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Showing posts with the label Provoke

Yutaka Takanashi

  Yutaka Takanashi: The Poet of Tokyo’s Concrete Yutaka Takanashi (1935–2019) was one of Japan’s most influential postwar photographers, known for his poetic yet analytical exploration of Tokyo’s urban landscape. A founding member of the legendary Provoke movement (alongside Daidō Moriyama and Takuma Nakahira), Takanashi captured the tension between modernity and tradition — between the individual and the overwhelming machinery of the city. His work combined intellectual rigor with emotional intensity, making him a central figure in Japanese photographic history. Camera Gear Yutaka Takanashi’s choice of gear reflected his transition from commercial photography to avant-garde personal projects: Nikon F and F2 (35mm film) – His primary cameras during the 1960s and 1970s; rugged, reliable, and suited to the rapid rhythm of street photography. Nikon F Leica M3 and M4 – Occasionally used for quieter, more intimate work. Leica M4 Nikkor 35mm f/2 and 50mm f/1.4 lenses – His...

Daido Moriyama

  Daido Moriyama, the influential Japanese street photographer, is renowned for his raw, high-contrast black-and-white imagery that captures the gritty essence of urban life. His choice of camera gear has consistently reflected his philosophy of spontaneity, simplicity, and unfiltered expression. Primary Camera Gear Ricoh GR Series (Film and Digital) : Moriyama has long favored the Ricoh GR series, starting with the 35mm film-based GR1s and later transitioning to digital models like the GR Digital and GR III. He appreciates these cameras for their compactness, lightweight design, and fixed 28mm lens, which allow for quick, unobtrusive shooting—essential for his candid street photography. Ricoh GR1 Ricoh GR III Nikon F and FM SLRs : In the earlier stages of his career, Moriyama utilized Nikon F and FM series SLR cameras. These robust, manual-focus cameras enabled him to capture the dynamic street scenes that became a hallmark of his work. Nikon F Nikon FM Nikon Coolpix S91...