JC, photographer, Passes Away

Photographer JC (Johnny Cheng 鄭智聰), passed away December 29, 2007 to cancer, at age 32.

Majoring in photography at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University while being an assistant to a Philippine photographer, JC became a freelance photographer to numerous Hong Kong magazines after graduating. He would later open his own studio and become photographer to the stars, including Andy Lau, Aaron Kwok, Zhou Xun, Eason Chan, Miriam Yeung, Joey Yung, Denise Ho and many others.

Many of his industry friends were in shock when they found out he had cancer, saying it was all too sudden. When they heard of his health getting better, many of them wanted to visit him, among those were Eason Chan who visited him a number of times and Miriam Yeung who gave him encouragement.

His wish to have his own gallery exhibit was fulfilled this past month when his exhibit, Awakening, opened on December 18th and is currently still open until January 4, 2008. Although he could not attend the opening of his exhibit, due to needed rest, his industry friends were present in his honor including Miriam Yeung, Joey Yung, Denise Ho, Amanda S., Chapman To, Hilary Tsui, Isabella Leong, Hins Cheung, Kenny Kwan, 2R, Yumiko Cheng, Shawn Yue and others. 2R and Hins Cheung not only helped out with the exhibit, but also helped out with the funds by taking money out of their pockets to make this exhibit happen. A photography book of JC's work is on sale at the exhibit, hoping to use the funds to help JC and his family.

When hearing of his passing, Hins Cheung says that although he had already known this day was coming soon there is no way to prepare for the sadness.

Isabella Leong says, "It is very sad. Every photographer takes beautiful pictures, but JC was also able to bring out each person's individuality in his pictures, he was very smart. I will never forget the times we had when he shot pictures of me."

Miriam Yeung and Joey Yung shared similar sediments as they both felt it was best for him. Joey says, "From a different angle, to no longer having to battle the illness is a form of relief." While Miriam, who saw him in the hospital a couple of weeks ago, also feels it is a form of relief for him.

Rosanne of 2R found out of his passing while at his exhibit and had to leave.

Jaycee Chan had bought a copy of JC's photography book and hoped that he would get it autographed by JC, but before he could ask, JC had already passed away.

Sources:
articles: sina 12.20.2007 & 12.30.2007
photos: ruby8687 at easyjoint forum

Note: the above photo of Eason is a piece in JC's exhibit, taken by ruby8687 who went to the exhibit last week.

A couple of weeks ago, Eason attened the Hong Kong Blood Cancer Foundation event with Connie Chan where he mentioned a friend who had cancer. JC was the friend he mentioned.

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The following photos appears to be from the dressing room when Eason performed at the 8th Anniversary of Macau's Special Administrative Region on December 20, 2007.



Source: discuss