In conversation with Edwin Datoc, Photographer & Filmmaker, Hong Kong.

Edwin Datoc has photographed in over 80 countries, shot for Harper's Bazaar, Elle and Tatler, and built a body of work that moves between fine art and assignment with equal conviction. His defining medium is black and white, not as a style, but as a way of seeing. Born in the Philippines, raised in Australia, now living in Hong Kong, he came to photography late, abandoning a career in accounting for a camera and a calling he has never looked back from. In 7 rapid fire questions, he reflects on light, freedom, the discipline of less, and a moment in Havana when he put the camera down entirely.

1. As you have been to over 80 countries, where do you feel most present?

My most creative years were in New York, Paris and Budapest. I feel most present when I'm just doing my style of pictures. I can pause and reflect whenever I want. For me, to be present is creative freedom.

2. You're drawn to the edges of the day: the early morning light before the world wakes, the last rays before it goes quiet again. What does that light reveal that the rest of the day hides?

The light of dawn, first light, represents new beginnings, a reset, and also fresh air.

3. What does simplicity mean to you? In photography and in how you live?

I'm a gear minimalist. The longer I've been a photographer, the less gear I own. And it's true that the more you're thinking about cameras, the more you're not taking a photo. Whilst in my personal life — maintaining peace of mind, don't sweat the small stuff. We always have a choice. Choose happiness over misery.

4. You shoot primarily in black and white — not just as a style, but as a way of seeing. What does removing colour actually give back?

There's a deeper thought process with lighting when shooting in black and white, and I find that my colour pictures have gotten better as I've developed my expertise with black and white. Removing colour gives back more emotion and timelessness.

5. What is your personal definition of timelessness?

Timelessness in photographs separates the good from the great. It's easy to take a good photo but a great photo remains timeless.

6. You move between cities, cultures, decades of work. What do you still try to capture?

The fascinating thing about photography is that it continues to be a learning experience. Just when you think you know it all, you learn something new and not just about photography, but also about yourself.

7. Describe a moment when you pressed the shutter and time stood still.

When I was in Havana, shooting the last frame on a film camera in the rain. I didn't reload — and decided to just watch what was going on through my eyes and not through a lens.

Photography: Ray of Hours Campaign Shoot Permanence Collection FW26/27 at Madame Fu, Hong Kong.