‘Flirtatious’ US$2,500 photo shoots for ‘lonely’ middle-aged women spark backlash in China

A Chinese photographer, known online as "Duan Gongzi," is facing intense public criticism for his US$2,500 photoshoots targeted at middle-aged women. The 48-year-old army veteran, based in Wuhan, charges clients 16,800 yuan for 36 unedited portraits in his studio. Duan claims his sessions are empathetic exchanges meant to capture clients' authentic selves, but behind-the-scenes footage reveals sexually suggestive remarks during the shoots.

In one clip, Duan teases a client, saying, "What are you hiding it for?" when she tries to cover her chest. Another client comments on her bra color, and Duan jokes, "I did a psychic reading – you are wearing white bra today." He also teases women about their behavior, such as fiddling with their dresses, and remarks on their obedience. Duan even tells one client, "You are making me drool here. It feels like I can barely pump the brakes."

Despite his high prices and questionable conduct, Duan's business has thrived, with nearly 400,000 followers on Douyin. At a recent fan meeting, attendees praised him as an "elegant, cultured gentleman" who embodies "traditional male charm." However, younger generations have expressed concern over his behavior, which some argue borders on sexual harassment disguised as charm.

Observers argue that Duan's actions are problematic because true respect should make someone feel safe and dignified, not flustered. Some online commentators sympathize with the clients, suggesting that women who lack validation in traditional marriages may be particularly vulnerable to flattery. The controversy underscores the significant economic power of China's older generation, with the "silver economy" worth about 7 trillion yuan, increasingly driven by e-commerce and lifestyle experiences.

The case highlights the psychological needs of older consumers in China, who are finding their personal aspirations fulfilled by a growing awareness of women's rights. Many middle-aged women in China are seeking attention and validation after decades of shouldering heavy domestic responsibilities in patriarchal households, where self-expression was discouraged.

This emotional void has created a market for online creators like Duan. Similar scenarios have emerged with male live-streamers and AI personas cashing in on the loneliness of middle-aged and elderly women. In November, AI-generated "tragic boys" attracted sympathy and purchases from middle-aged women on social media. In 2023, a 39-year-old man known as "Xiucai" amassed over 10 million followers with flirtatious lip-sync videos, raking in over 500,000 yuan in tips before attempting to meet an online fan in person.