We were lucky to catch up with Qingjian Ma recently and have shared our conversation below.

Qingjian, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?

I was born in China and moved to the U.S. at the age of 15. Looking back on my upbringing, I realize that “inclusivity” was not a widely embraced concept in Chinese society at the time, at least not in the environment I grew up in. However, I was fortunate to have been raised in a family that valued openness and acceptance. My parents gave me a perspective that transcended societal norms, allowing me to explore diverse ideas and experiences. This open-mindedness helped me integrate into American society, which embraces inclusivity on a broader scale.

One of the things my parents did right was respecting and supporting my choices. Even when they had their own opinions, they always gave me the space to discuss and negotiate, rather than imposing their views on me. In most cases, I was able to pursue what I wanted with their full support. Because of this, I had the privilege of trying and experiencing many different things growing up. Through their encouragement, I naturally learned to be open-minded and adaptable.

Originally, I was studying economics at a university in California. Toward the end of my freshman year, I realized it wasn’t the right path for me. I decided to transfer to the School of Visual Arts to study photography, a field that felt far more fulfilling and aligned with my passions. My parents didn’t fully understand my decision at first, but they knew it was what I wanted. Instead of resisting, they chose to support me—both emotionally and financially.

Because of the environment they created for me, I’ve been able to live with a sense of joy and freedom, like a child who is unafraid to explore. Their support and open-mindedness have shaped not only my career but also the way I approach life—with curiosity, acceptance, and a willingness to embrace change.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am a Brooklyn-based photographer with a deep passion for visual storytelling. I graduated from the School of Visual Arts in 2024 with a degree in Photography, and since then, I have developed my own unique approach to photography. I specialize in medium and large-format color film photography, but beyond the technical aspects, my focus is on conveying deeper narratives and emotions through my work.

For me, photography is more than just a visual art—it is a way to explore the world and reflect on myself. Sometimes, my work serves as an “objective” documentation of a moment, but more often, I use it as a tool to pose questions to society and my audience. I don’t seek to provide clear answers; instead, I want my work to inspire thought and allow viewers the freedom to “respond” to the questions my images present. In turn, their responses continue to inspire me.

When I create, I prioritize my own artistic vision first before considering the audience. I understand that no piece of work can be universally loved, and I fully embrace that reality. There will always be people who resonate with certain aesthetics or expressions, while others may critique them. I don’t shy away from “negative” feedback because even criticism is part of the conversation that my work generates—it’s something to be understood and learned from.

I see my work as an ongoing dialogue—one that constantly evolves, shaped not only by my own perspective but also by the interpretations and thoughts of those who engage with it. Whether in commercial collaborations or personal projects, I remain committed to using photography as a tool for inquiry, inviting viewers to think, interpret, and find their own meaning within my images.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, as a creator, the most valuable aspect of being an artist is the ability to evoke resonance, thought, or joy in the audience. If my work can inspire someone, that is truly exhilarating. Even if it sparks reflection in just one person, it is already worth it.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Some of my works start with a specific thesis in mind, but often, as I delve deeper into the creative process, that initial thesis may shift—or even be completely overturned. At the same time, there are moments when, after many twists and turns, I find myself returning to my original idea.

I believe that having an initial concept or thesis is important, but for me, the creative journey itself is often more meaningful—or even more important—than the starting idea.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://maqingjian.com
• Instagram: qingjian_m

Image Credits

Cr. Qingjian Ma