Aiming for the skies
Well-known Chinese astrophotographer says creating a work that can move viewers is the ultimate goal of his art
Means of survival
Wary of further copyright entanglements, Dai refuses to license his images through third-party websites. He still has older photos, dating back to before 2020, on two international platforms. But most of his sales are direct, reaching a global audience that appreciates his unique perspective on the universe.
"Occasionally, I receive emails from international admirers interested in buying my photos," he said. "I typically charge around $10-100 per image. Besides, I earn about $200-300 each quarter from sales on image platforms."
Since deciding to work as a professional photographer in 2015, he has become a member of the Chinese Photographers Association, a member of the Chinese Astronomical Society, and a science popularization blogger. He is also a member of The World At Night project and national coordinator at Astronomers Without Borders.
His photos have won him many awards, including a Gold Award at the 2023 China Image Contest and the first prize at the 2023 Astronomy Photography Competition of the Chinese Astronomical Society. They were published not only in China's major media outlets such as Xinhua News Agency and People's Daily, but also in international sources such as NASA, National Geographic, PNAS, and Nature magazine. His work has been exhibited at the National Museum of China, the Tiangong space station, and the National Museum of Natural History in the United States.
Even though he has become one of the country's best astrophotographers, Dai said that the income from his photos is negligible.
According to Dai, there are essentially two paths to survival for an independent astrophotographer in China — become an online influencer or a stargazing guide.
Dai has been fortunate enough to carve out a successful path by cultivating a massive online presence. With over three million followers across various platforms, he's a recognized figure on the Chinese astrophotography scene.
"With advertisement endorsements from various online platforms, I'm no longer concerned about making a living," Dai said. "This allows me to dedicate my energy to planning my photography projects and exploring new creative avenues."
