Today, we’re featuring a wonderful series from film photographer J.Y. Huang. Here is more from J.Y. about capturing the series Not-So Complete Strangers…
From an early age, I was drawn to the stories of those not quite like me – to learn something new or to peek into a slow corner of the world from someone who lived life differently. At one point, this pull was so strong that I had wanted to become a journalist. I founded one of my high school’s papers and wrote articles for my university’s paper, but other considerations directed me away from the discipline. That detour proved to be a gift as, many years later, I feel that I am able to collect stories and portraits fueled by my own passion, unmarred by financial considerations or the demands of a specific readership.
Throughout 2024 and 2025, I created a series of portraits featuring complete strangers from around the world. What attracted me to film as a medium is the slower pace of taking someone in, there’s an intimacy in the pause it demands. You must sit with the person before you, or invite them to sit with you, and, in that shared space, something honest surfaces.
Analog cameras and films used: Canon QL17 (Find at KEH Camera or on eBay), Nikon F2 (Find at KEH Camera or on eBay) | Various black and white film stocks (Find on Amazon)
Connect with J.Y.: Website | Instagram
Check out all of our film photography features here, and if you want to have your own film work featured on the site, view our submissions process!
Shoot It With Film on Instagram
Leave a Comment