by Yvette Depaepe
Published the 19^th of January 2026

Weiwei has her own unique style, revealing that overlooked corners, ordinary light and shadows, and fleeting emotions can be transformed into delightful storytelling images. She has a deep passion for photography. It enables her to observe the world and express her inner self. She has a charming personality, much like her photographs.
Join me for this interview to find out more about this talented artist.

'snowy night'

Dear Weiwei, please could you tell us a little about yourself, your hobbies, and any other jobs you have had?

My name is Weiwei Fong. I was born in China and immigrated to Canada in 1990. I work in a cosmetics laboratory, where I deal with colour on a daily basis. In my spare time, I enjoy music, singing, reading, travelling and photography.

‘Mother and Daughter’

In what ways have your life experiences and personal history influenced your photography?

My greatest influence is my husband, who is a passionate photography enthusiast. I often modelled for him, and after each shoot, we would discuss composition, tonal qualities and themes. These conversations laid the groundwork for me and, more importantly, taught me to see the world through the lens.

‘Memory’

Which experiences have influenced your art the most?

Joining the Atlantic Photography Association in 2020 was a pivotal moment. With the support of two mentors, Emma Zhao and Sean Huang, I started studying mobile photography despite being a complete beginner. Their teaching revealed to me that overlooked corners, ordinary light and shadow, and fleeting emotions could all be captured in images that tell stories. This realisation sparked a deep passion for photography — it became a way not only to document life, but also to observe the world and express my inner self.

‘Corridor’

Describe your overall photographic vision.

I aim to use my artistic sensibility to capture the present moment, express it and enjoy it, all the while walking my own path. Through continuous learning, I strive to become the best version of myself.

‘Morning Mist’

Why are you so drawn to creatively edited photography?

Creative editing transforms emotions into vivid imagery. Faded colours and weathered textures evoke the haze of memory, while blending figures with natural elements reflects the fluidity of identity. It interlaces time and space, turning metaphors, memories and dreams into layered visual narratives.

‘Sunday’

Which is more important to you: the mood or story behind your images, or technical perfection?

Personally, I believe that the mood and story behind an image are more important. While technical perfection can enhance visual precision, it is the emotional core and narrative depth of an image that truly make it resonate. Technique is a tool; mood and story are the soul of art. Ideally, the two work together, but if I had to choose, I would value the 'soul' over the 'bones'.

‘There’s Sunshine Ahead’

What is your relationship with your subject matter beyond being an observer?

I am an observer, learning about my subjects in my own way and conveying my inner understanding of them through images. My work seeks to reveal this connection. I never prepare anything in advance — everything happens naturally, guided by intuition and the moment.

‘A Little Red House’

What equipment do you use, such as cameras, lenses and bags?

I only use my iPhone, along with the Slow Shutter app. This allows me to blur flowing water, stretch light trails and capture the movement of crowds, making time 'visible'. The phone's low intrusiveness also helps me to discreetly capture genuine emotions in street scenes.

‘Shadow’

Which software do you use to edit your photos?

I use Snapseed, particularly the double exposure and selective adjustment tools, to transform everyday scenes into the images I have in mind.

‘Passing’

Could you tell us a little more about your workflow?

After taking the photos, I start by using the 'Tune Image' tool to set the mood, aiming for deep tones that reflect my personal aesthetic. Then, using selective tools, I brighten a key beam of light and darken other elements — this is the step where the photo gains its soul. Finally, I use double exposure to create layered narratives where time overlaps and reality intertwines with illusion.

‘Autumn’

What is the most important advice you would give to a beginner in creative photography, and how would you recommend they get started?

Find your own photographic direction. Loving what you do, being persistent and experimenting are far more valuable than following tutorials. My original intention has always been to discover my own path, stay true to my beliefs and develop my own style.

‘Hill’

Which photographers do you admire most, and how has their work influenced your approach to photography? 

I don’t have a single favourite photographer, but the outstanding photographers in the Atlantic Photography Association inspire me constantly. I learn from them as I follow my own path to developing a unique style.

‘City’

Do you have any specific plans for your photography in the future, or any particular goals you wish to achieve?

Photography enriches my life. It helps me express my emotions and reflect on past experiences, enabling me to appreciate everything I encounter. I don't have any specific goals, only to enjoy each day and the art of photography.

‘Moon’

Describe your favourite photograph taken by you and why it is special to you? 

‘Waiting’

It was a typical autumn evening in 2024. A gentle drizzle fell as I walked along the path, until I saw a dim streetlight at a junction and a woman standing under a tree with an umbrella. Her silhouette was outlined in the light, raindrops sparkled on the umbrella and reflections swayed softly on the ground. In that moment, my mind was filled with scenes from a film.
Who was she waiting for? Or was she reminiscing about a moment she would never experience again? The combination of her stillness and the misty rainy night created an indescribable sense of melancholy beauty, reminiscent of the unspoken farewells in old films. Without hesitation, I captured the scene on my phone. There was no deliberate composition or adjustment of settings — just an instinctive press of the shutter, for fear of disturbing such a fragile atmosphere.
Later, when I reviewed the image, I realised that it was this 'imperfect reality' that had touched me. The glare of the streetlight, the rain streaks and the shallow depth of field gave the photo a strong narrative quality. In post-processing, I enhanced the mood by overlaying subtle tree shadows and shifting the colours towards cooler blue tones.

Is there anything else you would like to add, and what are your thoughts on using 1X as a base for your work?

1X is a special and sacred place for my artistic development. Since joining in 2020, I have seen countless inspiring works by photographers who have motivated me to find my own path. I am honoured to have been invited to this interview — it is a great encouragement. I will continue to follow my own path and create the work I love.

‘Winter Fresh’