Taiwan photographers garnered top rankings in the latest Photographic Society of America’s Who’s Who in Photography listing released earlier this month.
Noted Taiwan photographer and instructor with Yuanlin Community College’s photography club, Chian Tsun-hsiung bagged No. 1 in the electronic imaging and photo travel divisions, while his protege Yeh Chin-liang also finished on top in the nature categories. Nine other Taiwan photographers made the top 10 in the listing’s eight divisions.
Chian, 74, who has been named one the world’s top 10 photographers for 23 consecutive years, told Taiwan Today in a telephone interview May 13 that he is honored to be recognized by the renowned PSA and is proud to see Yeh outperform him in the nature photo category.
“This year’s results are unprecedented and the best in over five decades,” Chian said. “They showcase Taiwan’s photography strength and boost our profile in the international stage.”
According to Chian, each photographer has to enter at least 10 of over 200 PSA recognized photo competitions each year to be included in the Who's Who list. A review panel calculates their points and announces the results every May.
The Yuanlin International Exhibition of Photography established in 2005 is one of the PSA-accredited competitions, Chian said, adding that the event attracts thousands of entries from 40 to 50 countries each year.
“The exhibition represents part of my efforts to promote Taiwan’s photography and nurture those who like the activity,” Chian said. “Since photography master Lang Ching-shan passed away, Taiwan’s photographers were little known in the world but now we have made headway in the field.”
Established in 1934, the PSA is one of the largest nonprofit organizations of its kind promoting art and science of photography. It boasts a membership of more than 7,000 from over 70 countries. (RC-JSM)
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