THE OUTDOOR AMPUTEE
Alec Waters
The subtropical weather in Hong Kong is typically humid and rainy, especially during summer. Storms bring dramatic thunder above the city skyline, a captivating theme for many photographers. I was fortunate a few years ago when a stormy night featured constant flashes of lightning. One bolt struck close to my apartment, creating an unforgettable scene. The illumination the skyscrapers behind and river below reflect how big and bright the lightning bolt was, and how much power is contained within it. Another image captured lightning above the skyscrapers at Victoria Harbour, highlighting the stormy contrast against the city's prosperity. Hong Kong is also ideal for street photography due to its bustling atmosphere. Night rain adds an extra layer to this vibrancy. One image from Mongkok, one of the city's busiest areas, shows mini-buses lined up on the street, waiting for departure.
A neon sign juxtaposes them, creating a striking visual split. Meanwhile, the market is covered with colorful, wet awnings that reflect light, catching the viewer's eye. In a quiet corner, a couple walks toward a restaurant under an umbrella, with the lantern’s glow reflected in a puddle. Taxis move busily through the rain, and the signage of a famous restaurant glows even brighter, suggesting that heavy rain doesn't disrupt daily life. Hong Kong is a city with subjects of all scales, from skyscrapers to signage. Many of these shine through the rain, the character of the city persisting undeterred. Yet still, there are thrilling moments where the city’s glow is briefly outshone by flashes of lightning.
This article first appeared in PRISMA, Issue 21.