Born and grew up in New Territories, Hong Kong in the 1950s. Family were farmers and attended the local Christian church. After finishing school worked in a jewellery store before migrating to the UK aged 13. Lived in Liverpool where father had a laundrette business. Moved to Moss Side in Manchester in 1967 where the family brought a fish and chip shop. First job was in a café which funded his photography hobby. Later promoted to waiter. Met wife at the restaurant where worked and married in 1972. Retired at age 68.