Mina Ao is an emerging photographer who was born and grew up in Macau. Her attitude and curiosity have motivated her to try life in different parts of the world. She has lived in Canada, The United States, Israel and Macau. She has spent the past three years of her career working and training with masters in the field of photography in New York City. Their knowledge, passion, discipline, and professionalism has influenced her profoundly in her own pursuits as an artist and photographer.

On the American Landscape

When her eyes first met the vastness of the American wilderness, it was the beginning of a long relationship — she was awe struck, and immediately fell in love. The spiritual quality in the landscape was an inspiration. She strives to see beyond the landscape, bringing to light the hidden life forms in nature. She wants to create images of nature that inspires people, just as how she was inspired.

On Orchids

On a trip to the New York Botanical Garden to see the annual orchid exhibition, she met her muse, and they started an adventure down a creative path together. Mina has traveled the United States to photograph orchids; every shoot is a new discovery. Her orchid photography displays orchids in a way that they have never been seen before, showing their colors at full vibrancy, revealing the sensuality they have hidden in their hues, attempting to decipher the message embodied in their peculiar shapes.

On Travel and Documentary

As a citizen of this world, Mina has a deep interest in local and foreign cultures. She photographs the lives of the cultures she encountered. These encounters make an impression in her life, as well her subjects’ — her photography allows them to see their own cultures in a new perspective. Her most recent work includes a series on New York Jewish Community and Wild West Rodeo.

Mina currently lives and creates in New York City, and travels in North America, Asia and the Middle East.