Joy xu: Untamed & Unbound
CALEB SCHAFTLEIN,
Could you please provide us with a professional introduction about yourself and your photography work?
I’m a photographer dedicated to capturing raw emotion, human connection, and the essence of each individual’s story. My work blends fine art with documentary-style storytelling, allowing me to create images that feel deeply authentic and emotionally resonant.
With a background in both photography and spiritual practice, I approach my craft with a sense of mindfulness and intentionality. I believe that every photograph should not only be visually compelling but also carry meaning—whether it’s a personal milestone, a performance, or a fleeting moment of vulnerability.
For me, photography is more than a profession—it’s a way of honoring the depth and beauty of human experience. Every person has a story worth telling, and my goal is to bring those stories to life through powerful, timeless imagery.
What was your passion driving you during your journey? Who or what prompted you to begin?
I got started in photography because of the smile—the moment someone saw themselves in my photo. That instant of recognition, where they felt truly seen, moved me deeply. It made me realize that photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about capturing emotions, memories, and the essence of a person’s journey. From that moment on, I knew this was what I wanted to do—create images that resonate on a profound, emotional level.
Could you walk us through your photoshoot planning process?
My photoshoot planning process begins with understanding my client’s vision. I take the time to learn their story, emotions, and the message they want to convey. From there, I collaborate on concept development, discussing locations, styling, and the overall mood of the shoot. I believe that every detail—from lighting to body language—plays a role in bringing the vision to life.
On the day of the shoot, I create a space where my clients feel comfortable and free to express themselves. I guide them gently while allowing natural moments to unfold, capturing both posed and candid expressions that feel real and meaningful.
As a photography expert, what sets your work apart from other photographers?
What sets my work apart is my ability to capture deep, authentic emotion. I don’t just take photos—I create images that make people feel something. With a background in fine art and spiritual practice, I bring a mindful, intuitive approach to every shoot, ensuring that my subjects feel truly seen and understood.
My expertise in human connection allows me to capture moments that go beyond aesthetics—whether it’s a quiet vulnerability, a powerful presence, or a fleeting, genuine expression. I also take the time to understand my clients’ stories, so every image reflects their essence in a meaningful way.
Where do you get your ideas for photoshoots?
They appear in my heart and mind.
Can you tell us about the most memorable moment you've had as a photographer and what experience you gained from that?
One of the most memorable moments in my photography career was when a client, with deep emotion, told me, "You made me who I am today." She shared that because of the photos I took, she started receiving job offers, landed a magazine cover, and gained newfound confidence in herself. She told me she hopes I’ll be there to capture every milestone in her life—from graduation to marriage to motherhood.
That moment reaffirmed why I do what I do. Photography isn’t just about taking pictures; it’s about empowering people, helping them see their own beauty and potential. It showed me the profound impact an image can have on someone’s life, and it deepened my commitment to creating work that is not only visually striking but also transformative.
What are the most important components of an extraordinary photograph, in your opinion?
In my opinion, a great photograph is one where you can read emotions and stories within the image. A photograph should carry an energy that resonates with the viewer, making them pause—even if just for three seconds—to truly be present in the moment.
I believe an extraordinary photograph has three key elements:
Emotion & Storytelling – A powerful image allows people to feel something. Whether it’s joy, contemplation, strength, or vulnerability, the emotions captured in the frame should be tangible.
Energy & Atmosphere – Photography is not just about documenting—it’s about conveying energy. A truly compelling image makes the viewer feel the atmosphere, the warmth, or the intensity within it.
A Moment of Presence – A great photograph isn’t just glanced at; it invites the viewer to pause, absorb, and connect with the moment it holds.
At its core, photography is about more than just what we see—it’s about what we feel.
How do you strike a balance between your artistic expression and your client's expectations during a shoot?
I see photography as a chemical reaction—a great image isn’t created by me alone, but by the collaboration of many elements. The subject, the weather, the energy of the day, the location, even the trees and flowing water nearby—all play a role in shaping the final image.
Because of this, I don’t see my artistic vision and my client’s expectations as opposing forces. Instead, I embrace the idea that we are creating something together. I bring my intuition, experience, and perspective, while my client brings their story, emotions, and presence. Rather than imposing a rigid vision, I stay open to the natural flow of the moment, allowing all these elements to merge organically.
In the end, every photograph is a shared creation—not just between me and the person in front of the camera, but also with the space around us and even the future viewers who will connect with the image. That’s what makes each shoot unique and alive.
How do other artists influence your work? Are there any other photographers you look up to? Who?
I deeply admire Annie Leibovitz for her ability to capture raw emotion and tell compelling stories through her portraits. Her work goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about depth, presence, and the essence of the subject. I’m especially inspired by how she seamlessly blends artistry with storytelling, creating images that feel both intimate and iconic.
Beyond specific photographers, I also draw inspiration from nature. The way light falls on a landscape, the energy of a scene, the emotions evoked by a tree, the feeling of wind touches the skin, all shape how I see and capture the world through my lens.
For me, photography isn’t just about technique—it’s about feeling. The artists I admire remind me that the most powerful images are the ones that make people pause, connect, and truly feel something.
What are your top tips for aspiring photographers on skill development and finding their own creative voice? How did you develop yours?
experiment fearlessly.
Can you tell us the story behind creating the photographs you submitted?
One of the photographs I submitted features Elva, a content creator with over 200,000 followers. Our goal was to create a series of images that empower women, capturing strength, freedom, and authenticity.
To guide her, I asked her to imagine her most powerful future self—what does she look like? How does she feel? She shared that she loves the present moment, the act of creation, and the experience of being a vessel for the world to move through her. She spoke about fully surrendering, becoming one with her body, flowing like a river—open, free, and nourishing to those around her.
That day, nature gave us the perfect setting: a raging storm. Fierce winds and heavy rain crashed around us, but instead of stopping, we embraced it. And in that moment, something incredible happened—she became the force of nature itself. She was no longer just in the world; she was the world. Unbound, fearless, completely alive in the elements.
The result was more than just a set of photographs—it was an experience, a transformation. It captured the raw, untamed power of being fully present, fully open, and fully free.
When you go on a photoshoot what are the essentials that are always in your bag?
Chocolate
Where can we view more of your work and connect with you?
Instagram: x_xu721; imaginethisstudio
Website: imaginethisstudio
