Why Aren't You Taking Photos Anymore?

• Prize
  Silver in Book/Monograph
• Photographer
  Yuji Haikal, Malaysia
• Date of Photograph
  2022-2024
• Studio
  Yuji Haikal
• Website
  https://www.yujihaikal.com
• Instagram
  @yujihaikal
• PDF
  View

Everything began with a simple question.

In the final days before my father passed away, he quietly asked me, “Why aren’t you taking photos anymore?”

After his passing in March 2020, the question stayed with me. Years later, I returned to photography and began walking the streets again.

This photobook, crafted with love, is a testament to my beloved father and the beginning of an endless journey in the realm of photography. With every turn of a page, I pay homage to his unwavering belief in my dreams through the power of images.

Hi, I’m Yuji Haikal, a self taught photographer from Johor, Malaysia.

Photography came back into my life after a long break, guided by a question from my late father, “Why aren’t you taking photos anymore?” That question slowly brought me back to the streets.

I photograph quiet moments and everyday life. For me, photography is not about chasing something big, but about understanding what is already in front of me.

My photobook, Why Aren’t You Taking Photos Anymore?, reflects that journey. I’m grateful for the recognition, but I’m still learning, still observing, and still walking.

Awards Runner-up, Portrait Category, Xposure International Photography Awards, 2026

Book Photographer of the Year, International Photography Awards, 2024

Gold Medal, Book Category, Budapest International Foto Awards, 2025

Gold Medal, Book Category, Tokyo International Foto Awards, 2025

First Place, Kuala Lumpur Portrait Awards, 2025

Creator of the Year, Kuala Lumpur Photo Festival, 2025