The word “photography” is derived from Greek. It means “to paint with light”. The Chinese word has a slightly different and more pround meaning. “Photography” – “to capture light and paint the shadow”. When there is light, there is shadow, but the Chinese definition puts emphasis on “shadow”, not “light”. The motive is more evocative, highlighting the different visions of the Chinese language.
When I first came into contact with photography, I didn’t think about the meaning of these two words, nor did I pay much care and attention. It was not until one day after reading an article that I seriously understood the meaning of these two words. The meaning of the word photography lingered in my mind for several days and lingered on. So I decided to shoot a scenario that could literally “see” the meaning of “painting with light”.
Photography
I pondered for some time what props I should use for the photography work. Suddenly I remembered the small kerosene lamp my grandfather used when I was a child. I remembered that it had a very beautiful shape, and the light it emitted was full of charm, which was perfect for my subject. Having made up my mind, I immediately searched for this kerosene lamp. Unfortunately, I searched everywhere and could not find it. This kind of kerosene lamp, as though has ‘disappeared’, no where to be found. No wonder, after all, it is now the twenty-first century, who cares about these kerosene lamps? It was only with great difficulty that I found one in a store that specialized in these rare products. I bought a pair immediately.
At night, I filled them with kerosene, replaced the wicks, lit them, and hung them on the wall. At once, a charming pattern appeared before my eyes! The light diffused from the two lamps reflected each other, emitting a beam of light pleasing to the eye. Cut through the darkness, painting a heart-stopping pattern on the wall. Everything is so natural, not the least bit pretentious.
Two ordinary oil lamps turned into magic when they were lit up, from “nothing” to “something”. Photography allows me to see the possibilities of various things and gives me a deeper sense and experience of art.