As a still life photographer based in New York, Tatsuro Nishimura has had the privilege of collaborating with creative minds who inspire him to push boundaries, none more so than Stephen Kamifuji, the visionary creative director of Genlux magazine. Over the years, their partnership has evolved into a seamless exchange of ideas, blending Stephen’s sharp eye for fashion trends with Tatsuro’s passion for visual storytelling. Together, they craft stories like “Makeup Symphony” (above, left) and “Golden Hour” (above, right) where beauty meets still life in striking harmony.

By: Tatsuro Nishimura, Photographer, Tatsuro Nishimura Photography

I am a still life photographer based in the New York area. Both works, “Makeup Symphony” and “Golden Hour,” were created for Genlux magazine, a Los Angeles-based luxury fashion publication. 

I have been working with Stephen Kamifuji, the creative director from Genlux, for many years. What I love about working with him is that he trusts my creativity and skills; he has great eyes and a wonderful sense of imagination. 

We usually start with a casual conversation. He goes, “Do you want to create a story for us? We have products for you to shoot?” or I go to him, “Can we create a story? I have an idea.” 

Then, we combine the ideas and develop the concept of the story together. I make sketches. He is even better; he creates digital references based on our ideas. Communication with him is one of the most important and enjoyable aspects of the projects.

Stephen is a professional with a thorough understanding of fashion and visual trends; on the other hand, I am a photographer focused on my vision. So when we work together, we have great chemistry that enables us to produce exceptional work. 

Regarding “Makeup Symphony” especially, it is a combination of beauty and still life. The lighting for beauty and still life requires a different approach. So, I needed to find the best lighting that works for both the model and the cosmetic products. For the same reason, I had to find the best composition. To do so, our model, Xenia Micsanschi, had to stay completely still in the same position until we got a perfect shot. 

We also wanted the model to have a slightly artificial look, so our makeup artist, Yoshie Kubota, accomplished that, and I purposefully over-retouched it. 

It’s a team effort, and without Xenia and Yoshie, we wouldn’t be able to achieve the shots we wanted. I am happy with how they turned out, and I hope the magazine and the brands have generated some sales as a result of these photos. 

Graphis is a publication that I have enjoyed browsing since I was a teenager in Japan, so I am truly honored to see my work featured in it. I have been submitting my work to the Graphis Photography Awards since 2017. Every year, I want to win, but it’s also a great opportunity for me to look back on the work I have done during that year. It’s become my annual work event.

I am not really in a position to advise fellow creatives, but I can share the cherished advice I received from Michael Ash. He is a creative consultant and a legendary photographer’s agent who says, “Show your voice in your portfolio. It’s not about what moves people, but about what moves you.” 

I try not to think about the future because it gives me anxiety. I focus on what I can do today and see what the future brings. 

This industry has undergone significant changes and is poised to evolve further. Social media has taken over our lives, and AI is likely to eliminate some photography jobs. Modern technology enables everyone to take decent photos, which has put professional photographers in a corner. Just writing this is giving me anxiety! 

However, when examining the history of photography, it becomes clear that photography and technology have evolved in tandem, and there have always been artists who created beautiful images using the tools available at the time. It’s all about the artist’s vision. I will stay true to my vision.

Tatsuro Nishimura is a commercial still life photographer working based in New York. Originally from Tokyo, he spent his teenage years in a small town in Japan. His interest in photography and American culture began during adolescence, sparked by his father’s passion for country music.

In 2005, Tatsuro relocated to New York City, where he launched his career in commercial photography while attending the School of Visual Arts. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a go-to photographer for editorial and commercial clients. Known for his exceptional lighting skills, Tatsuro uses light as a tool to add depth and emotion to every image. Whether using natural or artificial light, his precise yet creative control transforms his subjects, enhancing the visual impact and creating a unique atmosphere in each composition.

Tatsuro’s approach to photography is also defined by an unwavering commitment to detail and his perfectionist eye. Every frame is meticulously crafted, emphasizing styling, lighting, and composition to ensure that no element is overlooked. His precision and dedication to excellence in his commercial and fine artwork have earned him recognition in competitive and exhibition spaces. His images have been showcased in solo and group exhibitions at renowned venues such as Soho Photo Gallery in New York, the Apple Store, and Adorama. He has received prestigious accolades from competitions such as the Graphis Photo Annual, the International Photography Awards, the Black and White Photography Magazine Portfolio Awards, the Communication Arts Photo Award, and the Applied Arts Award. His work has been featured in major publications like American Craft, Bloomberg Businessweek, New Scientist, and Sports Illustrated. He has also contributed to high-profile advertising campaigns for brands such as Stetson, Hamilton Watches, Macy’s, Puma, and Schott NYC.

When Tatsuro isn’t working on client projects, he can be found with his wife, two young children, Bernese Mountain Dog, and a camera.

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