READING TIME: 2 min 5 sec
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/07/2025
Leaving behind a secure career in finance to follow the unknown is never easy, but for Hugh’s Hue, that decision opened the door to an entirely new life. “I worked full time at a hedge fund as a quantitative analyst until 12 years ago, when I quit my job to go backpacking in South America,” he recalls. It was during that journey that photography first entered his life, not as a profession but as a passion sparked by freedom and discovery.
What began with Fine Art influences soon expanded when Hubert moved to Japan. “I was really impressed by the Japanese Zen aesthetics, that beauty lies in the transient and imperfect,” he shares. That philosophy became the heartbeat of Hugh’s Hue, shaping a body of work that emphasizes calm, grace, and impermanence.
Over the last decade, his vision has matured into a distinctive fusion. “Our vision is to blend the elegance of Fine Art style with the beauty of Japanese Zen aesthetics.” His approach balances precision and spontaneity, turning fleeting emotions into timeless imagery.
The choice of equipment is integral to the process. “We use both digital and 35mm / medium format film,” Hubert explains. Film adds texture and nostalgia, while digital ensures flexibility and speed. Editing remains subtle and intentional. “Mostly it’s about colour — we want the images to have a unique colour tones while looking authentic.”
Asked what he loves most about being a photographer, Hubert smiles. “There are many things I enjoy — from doing style shoots where my imagination come to life, to shooting after parties where it’s just purely about capturing the moment.” The interplay between creativity and spontaneity keeps his work vibrant.
For Hugh, collaboration is everything. “I start by understanding each couple’s vision, stay flexible on their wedding day to capture key moments, and maintain clear communication throughout to deliver images that tell their unique story.” Flexibility and trust form the foundation of his process. Customization is always part of the experience. “Yes we do,” he adds, noting that no two weddings are ever alike.
Reflecting on his career, Hubert shares what he wishes he had known at the beginning. “I would tell myself to not be afraid to be honest, to trust my instincts and to keep doing the photography style that I like.” Authenticity has always been his compass.
When preparing for a shoot or wedding day, his guidance is clear. “Trust your photographer!” That trust, he believes, allows real emotions and unscripted beauty to emerge.
Hugh’s Hue has photographed weddings worldwide, yet one destination continues to inspire him most. “I am still relatively new to Japan, weddings in Japan still feel like destination weddings to me. I’d say my favourite destination is Japan.” Its landscapes, traditions, and serenity perfectly echo his Zen-inspired artistry.
Through his lens, Hugh’s Hue transforms impermanence into poetry. Each frame is more than documentation—it is a meditation on light, beauty, and the fleeting moments that define love.
