From Nomad to Lockdown to Legacy: Jace Yang Captures the Humanistic Soul of City Streets with Delicate, Immersive Atmosphere and Powerfully Expressive Observation
An Exclusive Interview with Pure Street Photography
Discover how Yang’s nomadic life shaped his unique approach to street photography. From his choice of vintage lenses to his deep connection with fleeting urban moments, he reveals how observing life through a fresh lens can turn everyday scenes into timeless stories.
Interview by Dimpy Bhalotia and Kamal Kumaar Rao
19/03/2025
(c) Jace Yang
(c) Jace Yang
We would love to know more about you! Who you are and where you're from? When did you start street photography?
I was born in Seoul, South Korea, but I’ve spent most of my life hopping between different countries—nine in total! Living in so many places has given me the chance to experience all kinds of cultures, meet incredible people, and see the world from a pretty unique perspective.
My love for photography goes way back to high school when I used to develop my own film and prints. I was really into it, but, like a lot of things, life happened. I ended up in the typical 9-to-5 job, and photography slowly shifted from being a serious passion to more of a laid-back hobby.
What inspired you to become a street photographer?
Covid-19 changed life for so many people around the world, and my wife and I were no exception. We were living in Shanghai during the intense three-month lockdown, stuck inside our apartment with nowhere to go. It was a surreal and challenging experience, but it also gave me a lot of time to reflect on how much I missed the bustling of the city streets and their people. This life changing experience reignited my passion for photography—specifically, capturing the raw energy of city streets and the people who bring them to life.
When we finally stepped outside after months of confinement, everything felt different. Even the smallest, most ordinary alleys seemed to have a new kind of beauty, like I was seeing the city with fresh eyes. I felt this overwhelming urge to document those moments—not just as memories, but as a reminder of how quickly life can change and how much we take for granted.
How would you describe your work in terms of style and/or approach?
I wouldn't say I've developed a distinct style just yet—I’m still exploring and refining that aspect. If my approach to everyday life is any indication, my photographic preferences will likely continue to evolve. However, there are two elements I consistently gravitate toward as my canvas for photography: street and people. No matter how my style develops, I believe these two will always remain at the heart of my work.
(c) Jace Yang
(c) Jace Yang
What is your photography routine like? Do you photograph every day?
I travel frequently for work, often to the same cities, but I always try to set aside time for photography whenever I can. Even though my destinations are routine, enough time passes between visits for me to notice the subtle shifts in each city's atmosphere.
When I'm home, I make an effort to go out on weekends, exploring new ways to capture familiar places and moments from fresh perspectives.
What camera or mobile device do you use for photography? Do you shoot digitally, on film, or a mix of both?
shoot digital with a combination of Fujifilm and Leica cameras. For fast-paced photography or low-light conditions, I primarily rely on my Fujifilm X-T5.
Otherwise, I enjoy shooting with my old Leica M9-P, paired with a selection of vintage lenses. What I love most about the M9-P is the unique color rendition of its Kodak CCD sensor. While I wouldn’t call it film-like, it has a distinct character that sets it apart from modern digital cameras—something that becomes even more pronounced when combined with vintage glass.
What challenges do you face when photographing on the street?
My biggest challenge is myself—more specifically, my hesitation.
Hesitation to take the shot, only to miss the moment.
Hesitation to get closer to my subject, fearing a harsh reaction.
Hesitation to step outside because the sun isn’t shining.
Hesitation is the biggest headwind against my progress.
Do you ever wonder what happens to the people in your photos?
Not often, to be honest. That might sound cold or indifferent, but that’s not the reason why.
In my photos, people aren’t usually the main focus—I’m more drawn to capturing the atmosphere of the city streets, with people as part of that environment. But there are moments when someone leaves a lasting impression, and I can’t help but wonder what became of them.
I remember once photographing a young girl, maybe 12 years old, selling paper lanterns by a river. She was far too young to be selling something on the streets, and the sight of her broke my heart. I eventually misplaced that photo, but her face has stayed with me ever since.
(c) Jace Yang
(c) Jace Yang
(c) Jace Yang
In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception people have about street photography?
That’s a good question—I’ve never really thought deeply about how others might perceive street photography.
If I had to guess, I’d say some people might think it’s easy, or just a matter of randomly snapping photos while walking around. I can understand why a non-photographer might see it that way. Like anything else, you don’t truly appreciate what goes into it until you try it yourself. I’ve certainly been guilty of that with other things too.
What are your favourite elements to capture in a street photograph? (light, colour, composition, human interaction, etc.)
I like to capture the streets, people, and color—with a nostalgic touch.
I primarily shoot in color because it adds a sense of time and place, grounding the moment in its unique atmosphere
What is your take on social media influence on street photography?
Like most things in life, I see social media’s influence on photography as a double-edged sword—a bit of a love-hate relationship.
On one hand, it’s an incredible tool for discovering the work of talented photographers from all over the world. On the other, it has, to some extent, turned photos into disposable content, quickly flicked past in an endless stream of images.
I try not to judge these shifts but rather observe them as part of the ever-evolving landscape of photography.
Are your prints available for purchase? If so, where can art buyers and collectors contact you to purchase them?
I haven't gotten around to making my prints available yet. If anyone is interested, you can always DM me on my @oddly.blurry Instagram account.
(c) Jace Yang
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers?
I think having a camera with you wherever you go is always a good idea.
Personally, I spend a lot of time watching YouTube videos and reading photography books by more experienced photographers. Observing their work has been an endless source of learning and inspiration for me.
And lastly—it might sound cliché, but shoot what you love and what makes you happy. That’s what truly matters.
A huge thank you to Jace Yang for sharing his incredible journey.
In Frame : Jace Yang