Notable Japanese Photographers
September 30, 2023 issue #87 – There are so many to choose from – here are a few.
I was trying to think of something to write about today, so, for inspiration, I was looking at the photography books in my bookcase when it occurred to me that most of my photography books are by middle-aged white men who look pretty much like me… but with talent.
I think that’s natural – many of us tend to relate to or feel more at one with, others who look and sound like us. Inherently, there’s nothing wrong with that, but if we want to grow as a photographer (and as a human), that attitude can be detrimental – there’s a vast world out there. It can be personally fulfilling to glimpse how that world looks through the eyes of those who do not look or sound like we do.
With that in mind, I’ll delve into the work of some photographers who do not look and sound like I do for the next several newsletters. In today’s newsletter, I’ll talk about three notable Japanese photographers whose work I am familiar with. Feel free to mention, in the comments, others I’ve omitted here.
Daidō Moriyama
Daidō Moriyama is a renowned Japanese photographer born in Ikeda, Osaka, on October 10, 1938. Emerging in the post-war era, Moriyama is a key figure in the Provoke movement, which sought to break away from traditional photographic conventions. His work is characterized by its raw and gritty aesthetic, often capturing urban life's chaotic and intense energy.
Moriyama's iconic black-and-white images often feature high contrast, blur, and unconventional framing, reflecting the spontaneity of street photography. Over the years, he has published numerous photo books, such as Farewell Photography and Hokkaido, solidifying his status as one of Japan's most influential photographers.
I own two books by Moriyama: Daido Moriyama (Photofile Paperback) – a physically small book but an excellent introduction to his work and, more recently, I purchased, Daido Moriyama – this is a large hardcover book that contains most, if not all, of his best work.
Masahisa Fukase
Masahisa Fukase, born on February 25, 1934, in Hokkaido, Japan, was a highly regarded photographer recognized for his profound exploration of personal and emotional themes.
Fukase's most celebrated work is the photo book Ravens (1986), a visual elegy reflecting his anguish and heartbreak following a divorce. The series is known for its symbolic use of ravens as metaphors for loss and despair. Fukase's distinctive style often involved experimentation with form and narrative, making him a pioneering force in contemporary Japanese photography. Tragically, Fukase fell into a coma after a fall in 1992 and passed away in 2012, leaving behind a body of work that continues to captivate audiences.
I own only one book by Fukase, but it may be his most celebrated – Ravens.
Takuma Nakahira
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to Anthony Morganti on Photography to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.