5 Chinese Proverbs To Transform Your Photography

A few years ago, while living in China and studying the language, I became fascinated by the rich culture, way of life, and the wisdom embedded in their proverbs.

Proverbs are concise sayings that offer advice and reflect life's truths. Many Chinese proverbs trace their origins back to ancient China, shaped by the insights of its philosophers, writers, and poets.

I’ve selected five that are not only relevant to everyday life but can also transform your photography. These are not technical tips; rather, mindsets that you can apply practically. They’ve significantly improved my approach to photography, and I believe they can do the same for you. So, let’s dive in.

1. A Journey Of A Thousand Miles Begins With One Step - 千里之行，始于足下 (Qiān lǐ zhī xíng, shǐ yú zú xià)

This proverb teaches us that even the longest and most difficult ventures start with a single step.

A goal you have in mind can seem daunting, especially when you compare where you want to go to where you are now. But whether that goal is large or small, you need to start somewhere, right? Well, taking that first step may be the hardest, but it’s also the most important.

For example, the world’s greatest photographers all began with an interest in photography and eventually bought a camera. The paths they took to become successful were different, but they all started by taking a small step toward their journey.

If you want to tell better stories with your pictures, excel in a specific niche, or book more clients, start by setting a small, achievable goal. It’s the perfect first step.

2. Water Can Wear Away The Hardest Rock - 水滴石穿 (Shuǐ dī shí chuān)

The full version of this proverb states, “Water can wear away the hardest rock, not because of its strength, but because of its persistence.”

This highlights the power of consistent effort and perseverance.

If you splash water at a rock with the intention of eroding it, nothing will happen. But if you drop water on it every day for years, you’ll eventually find that the water has worn a hole in it.

In photography, as in life, the more consistent you are, the better you get. Making photography a part of your lifestyle by taking your camera out more often is a guaranteed path to improvement. Over time, you’ll find that you can spot a good photo much quicker, come up with more creative ideas, and become a better observer of life.

So instead of taking your camera out a few times a month, try doing it a few times a week. The time and effort you put in are like water dripping away at the rock. So, “be water, my friend.” ;)

3. The Most Delicious Soups Are Made By Combining Different Ingredients - 和羹之美，在于合异 ( Hé gēng zhīměi, zàiyú hé yì)

This proverb highlights the importance of trying new things. Think of your soup as your creative craft and the ingredients as the different fields you have experience in.

In any creative field, it’s useful to specialise in a niche to master it. However, after mastering something, it’s easy to fall into a repetitive routine of doing the same things. So, while mastering your niche is important, trying new things within or outside your niche is a great way to push the boundaries of your creativity and find new inspiration.

I personally focus on travel photography, which gives me great freedom of visual expression. However, I noticed that I usually shoot in the daytime. So this month, I tried shooting more at night. It took some adjusting, but I enjoyed the experience and got some cool results (see below).

You don’t have to dive deep into new things, but a little experimentation goes a long way. The more you try new things within your craft, the more diverse and flavourful your soup will become.

4. When Three People Walk Together, There Must Be One Who Can Be My Teacher - 三人行，必有我师 (Sān rén xíng, bì yǒu wǒ shī)

This proverb reminds us that we can learn from everyone around us, as everyone has their own unique knowledge and experiences.

It speaks to me the most because I sometimes have a bad case of tunnel-vision-syndrome. When I’m focused on a goal, I often forget about everything else except the goal and my own journey toward it. In times like these, it’s important to remember that there are other great minds to learn from and interact with, as exchanging ideas is one of the greatest ways to spark creativity and innovation.

Earlier this year, before I committed to taking my photography seriously, I spoke with a film cinematographer I know who has deep experience in the industry. I wanted more clarity about the creative industry and what I could be doing, and he gave me great advice and the inspiration I needed—you just can’t put a price on those conversations.

So, if you’re on a path but want to go further, build a network of people who can support your growth. They don’t have to be particularly senior or successful; just keep an open mind, and you’ll be surprised by who you can learn from.

 
5. Water Flows In To Flow Out - 水满则溢 (Shuǐ mǎn zé yì)

Similar to “what comes up must come down,” this proverb points out that once things reach their climax, they will reverse. This highlights the importance of taking a break.

On the journey to improve your photography, starting, being consistent, and trying new things are all very important, but taking a break is equally important. Resting allows everything you’ve done and learned to sink in, and it refills your inspiration.

Going back to the second proverb about dripping water, hard work is like water slowly filling a cup. When your cup feels full, take a break, empty it, and you can refill it again when you’re ready.

So, when you reach the point of exhaustion after working hard, put your camera down, be present, and be observant, because water flows in to flow out.

I hope these expressions will help you to go out, take some photos, and enjoy yourself. Find what works for you and walk your path with confidence.

Thank you for reading :)

If you enjoyed this read, check out my video below that expands on these proverbs!