New Zealand native Jonathan Van Smit has been known for his passion for travel. He doesn't just travel from a tourist's point of view, but he makes sure to experience and fully immerse himself in the culture of an entirely different culture. In his latest series of photographs, Van Smit does exactly this in Hong Kong.
Rather than sticking to his comfort zone, Smit ventures outside and experiences the real, local Hong Kong. Through his photographs, we see a completely new and dramatic side to the Asian city -- something drastically different from what the majority of people would imagine.
The result is a collection of images that are far from our expectations as the pictures offer a completely different image to the glamorized urban metropolis, and instead, focuses on the theme of abandonment, the level of inequality and alienation that people face on a day to day basis. Each individual seen in the picture offers a story behind the pain, that can be seen either from the surroundings or their expressions.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Abandoned Urban Landscapes
- Opportunity for innovative urban revitalization projects that repurpose neglected spaces for community benefit.
- Inequality Awareness
- Potential for disruptive solutions addressing social and economic disparities through advocacy, technology, and policy changes.
- Authentic Cultural Immersion
- Opportunity for businesses in the tourism industry to offer immersive and authentic experiences, catering to travelers seeking a deeper understanding of local cultures.
Where This Applies
- Photography
- Exploring techniques and styles that capture the raw and unglamorous side of urban environments, challenging traditional perceptions.
- Urban Planning
- Reimagining urban spaces and infrastructure to improve livability, address inequality, and create more inclusive communities.
- Tourism
- Developing experiences that provide travelers with genuine and meaningful interactions with local cultures and communities.
