Portrait of a Salaryman, An Urban Photo Session in Shinjuku
This photo session had a clear objective: to create the portrait of a businessman in motion, caught in the fast-paced rhythm of Tokyo, while maintaining an elegant and controlled image. Inspired by the figure of the Japanese salaryman, always on the move between meetings and trains, Shinjuku quickly emerged as the obvious setting. As an emblematic district of modern Tokyo, with its skyscrapers, constant flow of pedestrians, and raw urban energy, it offered the perfect backdrop for a portrait shot entirely outdoors using our mobile photo studio.
As with every project, the work began well before the day of the shoot. Several days in advance, a location scouting session was carried out to identify the most suitable spot and determine the optimal time of day based on the position of the sun. Natural light plays a key role in this type of portrait, and anticipating its direction ensures a consistent and flattering result. Following this scouting phase, a storyboard was proposed to the client, outlining the visual intentions, framing, and overall atmosphere. It was then validated ahead of the session.
From a technical standpoint, the setup was deliberately simple and efficient. The lighting relied on a single light source inspired by Rembrandt lighting, allowing the face to be sculpted while preserving a natural look. The camera was positioned at a slight low angle, adding dynamism to the image and incorporating the tops of the surrounding buildings in the background, reinforcing the feeling of height and movement.
Accessories also played an important role in the staging. A simple metal hanger, discreetly slipped inside the lining of the tie, helped keep it perfectly straight and suggested a sense of speed, as if the wind were accompanying the subject’s stride. This type of subtle detail, almost invisible to the naked eye, greatly enhances the final reading of the image.
The main challenge of this shoot was working in a public space without an official filming permit. In Tokyo, administrative procedures are complex and restrictive. We therefore opted for a light and discreet approach. No tripod was used, neither for the camera nor for the lighting, in order to minimize our footprint and avoid disrupting pedestrian traffic.
A few minutes after the shoot began, the caretaker of a nearby park approached us. Surveillance cameras are everywhere in Tokyo, and our presence had not gone unnoticed. After explaining our approach, he was understanding and allowed us to continue. It was a relief, as the arrival of a police officer would have ended the session immediately.
In the end, there was more tension than trouble. The shoot was completed in a relaxed atmosphere, and the results fully met expectations. The participants will keep a lasting and positive memory of this intense yet enjoyable moment. This is exactly the kind of experience I aim to offer: strong portraits created in real-world conditions, and unforgettable memories captured through photography.
The shoot was completed in a relaxed atmosphere, and the results fully met expectations. The participants will keep a lasting and positive memory of this intense yet enjoyable moment. This is exactly the kind of experience Shonan Focus aim to offer: strong portraits created in real-world conditions, and unforgettable memories captured through photography.
To learn more about our work or to organize your own session, visit the Portrait Photography section of the website.