Wing Shya Opens the Vault in New ‘Day / Night’ Polaroid Collection

by

Summary

  • Hong Kong-based photographer releases Day / Night, a new Polaroid photo book, with Jane & Jeremy.
  • The collection features over 100 images take over the last 30 years, including portraits, personal captures and behind-the-scenes images from Wong Kar-wai’s Happy Together and In the Mood For Love.

In terms of cinematography for films, Hong Kong native Wing Shya stands out as exceptional. This talent was noticed early by Wong Kar-wai, who quickly brought him on board as his photographer for still images. Since then, Shya has been a powerful influence in shaping some of the most striking visuals in modern cinema, leaving a mark that is closely associated with atmospheric, emotionally intense, and sensual imagery.

Working with publisher Jane & Jeremy based in Brighton, Shya is set to publish “Day / Night“, a fresh photobook showcasing approximately 100 polaroids captured over three decades. This unique compilation intertwines personal photographs, heartfelt portraits, and exclusive, behind-the-scenes images from iconic films directed by Wong Kar-wai, such as “Happy Together” and “In the Mood For Love“.

The story progresses in two distinct sections: Day and Night. The initial part is characterized by a lively spontaneity and a soft, daylight ambiance, while the latter explores darker emotions. By blending time and mood, they both portray the transient, poetic instances of daily existence.

Shya reminisced about how it all began with him working as a stills photographer on set. Back then, polaroids were the only way to instantly capture and share moments since not everyone had a camera yet. Over the years, these polaroids amassed into a vast collection of thousands of spontaneous moments. Although they may have been unintentional, he found great pleasure in viewing the curated selection by J&J, which seemed to be an unconscious visual narrative that had been communicating with him through his photographs all along.

Day / Night is now available for purchase via Jane & Jeremy’s website for £60.00 GBP.

Read More

2025-05-29 21:26