In the 1940s, as the Sino-Japanese War broke out, the Kao family was forced to flee the chaos of conflict, moving from Kunming to Chongqing and then to Chengdu. Amid uncertainty and displacement, the couple continued to rebuild their livelihood. Beyond photography, they were involved in trade, publishing, journalism, and medical-related businesses, while artistic portrait photography gradually became their most recognised and respected specialty.
| During those darkest years, Jan Yun Bor played an especially vital role. She was like a lighthouse in a storm, illuminating hope for the family with courage and conviction. She was not only a wife, a mother, and a co-founder of the family business; she was the true pillar of the company in its earliest years. Her spirit was that of a fearless entrepreneur — determined, resilient, and unafraid to move against the tide. |
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From wartime migration to post-war rebuilding in Hong Kong, she remained central to the company’s major decisions and direction. From the family’s modest workshop at 128 Austin Road, to later premises at 30 Nathan Road, 80 Nathan Road, and eventually the company’s self-owned flagship base at 12 Carnarvon Road in the heart of Tsim Sha Tsui, every milestone carried the mark of Jan Yun Bor’s judgement, courage, and vision.
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30 Nathan Road |
80 Nathan Road |
12 Carnarvon Road |
102 Austin Rd |
As post-war Hong Kong began to rebuild, International Photo grew alongside the city. The company expanded from photography and photographic equipment agency services into customised design, editing, publishing, printing, art production, cultural products, export sales, and other specialised creative fields. With its commitment to quality, sincerity, and distinctive service, International Photo earned a reputation that travelled far beyond Hong Kong.
International Photo Group Limited