and culture. The body and mind should understand and resonate with it as a pure form of visual stimulus. Without that, the image has failed.

There are places in the world and in Hong Kong that interest me, and I allow myself to follow that interest. With my camera and tripod, I would wander the streets without a guide or a map and look for a moment of inspiration. Ignoring road signs and directions, I follow my instincts where it leads me. These excursions are not always fruitful. It is like the black and white of the Yin-Yang, all aspects of the image has to be balanced. Harmony is what I look for in an image. When I have the faint sense of an image coming together, I then impart my way of looking. I try to capture images from a different angle and not be confined by the old established aesthetic while creating a timeless piece at the same time. The image can be minimalist or multi-layered, but everything within the frame needs to align perfectly, in great balance.

Awards

2020 6th Fine Art Photography Awards Winner (Professional - People)

2020 WPO Sony World Photography Awards Finalist (Open Competition - Creative)

2020 San Francisco Bay International Photography Awards Gold Award

2020 Vienna International Photo Award Third Place (Free Subject)

2020 Athens Photo Festival Shortlisted

2020 Urban Photo Awards Honourable Mention (Creative)

2020 International Photography Awards Honourable Mention (Professional - Fine Art, Editorial)

2019 Feature Shoot Emerging Photography Awards Winner

2019 Travel Photographer of the Year Finalist (Portfolio - Highly Commended; Single Image - Special Mention)

2019 Urban Photo Awards Finalist (Creative)

2019 Siena International Photo Awards Finalist (Professional - Landscape

2019 PX3 Prix de la Photographie Paris Honourable Mention (Professional - Fine Art)

2019 The 13th Annual International Color Awards Honourable Mention (Professional - Architecture, People, Nature)

2018 Chinese International Photography Awards Second Place (Professional - Nature)

2018 Chinese International Photography Awards Third Place (Professional - Fine Art, Architecture)

2018 Better Photography Photo of the Year Bronze Award (Creative Flair, Exotic Travel, Classic Landscape)

2018 International Photography Awards OneShot : Street Photography Honourable Mention (Professional - Urban Scenery, People)

2018 Chinese International Photography Awards Honourable Mention (Professional - Fine Art)

2018 The 12th Annual International Color Awards Honourable Mention (Professional - Advertising)

2018 The 12th Annual International Color Awards Nominee (Professional- Architecture, People)

2018 International Photography Awards Honourable Mention (Professional - Fine Art, Nature, Sports, Editorial: Photo Essay and Feature Story)

2018 The 13th Annual Black & White Spider Awards Nominee (Professional - Abstract, Wildlife, People, Nature, Sport, Children of the World)

2018 PX3 Prix de la Photographie Paris Bronze Winner (Amateur - Advertising)

2017 Tokyo International Foto Awards Silver Winner (Student - Fine Art Still Life)

2017 Tokyo International Foto Awards Bronze Winner (Student - Advertising Product, Nature Wildlife)

Exhibitions

2020 Travel Photographer of the Year Winners Exhibition, Coal Drops Yard, London

2020 Travel Photographer of the Year Winners Exhibition, Chester Cathedral, UK

2020 Travel Photographer of the Year Winners Exhibition, Xposure International Photography Festival, UAE

2020 Feature Shoot Emerging Photography Awards Winners Exhibition, Aperture Foundation-Burden Gallery, New York