• The Journal of the Korea Contents Association
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• v.18 no.3
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• pp.330-341
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• 2018

In recent years, a number of Chinese artists are interested in 'Chinese-style'. 'Chinese-style' can be understood as an art form in which Chinese elements are combined with modernized sensibilities. This paper analyzed how Chinese traditional elements can be effectively implemented in fashion photography, focusing on Chen Man, a leading fashion photographer in China. Our research shows that Chen Man looks to the traditions and history of China to inspire her modern work, which makes her unique as a Chinese fashion photographer. She tried not to repetitively express typical images of Chinese elements but to visualize the symbolic meaning of traditional elements as new images of modern China. Through this practice, she were able to effectively communicate the images of products and brands promoted in fashion photos. Furthermore, her works are being recognized by not only the fashion industry but also the international art elite as they contribute to building and promoting Chinese fashion identity. Research on Chen Man's work is significant in providing a new way for 'Chinese-style' fashion photographers to reinterpret Chinese traditional elements without following Chinese tradition.