Chang Chih-Huei's approach to photography is genuinely unique. Each of his photographs carries the signature of his personally calibrated lens. These images are brought to life in the darkroom, where he expertly orchestrates a symphony of carefully mastered techniques— including enlarging, developing, fixing, washing, bathing, drying, heating, and pressing, among others.
For Zhang, true photography emerges at the confluence of light, chemistry, and artistic intent. This results in works that reverberate with a distinct character, reminiscent of the intricate handcrafted artifacts as opposed to their mass-produced equivalents.
Zhang's choice of black and white photography is deliberate, as he believes monochromatic hues present a restraint that allows a moment’s true essence to shine. He says, "Black and white is not the negation of color but a thoughtful decision to harness a focused palette, encapsulating fleeting moments with elegance." His compositions play with contrasts, inviting the audience into a layered interplay of light and shadow, resulting in a profound visual depth.
With a poetic sensibility, Zhang perceives beauty in every transient moment. He reflects, "Whether it's the hush brought by mists or the sensory orchestra of rain, nature always offers a canvas of wonders. If I miss Spring’s vibrant blooms, summer unfurls another colorful spectacle. For every sunrise I overlooked, a breathtaking sunset offers some redemption.” Through his lens, Zhang does not merely capture nature's ephemeral beauty; he eternalizes it, ushering viewers into pristine vistas that evoke deep reverence.
A cherished sentiment of Zhang's is encapsulated beautifully in Albert Camus' words: "Regardless of countless eyes that preceded mine, the vista before me is as fresh as the earth's first smile."
