8 Questions for Shiori Kawamoto

What inspired you to become a photographer?

Elimination. But I think I just liked being able to handle tools and machines.
I wasn't drawn to photography itself, but to the camera.
The fact that half the result is determined on location.
Similarities to musical instruments (rhythm, sound, response).

What job made you feel like a professional?

“BRUTUS” No. 545, “Kyoto Guide for Foreigners” (Magazine House)
Seeing my photos used as cover art, displayed on trains, and featured in POP displays at bookstores made me go, “Whoa!” (laughs).

Can you describe your style in your own words?

A scene.
It’s less about visualizing an image from my mind and more about developing the phenomenon that exists right there.

What would you title this series of work?

This is Idol.

What should people look for in these photos?

The scenery of Akihabara as seen by the women who work there.

Your rival?

Time.

What are your future aspirations?

I want to publish a photo book. I also want to hold an exhibition.

A message to OPENERS readers who have seen your work?

By chance, I've been photographing the women who work in Akihabara.
These photographs are a record of two years. It feels like only two years have passed. It went by in a flash, and it's still ongoing. While it's certainly a town for otaku, it's also a fascinating place as a hub for cultural expression.
If these photos pique your interest, please come visit without any preconceived notions.

Special Thanks by
Akihabara Dear Stage & All Dear Girls
GENEON UNIVERSAL ENTERTAINMENT

Exhibiting at the following event, featuring "This is Idol"

TOKYO GRAPHIC PASSPORT 2010
“Portfolio Viewing Award”
Part 1: September 23 (Thu) – 24 (Fri) Graphic Design / Photography
12:00–19:00
3331 Arts Chiyoda, 1F Community Space

3331 Arts Chiyoda
6-11-14 Sotokanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
http://www.3331.jp/

TOKYO GRAPHIC PASSPORT 2010
http://www.grapass.net/2010/jpn/index.html

Portfolio Viewing Award
http://www.grapass.net/2010/jpn/programs03.html




Shiori Kawamoto
Born April 6, 1973, in Kyoto; raised in Kanazawa.
1995: Graduated from Kyoto University of Art and Design, Department of Visual Communication Design.
1997: Left Kanazawa College of Art graduate program.
2005: Moved to Tokyo.

Primary subjects: people and landscapes.
Media: Web, magazines, advertisements, catalogs, CD jackets, etc.
Types: Fashion, subculture, art.
Other: Portraits of idols, artists, etc.
In addition to commercial photography, holds events and exhibitions, and produces artworks.

Official Website
http://www.shiorikawamoto.com/

■ Inquiries for web features
Akihabara Dear Stage
http://moejapan.jp/dearstage/

Moe Japan
http://moejapan.jp/

Maon Kurosaki Official HP
http://www.geneonuniversal.jp/rondorobe/music/maon/

MOGRA
http://club-mogra.jp/

dicokick
http://www.dicokick.jp/

Kana Hanawa / Chaos | hair & make
http://chaos-asakusa.com/

Haruka Yamada
http://yamadaharuka.jp/

Souta Yamaguchi | stylist
http://www.souta-yamaguchi.com/