Tangyu Zhang sees what many others overlook. Through her camera, she captures stories of identity and resilience, giving a voice to those who are often unheard. Based in Washington, D.C., she focuses on Asian women, LGBTQ individuals, and other marginalized groups. Her photography invites us to challenge stereotypes, to feel empathy, and to understand the world—and each other—more deeply.
Tangyu’s journey into photography began with a simple realization: many stories were missing from mainstream narratives. Growing up, she noticed that the lives and experiences of Asian women and LGBTQ individuals were rarely represented. This gap in representation sparked her desire to document these stories herself. What started as a personal project soon grew into a professional path dedicated to shining a light on overlooked voices.
Her time working as a Still photographer helped shape her approach to photography. At the work, Tangyu learned how to take complex, motion-driven ideas and turn them into images that felt human and relatable. Whether she was photographing projects in distant regions or capturing the personal impact, she always focused on the people at the heart of these stories. This experience sharpened her technical skills and deepened her understanding of photography as a tool for connection and empathy.
Beyond her institutional work, Tangyu’s creative projects allow her to explore deeply personal themes. She has created series that examine the lives of Asian women navigating stereotypes and reclaiming their identities in Western societies. Another ongoing project highlights LGBTQ individuals living in conservative cultures, capturing their courage and struggles with sensitivity and care. Her photographs often capture quiet, unguarded moments—expressions of vulnerability and strength that words alone can’t convey.
Tangyu’s artistic vision is shaped by her own experience of feeling both a sense of belonging and a sense of being an outsider. This perspective helps her connect with her subjects on a deeper level, approaching them with honesty and empathy. Whether it’s the subtle emotion in a portrait or the intensity of a protest scene, her images are layered with meaning. Her dedication to her craft has earned her recognition as an award-winning photographer, including honors from the Light Space & Time Online Art Gallery’s competition and the Portrait Award from Shoot the Frame. Her work has also appeared in publications like Vogue and has been shown in award-winning exhibitions, striking a chord with diverse audiences.
For Tangyu, success isn’t measured by awards or magazine features. What matters most to her is the impact her work has—the conversations it starts and the connections it builds. When her images help someone feel seen or help others understand a different perspective, she knows she’s made a difference.
Looking ahead, Tangyu plans to expand her storytelling by blending photography with video, sound, and other media. She wants to create immersive experiences that draw audiences in and make the stories she tells even more powerful. No matter how her work evolves, she remains committed to staying true to the communities she photographs, ensuring their voices are represented with honesty and respect.