A woman looks at award-winning American photographers' photos taken during their journey across Guangdong, China, at a special exhibition at the California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), in Long Beach, California, the United States, on Feb. 20, 2025. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

For the four photographers, the trip to China left a lasting impact, deepening their understanding of the country's culture and way of life.

In a lecture hall at the California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), a series of striking photographs transported the audience across the Pacific -- into the bustling markets of south China's Guangdong Province, the serene villages of the Yao ethnic minority, and the rhythmic movements of the traditional Yingge folk dance.

The images were part of a special exhibition capturing the essence of China through the creative lens of four award-winning American photographers.

Last November, the photographers embarked on an 11-day journey across Guangdong, exploring its rich history, diverse communities, and evolving modern identity. From daily life to traditional celebrations, they documented the province's vibrancy, culture, and rapid development.

At a storytelling event at CSULB on Thursday, the photographers shared their experiences with students, scholars, and faculty, offering a firsthand account of their journey.
People look at award-winning American photographers' photos taken during their journey across Guangdong, China, at a special exhibition at the California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), in Long Beach, California, the United States, on Feb. 20, 2025. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

FRESH PERSPECTIVES ON CHINA

"One thing that really impressed me about China, particularly in Guangdong Province, is the widespread use of electric vehicles -- not just cars, but also motor scooters and other transportation," said Michael Nelson, a recipient of the U.S. National Press Photographers Association's Best of Photojournalism award.

"In downtown areas of these massive cities with populations exceeding 20 million, it's surprisingly quiet. You don't smell exhaust fumes, and the air feels clean. It's a healthier environment," Nelson added, recalling his time in China.

He told Xinhua he was struck by China's technological advancements, openness, and commitment to environmental sustainability.
Michael Nelson, a recipient of the U.S. National Press Photographers Association's Best of Photojournalism award, shares his journey across Guangdong, China, during an interview with Xinhua at a special exhibition at the California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), in Long Beach, California, the United States, on Feb. 20, 2025. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

From intricate face painting and traditional folk dances to enduring Kung Fu practices and local delicacies, the photographers sought to document not only China's landscapes and traditions, but also the spirit of its people and the dynamic transformation of modern Chinese society.

"We were free to take pictures, and the people we met were very friendly," said Irfan Khan, a Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer recognized for his team's breaking news coverage of the 2015 San Bernardino terrorist attack.

"Chinese people enjoy their lives. They are hardworking, disciplined, and very well-organized," Khan noted, calling the culture "vibrant" and "colorful."

He was particularly impressed by China's advanced digital payment systems. "Even in the smallest villages, at tiny kiosks selling candies and other goods, you can use Alipay or scan a QR code to pay instead of using cash," Khan said.

Nelson echoed this sentiment: "From rural areas to major cities, technology is making life more convenient and improving efficiency for people everywhere."

A man looks at award-winning American photographers' photos taken during their journey across Guangdong, China, at a special exhibition at the California State University, Long Beach (CSULB), in Long Beach, California, the United States, on Feb. 20, 2025. (Photo by Zeng Hui/Xinhua)

BRIDGING CULTURES THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY

For the four photographers, the trip left a lasting impact, deepening their understanding of China's culture and way of life.

For many in the audience, the exhibition and storytelling session provided a rare, unfiltered view of China beyond the headlines. Some were particularly drawn to the depictions of daily life -- children playing in village courtyards, artisans crafting intricate works, and elders practicing Tai Chi in local parks.

"It's amazing to experience cultural differences through their photography," Mariana Barrios, a staff member of the International Training Program at CSULB, told Xinhua.

"You see a little bit of everything -- choreographed performances, food, people's daily activities, stunning architecture, and the unique atmospheres they captured," she noted.

"The expressions on people's faces in these photos really convey their emotions. Whether it's a group gathering around a table or someone quietly enjoying a cup of tea, these images help us better understand how Chinese people live their daily lives," Barrios added.

CSULB President Jane Close Conoley underscored the importance of fostering cultural understanding in today's world.

"This is a time when we should be doubling down on building person-to-person and culture-to-culture understanding," she said.

She reaffirmed the university's commitment to organizing more events like this to facilitate cultural connections and deepen mutual understanding between different communities.