Hong Kong-based, Filipina documentary photographer Xyza Cruz Bacani takes us behind the lens of her camera, and lets us in on her thought process when capturing compelling photographs.
On her first Tatler cover shoot assignment back in October 2019, I had the pleasure of working with Xyza and had gotten to know the renowned photographer intimately. I use the word intimately loosely, as our three-day journey into a small secluded town in General Santos had us working in extremely close proximity from the minute we landed in Davao City, until an army tank escorted us out of the mountains at the end of our trip. Earthquakes, fire alarms in the middle of the night and all other misadventures ensued. The multi-awarded photographer proved to be a steady force within our small team. Xyza is no stranger to nerve-racking work environments, after all, she braves protest-filled streets at the break of dawn and roams cities’ dark alleys well into the night. She’s most sought-after for her engaging visual stories that exposes deep societal issues and their burgeoning unrest.
As I watched her at work firsthand; her sharp focus is evident. She portrays keen mindfulness and depth as she stares out into the surroundings, taking every detail into account. Perhaps due to her colorful life experiences, Xyza's photographs are unmistakably thought-provoking and poignant, reflecting a level of gentle sincerity. She has skillfully mastered capturing her subjects in that split-second-moment, when they are at their most vulnerable. An exceptional field photographer, Xyza’s forte is making use of available light, weather conditions, and the natural environment. Like a true creative led by instinct, spontaneity proved to be most important in our collaboration.
This Gen T Honouree has been awarded as one of the Outstanding Women of the Nation’s Service in the field of Humanities, Asia’s 21 Young Leaders in 2018, Pulitzer Center and Society Moving Walls grantee, Forbes’ 30 under 30 Women Photographers Asia in 2016 and one of BBC’s 100 Women of the World in 2015. Add to that long list of achievements, she is also an author of her book titled We Are Like Air, Xyza Cruz Bacani shares a thing or two about photography in a short interview below:
What is your camera of choice?
I choose the Fujifilm cameras, especially the medium formats. I love the colour of the files, and it is easy to use.
How do you feel about the rise of high powered smartphone cameras vs. DSLR and point and shoot?
I’m ok with high powered smartphone cameras, it democratises photography and allows everyone to record their own stories. It is not comparable with DSLR cameras when it comes to professional quality and prints.
When did you realize you have an eye for photography?
I honestly haven't thought about it. All I know is I love the process of taking lyrical photographs, and that's what I do. The outside validations are nice though and very much welcomed.
What is your favourite thing to photograph?
I love photographing anything that sparks my curiosity. Issues that make me want to ask questions and find the right answers. I love telling stories of people who have voices but are unheard. I'm always curious about love, tenderness and the beauty of humanity. My work also focuses on representation, trauma, and identity.
