Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Cheng Gong. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Cheng thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?
There are two phrases that have stayed with me over the years. One, spoken by my mom, goes like this: “Be a good person first, then do good business.” As a photographer for over 15 years, her words have profoundly shaped my approach. While skill and aesthetic sense are crucial, I’ve come to understand that commercial photography is fundamentally a service industry. Thus, kindness and friendliness towards others are equally important. For instance, I don’t just see my clients as paying customers; I treat them as friends. One of my long-term clients, a restaurant owner in New York, who’s nearly the same age as my mom, often tells her friends that she sees me as her little brother. This sentiment stems from more than just taking pictures for her—it’s about being considerate and caring. Knowing how exhausting her workdays can be, I make it a point to drive her home after our photo sessions. While this may seem like a small gesture, it means a lot to her. In return, she invites me and my family for dinner every Christmas or Chinese New Year’s Eve. This personal touch extends to all my clients, as I make it a point to remember special occasions and anticipate their needs, striving not only to excel as a photographer but also to embody the role of a trusted friend.
The second phrase originates from a high-ranking executive at one of my mother’s clients—a sage piece of advice that has stayed with me: “Repetition can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.” While some may perceive certain tasks, such as capturing white background product photos, as mundane, I’ve learned to view them through a different lens. By meticulously attending to every detail—finding the optimal angles, adjusting camera height, and maintaining consistency in framing—I’ve discovered that even the simplest tasks can yield remarkable results. Embracing this philosophy, I approach each assignment with curiosity and enthusiasm, constantly seeking out novel perspectives and refining my techniques. Through this mindset, I’ve not only found satisfaction in the process but also unlocked efficiencies that enhance the quality of my work. I firmly believe that by mastering the fundamentals and infusing them with dedication and creativity, we lay the groundwork for tackling even the most formidable challenges.
In essence, these two principles—prioritizing kindness and embracing diligence—transcend the realm of photography, serving as guiding principles applicable to all facets of life.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m a full-time photographer based in New York City, and my journey in photography spans over 15 years. My passion for photography ignited during my college years at Donghua University in Shanghai, where I majored in Environmental Art of Design. Despite having only two photography classes, I found myself deeply immersed in the art form. I spent most of my time on taking photos at that time, I have my camera in my bag all the time whenever I go out.
My professional journey took shape when I became the assistant of commercial photographer Michael Zhao in Shanghai. Working with him for three years, we often go to the celebrities’ home to take portrait and the space photos for magazines. That is how I honed my technical skills in still-life and celebrity portraits. However, my initial pursuit of photography faced skepticism from my mom, who deemed it an unstable career at that time.
To meet my mom’s wishes, I pursued a major in Project Management at Northeastern University in Boston. Undeterred, I transformed my living room into a makeshift photo studio and started taking photos for friends and classmates, earning a modest income. My passion persisted, and after conversations with my mom, I convinced her of my dedication to photography. She supported my decision, helping me secure admission to the School of Visual Arts for an MFA degree in Photography, video, and related media.
During my studies at SVA, I merged my commercial background with fine art influences. Under the guidance of my mentor, Shimon Attie, I explored Western oil painting techniques, leading to the creation of my series, “The Banquet” and “The Ten Precepts of Buddhism.” One of my proudest accomplishments is the “Ten Precepts of Buddhism,” a project that consumed a year of dedicated effort. Through this series, I aim to unveil the true essence of Chinese culture to Western audiences, offering insights into Eastern cultures. I had the privilege of showcasing this work in a solo exhibition at an art organization’s gallery. During an Artist Talk session, I engaged with audiences of all ages who not only showed interest in my work but also exhibited a genuine curiosity about Chinese culture. While there are hidden stories in my pieces that might be challenging for Western viewers to discern initially, providing explanations enhances their understanding.
Post-graduation, I established Seven Plus Studio, a photography studio in NYC specializing in product, portrait, and event photography. Seven-Plus is the name I thought since I was in college, seven is my lucky number, and seven plus is the same pronunciation as ” begin the business” in Chinese, I want to keep my original intention all the time no matter how far I go in my career. While the photography industry is dynamic and sometimes unpredictable, the opportunities in NYC have fueled my determination. Balancing commercial work with personal projects, I continue to explore my passion for Chinese food photography, blending raw ingredients with oil painting-style backgrounds.
As a commercial photographer, I find fulfillment in both making a living and pursuing my artistic endeavors. My journey is an ongoing balance between the commercial and the creative, a harmony of livelihood and artistry.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
There are several key points I’d like to address regarding this question. Firstly, I firmly believe that focusing on one or two specific domains is crucial for establishing a strong reputation in the field of photography. While fundamental skills may be universal, each domain requires its own set of specialized expertise. Personally, I have chosen to specialize primarily in still-life photography, while also undertaking portrait work on occasion. By dedicating myself entirely to still-life photography, I have been able to hone my skills and become an expert in this area. The process of continual learning is endless, and with each project, I find myself gaining valuable insights and improving my craft.
Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with numerous restaurants, providing them with high-quality menu and social media photos. Through my dedication and attention to detail, I have earned the trust and satisfaction of restaurant owners, many of whom have referred me to others in their network. While I may not be as active on social media or update my website as frequently as some other photographers, I have found that consistently delivering exceptional work speaks volumes. Despite the simplicity of certain projects, I approach each one with the utmost seriousness and professionalism. I firmly believe that one’s attitude towards their work is paramount, and it is this combination of a positive mindset and refined skillset that has earned me a respected reputation within my industry.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
As a professional commercial photographer, I find immense gratification in the tangible benefits my work brings to my clients. It’s truly fulfilling to witness the positive impact my photographs have on their businesses—whether it’s attracting more customers to their restaurants or bolstering their social media presence. Moreover, the enduring trust and loyalty displayed by clients who continue to utilize my work over the years, even going so far as to entrust me with their profile photos, hold profound significance to me.
In addition to my commercial endeavors, my personal artwork delves into the Chinese food series, which serves as a vehicle for exploring the rich cultural tapestry woven between Eastern and Western traditions. Through this creative lens, I find not only personal fulfillment but also the opportunity to inspire, uplift, and foster a deeper understanding of cultural nuances. The ability to express myself artistically while simultaneously bridging cultural divides is undeniably rewarding. Ultimately, as an artist, I cherish the chance to make a meaningful impact on the world through the transformative power of art. It serves as a conduit for self-expression, fostering resonance among Eastern audiences and cultivating greater cultural awareness among Western audiences.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.chenggongphoto.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photocheng
- Other: commercial work: https://www.7plus.studio/