Hao Yu Chiu: Capturing the Essence of “Wooden Sunshine’s Home” through Photography

Hao Yu Chiu, the talented photographer behind Huilang Photography, has been specializing in architectural and spatial photography since 2008. His work on Wooden Sunshine’s Home, a project based in Hsinchu City, Taiwan, for Stonehenge Construction, won him the Architecture Photography MasterPrize Award in the Residential Interior category. In this interview, Hao Yu Chiu shares insights into his creative process, the challenges of capturing architecture, and his passion for visual storytelling.

Could you give us a little background on yourself and your company?

Hao Yu Chiu: I started my photography career in 2008, focusing on architectural and spatial photography. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills to capture the essence of a space, bringing out the textures, materials, and emotions that a building conveys. Through Huilang Photography, I’ve been fortunate to work on a variety of projects, from residential interiors to large-scale architectural works, always seeking to visually express the story behind the design.

What was the inspiration behind the Wooden Sunshine’s Home project?

Hao Yu Chiu: The project beautifully combines natural elements—particularly wood—with the warmth of winter sunlight. The free-flowing curves of the wood and the cozy, inviting atmosphere of the space made it incredibly appealing. My goal was to capture that warmth and the simplicity of the materials in a way that would resonate with viewers, making them feel the serenity and natural beauty of the home.

What were the main challenges in photographing this project?

Hao Yu Chiu: One of the biggest challenges was working with the interplay between light, wood, and concrete. The materials in the space are stunning, but direct sunlight was essential to bring out their textures and depth. The weather and time of day are crucial when photographing architecture, and in this case, I had to wait two weeks for the perfect sunny afternoon to achieve the image I envisioned. When the right moment arrived, everything—lighting, shadows, and space—came together seamlessly.

What aspect of the project are you most proud of?

Hao Yu Chiu: I’m particularly proud of how the winter sunlight angles into the space, creating a perfect harmony between the indoor environment and the courtyard outside. The shadows from the deciduous trees don’t interfere with the simplicity of the space, and everything felt “just right.” That moment, where all the elements aligned, is exactly what I aimed to capture.

What drew you to architectural photography, and what excites you most about this field?

Hao Yu Chiu: Architectural photography is the culmination of everyone’s efforts—the owners, designers, and builders. My role as a photographer is to express all their hard work through my lens. I find the process of mutual understanding and trust between the photographer and the client fascinating. It’s both a pleasure and a responsibility to visually translate their vision into something tangible, using my visual language to create that final expression.

If you could own any building or design object in the world, what would it be and why?

Hao Yu Chiu: I would love to own a residence that is naturally formed, where the terrain itself provides shelter from the wind and rain, surrounded by lakes and grasslands that nourish everything. That connection to nature feels like the ultimate expression of harmony between humans and the environment.

What future trends or technologies do you think will impact architectural photography?

Hao Yu Chiu: I see advancements in camera technology having a big impact. Imagine tiny, ultra-high resolution cameras that cost as little as a lunch—this kind of accessibility would open new possibilities for photographers and allow for even more creativity in capturing architecture.

How can architectural photography make a difference to society and the world?

Hao Yu Chiu: Architectural photography can help raise awareness about environmentally conscious design. By capturing and showcasing projects that prioritize sustainability, we can inspire others to take the same approach in their designs and constructions. I hope that through my photography, more people will appreciate the aesthetics of sustainable architecture and move towards a future that respects the balance of nature and human life.

How do you feel about winning the Architecture MasterPrize, and what does it mean for your career?

Hao Yu Chiu: Winning the Architecture MasterPrize is a wonderful affirmation of my work. It’s encouraging to know that my photographic eye is recognized on an international level. This award reinforces that architectural and spatial photography is the path I want to continue pursuing, and I’m excited for the future opportunities it may bring.

We thank Hao Yu Chiu for sharing his journey into architectural photography and his experience working on Wooden Sunshine’s Home. His dedication to capturing the beauty of architectural spaces is evident in his work, and his passion for visual storytelling continues to inspire the world of design and photography.