Shi Kecheng, a renowned Chinese art portrait photographer, has been making international waves with his unique approach to his craft, earning him features in esteemed Western photography magazines including “VIGOUR” and “IMIRAGE”. Shi’s rising prominence within the global photography community has further been affirmed by his works, “The Last Summoner” and “Dance·Radiance”, gracing the cover of “MEN CRUZE” magazine.
Born in Shanghai in 1982 and currently residing in Los Angeles, Shi has made remarkable strides in his career, winning the Silver Award for Portrait Photography from the WPPI International Wedding Portrait Photographers Association in 2022. His photographic creations, deeply appreciated both domestically and internationally, frequently grace exhibitions and collections. Shi’s expertise in long exposure techniques, coupled with the infusion of profound thoughts and authentic emotional expressions in his works, are among the reasons for his growing acclaim.
A testament to Shi’s innovative artistry, his pieces skillfully merge modern photography techniques with a traditional oil painting aesthetic. Before the dawn of photography, oil paintings served as the primary means of capturing and preserving images, each one narrating its unique tale. Shi has breathed new life into this art form by incorporating the rich textures and emotive nuances of oil paintings into his photography. He is known for hand-picking themes, designing outfits, and creating a spectrum of light and shadow that enlivens the story in each shot.
His distinctive technique involves printing his photographs and then meticulously applying oil painting strokes to them. This method, while highlighting the texture of the piece, also ensures the subject’s face retains its sharp definition. The stunning work “The Last Summoner” exemplifies this creative approach.
Shi’s other work, “Dance·Radiance”, uses the art of power and body control to portray the elegance of a dancer, and was recently featured on the cover of “MEN CRUZE” magazine. The use of hard light delineates the dancer’s robust body lines and strength, while the ambient hues of purple and blue imbue a sense of mystery and softness.
In conclusion, Shi Kecheng’s mastery in the intricate blend of photography and traditional oil painting continues to redefine artistic boundaries, capturing the world’s attention and pushing the frontier of modern portraiture. His inimitable works stand as an embodiment of his vision and talent, seamlessly portraying profound emotions and narratives through the lens of his camera. It is evident that Shi Kecheng’s journey is one that is etched with innovation and unwavering dedication, making him a true luminary in the world of art portrait photography.
