Tatsuo Suzuki

In this episode of Street Life, John and Mark had the incredible opportunity to speak with Tatsuo Suzuki, a celebrated street photographer based in Tokyo. Tatsuo is known for his bold, high-contrast imagery and his unique approach to capturing raw human emotion.

We delved into his journey into photography, which began later in life after his time in a rock band and a corporate job. He shared how he found self-expression through photography, particularly street photography, and how his experiences shaped his artistic vision.

Tatsuo opened up about his early influences, including iconic photographers like Daido Moriyama and Robert Frank, and discussed the importance of intimacy in his work, especially when photographing marginalised communities like the homeless. We explored the ethical considerations of street photography and how Tatsuya navigates the fine line between capturing candid moments and respecting his subjects.

A significant portion of our conversation focused on Tatsuo's recent work, including his book "The Sound of Waves," which he created as a tribute to a late friend and fellow photographer. He explained the symbolism of water and life in his series, emphasising the emotional depth behind his images.

We also touched on the Fujifilm controversy that Tatsuo faced, where he clarified misconceptions about his role in a promotional video and expressed his thoughts on the impact it had on his career.

As we wrapped up, Tatsuo shared his thoughts on the legacy he hopes to leave behind and the significance of community in photography, particularly through his collective, Void Tokyo. 

We hope you enjoy listening to Tatsuo's story as much as we enjoyed sharing it!

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