“It is impossible to define a great photograph, as everyone has their own standards. For myself, a photograph which is taken with warmth and love and can make you smile, is a great photograph.”

Even on his images of massive cities and big crowds Taiwan based photographer Penguin Kao manages to emit quiescence and bloom. Overall his work feels like a splendid summary full of contrast of city and nature, individuals and crowds, Asian tradition and modern developments.

Which photographers influenced you?

One of the photographers who influenced me is Hideaki Hamada. His photographs have so much warmth and depth to them. Although most of them are about daily life, their simplicity leaves a lasting impression on me. The simplest things in life are the ones we tend to neglect the most, and he shows us the details of life that we have missed.

You shoot portraits, culture and landscapes. When it comes to these three types of photography, do you favor one over the others?

My favourite is still portrait photography. Only by capturing people can we bring out the real emotion through a photograph.

What makes a great photograph?

It is impossible to define a great photograph, as everyone has their own standards. For myself, a photograph which is taken with warmth and love and can make you smile, is a great photograph.

What motivates you to continue taking pictures?

I like to record the beautiful things that happen in front of me. Only through photography can I stop the time in a beautiful and touching moment.

What’s one thing you’re most proud of so far?

Photography has allowed me to make so many friends, understand the world better and capture the beautiful moments of life. It has also taught me how to record the moments of my family and friends, and for me that is really great.

What was the last lie you told?

Shhhh… I don’t lie!!