A Journey Through the Lens: An Interview with Zhang Linghuan

For Zhang Linghuan, photography is far more than a profession—it’s a mentor, a best friend, and a path to self-discovery. Born and raised in Liaoning, China, Linghuan’s journey has taken her across continents, from capturing underground metal concerts in Beijing to black-and-white street photography in Amsterdam, and now to her creative base in Cologne, Germany. Her work blends minimalism with profound emotional depth, exploring themes of solitude, gender fluidity, and vulnerability.

In this exclusive interview, Linghuan shares how she overcame her fears and turned her lifelong passion into a fulfilling career. She reflects on the lessons photography has taught her, the challenges she has faced, and the joys of meeting people through her craft. Whether you’re an aspiring creative or simply curious about life behind the lens, Linghuan’s story offers inspiration and insight into the world of a dedicated artist.

M: Hi Ling, how are you? Can you introduce yourself to our readers?

L: Hey! I’m doing great—sitting in the sun and eating watermelon right now. Life couldn’t be better! My name is Zhang Linghuan. I was born and raised in Liaoning, China, and since 2014, I’ve been living in Europe. Currently, I’m based in Cologne, Germany. I’m a Virgo sun with Scorpio rising and an INFP personality.

M: What does photography mean to you?

L: Photography is my mentor and my best friend. It helps me conquer my fears and pushes me forward. As an introvert, my desire to capture the perfect shot encourages me to interact with people. The discomfort of being in a crowd disappears once I have my camera in hand.

It also teaches me decision-making. Every shot requires quick and thoughtful choices—what to shoot, whom to shoot, how to shoot, and how to balance lighting, colors, and emotions. It’s all about making thorough, responsible decisions.

Even when I’m not holding a camera, photography has trained me to observe patiently and deeply. It’s a key part of my self-discovery journey, helping me answer questions like: Who am I? What do I like? How do I connect with my heart? Each time I press the shutter, I get closer to understanding myself.

One of the biggest rewards is the people I meet along the way—subjects, team members, collaborators. These beautiful connections are something I deeply cherish.

M: How would you describe your photography style?

L: Do you follow a specific direction?
I like my photography to be sharp and minimalistic, removing unnecessary elements to highlight the essence of the subject. A lot of my work involves minimalistic scenes—perhaps in front of a white backdrop with simple styling. Making “nothing” look interesting is a way to reveal the subject's true essence.

My work often explores themes of gender fluidity, solitude, and vulnerability. That said, I wouldn’t say I’ve settled on a single visual style. I get bored easily and enjoy experimenting with different approaches. I prefer embracing change and trying new things.

M: When did you decide to become a photographer?

L: I’ve loved photography since I was four years old, when I shakily held my dad’s point-and-shoot camera. Over the years, I enjoyed shooting underground metal concerts in Beijing and capturing black-and-white street scenes in Amsterdam.

At that time, I didn’t think of turning my passion into a career because I had no formal art education—I attended business school instead. It seemed like an impossible dream.

When I moved to Germany, I had some free time while learning the language. I started photographing people around me, and what began as a hobby slowly turned into jobs. These opportunities helped me build my skills and confidence. Now, I feel very lucky and privileged to make a living from photography.

M: How do you approach photography jobs compared to personal projects?

L: When it comes to professional jobs, client and team satisfaction are my top priorities. A successful production requires good communication, so I always prepare thoroughly and communicate proactively to understand what my clients need. Based on that, I offer suggestions and expertise to ensure we achieve the best results.

For private projects, I have more freedom to experiment and explore, which allows me to create a relaxed and personal atmosphere.

M: What does a typical day look like for you?

L: I currently work part-time with an amazing content team. Our office is filled with laughter and support, which makes it a joy to go to work. I also freelance as a photographer.

I can be a bit of a workaholic. I’ll shoot, edit, and shoot again, often losing track of time when I’m in the flow. When I’m in that state, I hardly feel hungry or tired.

To stay balanced, I have some creative rituals: morning yoga, deep talks with friends, baths, music, and movies. These moments help me reconnect with myself. I also spend time studying the works of my favorite artists and reviewing my own images to grow and evolve.

M: What would you say sets your photography apart?

L: I don’t compare myself to others because I think everyone has their own unique vision. Diversity in photography is beautiful, and I’m constantly inspired by other people’s work.

M: Have you ever thought about quitting photography? If so, why, and how did you overcome it?

L: There was a time when I felt drained from working intensively on non-creative jobs. That stress took away my pleasure in photography, and I started questioning myself.

To overcome it, I reminded myself why I started in the first place—because I love taking pictures. Refocusing on this passion helped me regain my energy and desire to shoot.

M: If you could change the fashion world—or the world in general—how would you do it?

L: If I had influence, I’d advocate for focusing on well-being. Be kind to each other, respect diversity, and treat our planet with care. Fairness, honesty, and compassion can go a long way in making the world better.

M: What advice would you give to upcoming creatives who want to follow their passions?

L: Feel your heartbeat and find your flow state. Practice it regularly, try new things, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Collaborate with others, share feedback, and grow together.

M: Thank you for sharing your journey, Ling! Any final thoughts?

L: Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. Take care, and I hope to see you soon!

#photography #minimalism #art #fashion

Mona Thomas: Crafting a Unique Design Identity

In the dynamic landscape of modern design, Mona Thomas has emerged as a captivating figure whose work defies easy categorization. Drawing from a rich palette of childhood inspirations, her journey into the world of design is both a story of passion and an exploration of diverse cultural elements.

**A Creative Odyssey: From Cartoons to Couture**

Mona Thomas's earliest inspirations were shaped by a love for television cartoons, the vibrant energy of music videos, and the eclectic content discovered on platforms like Tumblr. These early encounters ignited a curiosity about the creators behind these works, leading Thomas to envision a future where she, too, could contribute to these creative realms. "Everything I loved as a child still feeds me with new ideas today," she reflects, highlighting a continuous evolution rooted in her formative experiences.

**A Style Beyond Definition**

Defining Thomas's style is an exercise in futility, and she prefers it that way. "I try not to define what I do. Either my work speaks to you, or it doesn’t," she asserts. This approach allows her creativity to flow unimpeded by labels, drawing from a myriad of influences that span graphic design, photography, and beyond. Her work is a living amalgamation of everything that has inspired her, from pop culture to personal experiences, making each piece a unique expression of her artistic journey.

**Embracing Versatility: Materials and Techniques**

While Thomas has a strong foundation in graphic design and photography, she does not limit herself to specific materials or techniques. Her creative arsenal includes everything from accessories to architectural concepts, though practical constraints often dictate the extent of her explorations. Early in her career, limited resources confined her to handcrafting products in her father's workshop. Despite these challenges, her drive to experiment with different mediums continues to expand her creative horizons.

**The Creative Process: A Journey of Discovery**

Thomas's creative process is as fluid as her style. Ideas often begin as sketches, lying dormant until the right moment for further development. This thoughtful incubation period ensures that her concepts are fully realized, even if it means waiting months before taking the next step. The addition of a design assistant, Ijad, has helped Thomas navigate the technical challenges of bringing her visions to life, allowing for more ambitious projects and refined execution.

**Finding Joy in Independence**

While collaborations offer excitement and new perspectives, Thomas finds the greatest satisfaction in her independent projects. The freedom to design, create visuals, and direct photoshoots on her own terms is invaluable. "The only person I have to please is myself," she says, underscoring the liberating nature of self-directed work.

**Navigating Sustainability with Honesty**

In a world increasingly concerned with sustainability, Thomas approaches the topic with refreshing candor. Acknowledging the inherent contradictions of working within the fashion industry, she focuses on creating meaningful, non-disposable products. "My most honest, sustainable principle is not to produce anything I can't sell," she states, emphasizing a commitment to thoughtful production over mere profitability.

**Overcoming Challenges: The Business of Creativity**

For Thomas, the transition from designer to entrepreneur has been fraught with challenges. Lacking a familial background in business or fashion, she has had to learn the ropes of entrepreneurship through experience. The journey has not been without its hurdles, but Thomas's perseverance and growing confidence have been key to her continued success.

**Advice to Aspiring Designers: Just Show Your Work**

Thomas's advice to budding designers is straightforward: "Just show your work." In the digital age, visibility is crucial, and sharing one's creations, even with a small audience, can lead to unexpected opportunities. Her own career is a testament to the power of putting oneself out there, regardless of initial reception.

**Looking Ahead: A Future Filled with Creativity**

As she looks to the future, Mona Thomas is focused on continuing her creative journey. Her goals are simple yet profound: to keep creating and exploring new ideas. For Thomas, the joy of the process and the pursuit of meaningful work are the ultimate rewards, promising an exciting future for this innovative designer.

In a world where creativity and authenticity are paramount, Mona Thomas stands out as a designer who not only crafts unique pieces but also embodies a philosophy of living through art. Her work is a testament to the power of embracing one's influences and staying true to one's vision, offering a compelling example of how personal passion can fuel professional success.

Words by Mohamed Gounain