We recently connected with Alex Lv and have shared our conversation below.

Alex, appreciate you joining us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?

Believe it or not, before diving fully into photography and the creative field, I studied Mathematics and Chemistry for my Bachelor’s, and later did a Master’s in Forensic Science. I thought I was destined to sit in a lab or an office—or maybe open my own pharmacy—living a stable, regular life like my parents had hoped. But looking back, I’m glad I picked up a camera and started experimenting with light and color in my spare time about ten years ago. That simple curiosity quietly shifted the course of my life.

As many people say, being a photographer isn’t just about taking pictures. There are a lot of ups and downs along the way—questioning the purpose of test shoots, doing rewarding but unpaid work, building a portfolio, responding to last-minute jobs, and navigating all kinds of networking situations. Over time, I’ve developed a range of skills that allow me to oversee the entire creative process and ensure the final visual outcome aligns with the vision.

Do I ever wonder what life would be like with a “regular” job? Sure—especially on the tougher days. Sometimes I wish I had known what I was getting into before jumping into freelancing. But honestly, the unpredictability of fashion photography is part of what makes the journey so exciting. It keeps me curious, and that curiosity is what keeps me going.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

With a multicultural background, Alex Lv (Haowei Alex Lü) is drawn to the intersection of East and West. His work often explores dualities—energy vs. stillness, rebellion vs. elegance—resulting in a visual language that feels both thoughtful and dynamic. Whether working on commissioned shoots or personal projects, Alex’s photographs aim to tell a story—often with subtle humor and clear intention. He has a particular talent for capturing quiet, unnoticed moments and reframing them through the lens of contemporary fashion.

Alex’s creative mission is to challenge conventional beauty standards and push the boundaries of fashion imagery. He is passionate about expanding the possibilities of visual storytelling and using photography as a tool to reimagine identity, culture, and emotional nuance in modern life.

Currently based in New York, Alex’s creative journey began in Sydney, Australia, after being born and raised in Shanghai. He spent 17 years in Sydney, where he first explored music and played in metal bands before discovering photography as a new outlet for self-expression. That creative curiosity still drives him today—he continues to experiment with different art forms like drawing and digital media, always seeking new ways to expand his visual language. Alex works across both commercial and editorial projects, and his work has been featured in publications such as Marie Claire China and Pap Magazine.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

I love seeing my best work out in the world—on screens, in print—but ultimately, every image I create carries my name. That alone motivates me to take ownership of what I make. It might sound self-focused, but I’ve realized that the most meaningful part of my creative journey is being proud of the work myself. I’m not creating for quick likes or short attention spans—I’m building a body of work that reflects my vision and values.

My goal has always been to create something that satisfies me first. When I believe in the work, it naturally resonates with the right people. That’s when all the effort feels worthwhile—when my creative worth isn’t entirely dependent on external approval.

That said, I’ve always considered myself a team player. Over the years, I’ve learned how to build trust within my creative teams and deliver beyond expectations. But I also understand that when a strong team comes together, they look to the photographer to lead—to make clear, confident decisions, especially under pressure. That’s where I feel most in my element: keeping things moving, staying calm, and ensuring everyone is working toward the same vision.

At the end of the day, I’m taking risks for myself, going the extra mile for myself—and when I do that well, I’m able to lead with clarity and create something I’m genuinely proud of. If I can make myself happy with the outcome, everything else tends to align.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I’ve never been someone who enjoys reading books, but one picture book really stuck with me: The Lives of 50 Fashion Legends. I came across it about six years into my photography journey, and it had a surprising impact. It profiles 50 iconic fashion designers—not just their highlights, but also their setbacks: first jobs, early failures, bankruptcies, divorces, and how some didn’t even start a label under their own name until much later in life.

In an industry full of overnight success stories, that book helped me unlearn the pressure to “make it” quickly. For a long time, I thought I had to constantly produce, stay visible, and prove myself. But fashion may move fast—photography, for me, is something deeper. It’s a long, evolving journey.

I’ve learned to slow down, to enjoy the process, and to appreciate the creative power that photography gives me. I try to stay connected to what drew me in at the beginning: the joy of visual storytelling and the freedom to explore.

So yes, it’s absolutely okay to become known later in life. What matters most is that I never stop creating for myself. That’s one value I’ll always hold onto—staying curious, honest, and creatively fulfilled, no matter what stage I’m at.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://alexlv.photography
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexlv.hw/

Image Credits

Photos by Alex Lv @alexlv.hw
Artist’s photo by Yixiao Zhao @yixiaozyx