Wei-Kai Lin
Documentary & People Photography - Lifestyle Photography
Platinum Award & Best Photo of the Season
This photo captures those few seconds of silence between the train and the station attendant. On the left side of the picture, a station attendant in uniform and a hat stands upright with his head slightly turned towards the direction of the train, as if he is confirming whether the doors are closed, whether the passengers are safe, or waiting for the final departure signal. His posture was full of responsibility and concentration, as if he was the last line of defense of order on this platform.
The train carriage on the right side of the picture extends closely to the frame, with light and shadow vaguely reflected in the steel blue-gray tones. The yellow lines on the body of the train are like a silent guide, leading the eyes into the depths of the picture. The whole photo is low-key and cold in color. The strong shadows and high contrast create a sense of tension, and also symbolize the silent and compactness of the train about to leave.
This is a picture about "waiting" and "preparation". No matter whether the train is about to depart or has just arrived, this moment captures the pause before movement and the figures silently performing their duties at their posts.