A view of Wei-Hai-Wei harbour, Liukung Island and its town, and the vessels in harbour Possibly 1895

This photograph of Wei-Hai-Wei harbour was produced by the Ordnance Survey Office. Photography, like all processes, has its own inherent qualities, isn't simply about capturing an image. The grayscale and tonal range evoke a certain mood and historical context. The physical act of taking, developing, and printing the photograph, involved specific labor and technical expertise. The Ordnance Survey Office was commissioned by the British military, and the image itself reflects British colonial interests in China during the late 19th century. The choice of subject, the framing of the harbor, and the inclusion of vessels all contribute to a narrative of power and control. By focusing on the photograph as a material object, we can challenge the notion that it is simply a neutral representation of reality. Instead, we can recognize the complex social and political forces that shaped its production.