Leica recently released its latest limited edition Leica M-A “Titanium Special Edition,” which truly brings back memories of the classic Summicron-M 50mm focal length lens. However, among the new releases this year, the M11, which was first introduced at the beginning of the year, is definitely one of the most eye-catching works in the M series. To celebrate the birth of this classic series, the brand even invited local photography enthusiasts, famous Hong Kong singer and actor/director Ronald Cheng to collaborate, using the M11 to capture various scenes as he roamed around every corner of Hong Kong, witnessing the changes in life after experiencing social and environmental transformations. Leica also specifically held his first solo photography exhibition “Seeking Hong Kong Style” at the Leica Hong Kong Causeway Bay flagship store and the Central International Finance Center store.
For this collaboration, Ronald selected 14 photos for an exhibition and held a photography exhibition lecture at the Leica Hong Kong Causeway Bay flagship store, sharing his story with Leica cameras, thoughts on the theme of the exhibition, inspiration, and feelings during the shooting.
Ronald shared, “This time I chose to use street photography to record the various aspects of life, trying to show the most natural appearance, and to witness these scenes that may soon disappear.” He has always felt that Hong Kong is a city that is constantly changing, and in recent years, due to the impact of social environment and epidemics, some small shops, trades, or industries, such as Shanghai barber shops, small grocery stores, and shoe repair shops, are quietly disappearing. These people and events are all witnessing the growth of Hong Kong, or are a part of many people’s growth.
Having experienced unprecedented changes, Ronald revealed some interesting anecdotes from the shoot that impressed him the most. He said, “I enjoy talking to the subjects, understanding their stories while documenting them, making the photos more textured, allowing the audience to resonate and connect more easily.” Through this exhibition, he hopes to remind everyone that in this difficult time, there are still people quietly persevering. We must cherish and record these things full of Hong Kong’s human touch.
Friends who have paid attention to Ronald should know that he is a camera enthusiast and photography lover. Regarding his connection with Leica cameras, he revealed that three generations of his family have been users of Leica cameras. “The first time I came into contact with a Leica camera was a long time ago during a house move. I accidentally discovered my grandfather’s M3 camera. Due to the humid weather in Hong Kong and a lack of maintenance for a long time, the camera was no longer functioning at that time. But because it holds sentimental value for me, I spent nearly half a year repairing it and started the habit of using M series cameras.” Ronald said, “For everything, including photography, I have always pursued simplicity, which is why I particularly like the compact design of the ‘M camera.’ I have found that its greatest advantage is its high stability. In different environments, even in extreme conditions like snowy mountains, it can still operate normally. This is why I have always found the M system cameras easy to use.”
Ronald Cheng’s first solo photography exhibition “In Search of Hong Kong Style” will be held from now until September 9 at Leica’s flagship store in Causeway Bay and the International Finance Center store in Central. Friends who are interested may wish to visit the Leica store to see Ronald’s sincere records.
資料及圖片來源：Courtesy of LEICA
