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**A Life Through the Lens: The Story of Lu Houmin, the "Red Photographer"**
When people think of Lu Houmin, many photographers might immediately associate him with the title of “red photographer.†At 82 years old, this legendary figure has a deep background in photography and is well-known for being a professional photographer to Mao Zedong from 1961 to 1964. As a guest judge at the National Weihai Photography Competition, Lu Houmin recently shared his experiences and insights during an exclusive interview with this reporter. He discussed what it means to be a “red photographer†and how his work has shaped the public’s perception of history.
Mao never limited me in my work.
Born in Yilan County, Heilongjiang Province, in 1928, Lu Houmin has always been passionate about capturing life through the lens. In 1948, he left school and joined the Northeast Film Studio, marking the beginning of his long and influential career. After several transfers, he was eventually stationed at Zhongnanhai, where he worked closely with state leaders, including Mao Zedong.
“When I first met Mao Zedong, I was so nervous that I couldn’t even focus on the camera,†Lu recalled. “But over time, I realized that the leaders were very approachable and unpretentious.†During his 12 years of working with Mao, Lu never once saw him scold or restrict his work. Whether at work or at home, Mao always allowed Lu to take photos freely. Even when Lu occasionally staged scenes, Mao would happily cooperate.
Because of this trust and support, we are able to see some of the most intimate and human moments of Mao—such as his travels along the Yangtze River or playing table tennis—captured in beautiful and natural photographs.
The lens is used to express emotions.
Over the course of more than 50 years behind the camera, Lu Houmin has captured countless memorable moments. One of his most iconic photos was taken after the 24th meeting of the Central People's Government Committee in 1953. While others were leaving the venue, Lu remained, observing carefully. He then captured a classic image of Premier Zhou Enlai walking toward Chairman Mao.
Another famous photo, “Farewell to Volunteers Returning to China,†was taken during the Korean War and received international recognition, winning silver in Germany, gold in the Soviet Union, and first prize in Cuba. His photo titled “Duck†also earned top honors from the Belgian Royal Photographic Society.
For Lu, photography is not just about light and shadow—it’s about emotion and storytelling. He believes that as a responsible photographer, one should use the power of the lens to document real life and bring attention to important events. His goal is to capture the essence of life in a simple yet powerful way, making each image feel alive and meaningful.
Photo contests help spread the beauty of Weihai.
Lu Houmin praised the National Weihai Photography Competition, saying that it’s not only a way to record the beauty of the city but also a platform to showcase Weihai to the world. “Photography is the most direct and effective way to present things,†he said. “Through this event, people across the country can get to know Weihai better.â€
He visited Weihai over ten years ago on official business and was amazed by how much the city had changed. “Back then, the urban development was still in its early stages. Now, the beaches and architecture are truly remarkable,†he said.
During the competition, he was deeply impressed by the works submitted under themes like “Blue Weihai,†“Living Weihai,†and “Ecological Weihai.†He especially appreciated the photos that captured local customs and the relaxed lifestyle of the city’s residents. “These images have brought Weihai to life in a three-dimensional way,†he said.
Lu also expressed his desire to share some of his own works in Beijing, hoping to inspire more people through his photography.
On the same day, after finishing the judging session, he eagerly wrote messages for the readers of *Weihai Daily* and *Weihai Evening News*, expressing his wishes for a brighter future for the city. “I hope Weihai continues to grow and shine,†he said.