After completing a master’s degree and beginning her career in advertising, Stella Yan found herself drawn to another creative path when she started shooting rooftop photography following an outing with friends. As her interest and experiences evolved and expanded, she found her style of photography evolving as well, moving from rooftop to street photography, urban portraits, and travel. Inspired by Chinese and Japanese films and animations, she strives to imbue her images with a cinematic flavor, inviting viewers to feel drawn into the scenes and imagine themselves a part of the action.

Stella frequently uses a drone to shoot, loving the unique perspectives it allows. To edit, she creates her own presets in Lightroom and avoids using those made by others, explaining that just as the capture of the image allows her to express what she sees, the editing expresses what she feels. In addition to photography, Stella wields her creativity in her role with a Tokyo advertising agency, working with clients on planning and strategy.

Instagram: @st_ella