We were lucky to catch up with Xiaopeng Zhan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Xiaopeng, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on was the collaboration between Sprite and Haidilao. I was brought on for the post-production phase, and the whole experience gave me a fresh perspective on the power of visuals in connecting culture, food, and lifestyle. It felt particularly special because it combined two brands with a lot of cultural significance. Sprite has this playful, energetic feel, while Haidilao is all about community and shared experiences around food—especially in Chinese culture, where dining together is a big deal.

The project’s concept was to create visuals that captured the spirit of both brands in a way that would resonate across cultures. Since I have a background in both photography and 3D design, I saw it as an opportunity to go beyond standard brand imagery and create something that truly felt immersive. I wanted the visuals to be vibrant and dynamic, something that would draw viewers in and make them feel like they could almost taste the food or feel the fizz of the Sprite. I spent hours experimenting with 3D models and AI-rendered elements, blending these with traditional photo edits to add depth and a hint of surrealism.

What made it meaningful was the creative freedom I had, combined with the sense of cultural pride in showcasing something that felt like home to me. As a Chinese photographer in New York, it’s not every day that I get to work on projects that resonate with my own cultural background, and this one felt like it was more than just another job. It was a chance to bridge cultures through visual storytelling, showing people here a taste of the lively, shared experience of a hotpot meal with a refreshing twist.

Xiaopeng, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m Xiaopeng Zhan, a photographer currently based in New York. I was born and raised in China and later moved to the U.S. to pursue my passion for visual arts at the School of Visual Arts, where I earned my BFA in Photography and Video. My journey into photography began with a deep fascination for storytelling through images. From a young age, I was captivated by how visuals could evoke emotions and convey narratives, which motivated me to explore different artistic expressions.

My creative style blends traditional photography with modern technology, particularly in 3D modeling and AI image processing. I strive to create visual works that convey layered stories, especially those that bridge cultural gaps. My portfolio includes brand advertising, fashion photography, and documentation of cultural events, all aimed at helping clients communicate their brand’s message and emotional essence. I firmly believe that compelling visual content can resonate deeply with audiences and foster connections.

In serving my clients, I address the challenges they face in brand representation, market communication, and audience engagement. Many brands want to stand out in a competitive landscape but often struggle to express their uniqueness visually. I assist them by crafting visual strategies that vividly bring their stories to life. My goal is to produce impactful works that are not only visually striking but also convey the core values of the brand.

What I’m most proud of is the creativity and adaptability I bring to each project. Every assignment is a new opportunity for me to combine technical skills with artistic vision, creating unique visual experiences. I want potential clients, followers, and fans to know that my work is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about telling authentic stories and conveying emotions. Through my photography, I aim to showcase the richness and diversity of culture while inspiring others to appreciate the beauty in the world around them.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

Absolutely! Reflecting on my creative journey, there are several resources I wish I had discovered earlier that could have significantly accelerated my growth and development as a photographer:

Business Resources: I didn’t fully grasp the importance of understanding the business side of being a freelancer until later. Resources like “The Business of Being a Photographer” or various business podcasts could have helped me navigate contracts, pricing strategies, and client management from the beginning.

Social Media Strategy Guides: I learned the hard way about the importance of social media in promoting my work. Early access to guides or workshops on building a personal brand on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn would have helped me reach a broader audience and showcase my photography effectively.

Mentorship Programs: Finding a mentor or entering a structured mentorship program can be a game-changer. I later realized the value of having someone with experience to guide me, provide feedback, and share insights into the industry.

These resources, if accessed earlier in my journey, could have enriched my experience and helped me grow both as an artist and a professional more quickly.

Do you think there is something that non-creatives might struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can shed some light?

The Nature of Rejection: In the creative field, rejection is a frequent and often disheartening reality. Non-creatives might find it hard to grasp just how much emotional investment goes into each project. Whether it’s a proposal that gets turned down, a photo that doesn’t resonate, or a client who opts for another vision, these moments can feel personal. Learning to cope with rejection, viewing it as part of the growth process, and maintaining motivation is a vital yet challenging aspect of being a creative.

The Subjectivity of Art: Creativity is inherently subjective. What resonates with one person might not resonate with another. This can be frustrating, as creatives often pour their hearts into their work only to face criticism or indifference. Non-creatives might find it hard to understand why a single negative comment can overshadow many positive ones. It’s important for creatives to remember that taste varies widely, and staying true to their vision is crucial.

The Process vs. the Product: For creatives, the journey of creating something often involves experimentation, failure, and a lot of trial and error. Non-creatives might focus more on the final product, but the process can be messy, iterative, and emotionally taxing. Understanding that many great works come from a series of missteps and learning experiences can help provide a deeper appreciation for the creative output.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://xiaopengzhan.com
• Instagram: sa1go
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xiaopeng-zhan-5b81a31aa/