by: TN Media News: In celebration of its 20th anniversary, global tech leader OPPO has partnered with the Discovery Channel to launch an ambitious initiative titled Culture in a Shot. This global project aims to celebrate and preserve cultural diversity using advanced imaging technology, spotlighting communities and traditions that are often overlooked. Since its inception in 2004, OPPO has expanded into more than 60 countries and regions, and its commitment to cultural diversity remains a key part of its identity. This collaboration with Discovery seeks to not only capture cultural heritage but also ensure its continuity for future generations.
The central theme of this year’s Culture in a Shot project is Portraits of Legacy, focusing on the preservation of cultural traditions through OPPO’s state-of-the-art imaging technology. Renowned photographer Jerome Teo was tapped to bring this theme to life, capturing the vibrant essence of various cultures across the globe. Through his lens, OPPO showcases the enduring stories of individuals who are keeping their cultural legacies alive—from traditional musicians in Thailand to batik artisans in Indonesia and flamenco dancers in Spain.
A Journey of Cultural Discovery: Thailand, Indonesia, and Spain:
The cultural exploration begins in Chiang Mai, Thailand, where Jerome Teo traveled north along the Thailand-Myanmar border. Amid rolling hills and lush paddy fields, he encountered the hill tribes of Northern Thailand. Each ethnic group, such as the Lisu and Lahu people, possesses distinct languages, customs, and artistic traditions. From the music of the Lisu tribe to the intricate rattan weaving of the Lahu, these groups express their rich heritage through a blend of music, crafts, and rituals. Jerome’s imagery—captured with the OPPO Reno12 Pro—brings these cultural narratives to life, offering a glimpse into the unique diversity of the region.
Teo’s journey then led him to Yogyakarta, Indonesia, where he explored the centuries-old craft of batik. Batik, an ancient textile art, is painstakingly created through intricate patterns and natural dyes. In his photographs, Teo captures the devotion of local artisans striving to keep this heritage alive in the face of industrialization, which threatens the practice among younger generations. His images reveal the beauty of batik as a defining symbol of Indonesian identity, once again showcasing the power of OPPO’s imaging technology in documenting cultural preservation.
The final stop in Teo’s journey took him to Seville, Spain, where he photographed the passionate art of flamenco dancing. Born from the traditions of traveling gypsies, flamenco is a powerful expression of Andalusian culture. Teo’s images capture the raw emotion of flamenco dancers, dressed in iconic bata de cola dresses, performing in Seville’s historic Triana district. While flamenco has drawn global attention, concerns have emerged about its commercialization. Teo’s work highlights the dedication of artists striving to protect the true essence of this art form, blending emotion and identity through OPPO’s cutting-edge technology.
Global Engagement and the Power of Technology:
In addition to showcasing these cultural stories, OPPO is encouraging communities worldwide to participate in the preservation of their own heritage. In Malaysia, OPPO has launched the #OPPOMalaysiaThroughTheLens initiative, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture and the Malaysian National Commission for UNESCO. This campaign invites Malaysians to use OPPO’s smartphones to capture the beauty of their traditional art forms, including the Wayang Kulit shadow puppet theater, the Iban Ngajat Dance, and Teochew Opera. By engaging with these cultural expressions, the initiative hopes to reignite interest in Malaysia’s rich artistic history.
OPPO is also leveraging its latest GenAI technology to offer new ways for users to experience cultural traditions. The OPPO AI Studio, featured in the Reno12 series, allows users to generate studio-quality portraits of themselves as flamenco dancers. This feature provides a unique and immersive way for people to engage with cultural heritage, regardless of their location.
Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Cultural Preservation:
The Culture in a Shot project marks the beginning of OPPO’s long-term commitment to cultural preservation. In the coming months, OPPO plans to expand the initiative to include virtual tours in countries such as India and Mexico, using its cutting-edge imaging technology to shine a spotlight on underrepresented cultures. Through this project, OPPO is not only capturing the beauty of cultural diversity but also fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of these timeless traditions.
As OPPO celebrates 20 years of innovation, it continues to show that technology can be a powerful tool in preserving and protecting the world’s cultural heritage, ensuring that future generations can experience the richness of global diversity.
