Young Hama is a Tokyo-based photographer who focuses his photography on capturing the essence of people's lives. He showcases the raw, underground scenes of diverse neighborhoods, primarily in Koenji, Shibuya, and Shinjuku, where various lives intersect.

Yokogao had a chat with Young Hama, diving into his work that covers the vivid nights of Tokyo.

What are you looking for when wandering the streets of Tokyo with your camera at the ready?

I'm looking for people who live freely and vibrantly. I mainly photograph individuals, and I'm particularly interested in those who lead unconventional lives—skaters, rappers, sex workers, drug dealers, the homeless, and others who don't fit the norm. I aim to capture their lifestyles and convey the essence of human freedom to everyone.

street photography tokyo — by Young Hama

Your work can sometimes be seens as pretty intrusive or “in-your-face”. Do you think this is an important element of your creative process?

This is a very important aspect for me. I believe that a person's expressions are their most revealing feature. By capturing expressions, I hope to reflect their emotions and perhaps even their life stories. I always strive to get close and make eye contact in my photos because I feel it allows me to truly connect with the subject. This close distance is part of my style. By narrowing the gap, I believe both the subject and I can sense each other's presence through the camera, almost like having a conversation, which results in better photographs.

Why do you opt for Black and white photography?

Black and white photography strips away extraneous details, creating a more direct impact on the viewer. Without the distraction of color, the viewer's attention is naturally drawn to the essential elements, such as expressions and actions.

Do you have a favorite location in Tokyo to wander & shoot?

The top spot is the plaza in front of Koenji Station's north exit. While it seems fewer people are gathering outdoors in Tokyo, this place still attracts many visitors night after night. In the plaza, people of all ages and backgrounds, including band members and skaters, sit around, drink, and connect across genres.

Want to tell us something about your gear, and how you adapt it to the environment you're shooting in?

The equipment I'm currently using a lot is the Nikon F6. Since I prefer getting close to my subjects, I often use a slightly wide-angle lens around 24-28mm. I used to use the PENTAX 67 before. Since I take a lot of night photos, a flash is essential. When shooting without approaching my subjects, I sometimes use a dummy flash to get them to look towards me, capturing the moment when they turn towards the light.

Join the upcoming Young Hama Solo exhibition

YOUNG HAMA PHOTO EXHIBITION 24
自躍自在ーYou can leap as you likeー

2024.06.15-06.23 AT: MESSCRIB TOKYO

Hours
Tue-Fri 15:00-20:00
Sat-Sun 12:00 - 20:00

Address
201 Perlhouse 22-3 Sarugakucho Shibuya Tokyo Slow

Burnin' MTG 6/15(Sat) at SALOON Daikanyama
Open 23:00 - late
DOOR
Men ¥2,000 / Women ¥1,000