Tokyo Energy in London

Himari Tsukishiro is a force of nature. Known for traversing the worlds of Alt-Idol and heavy music, her presence is a mix of intense vocal power and distinct visual style.

When documenting Japanese artists in London, the goal is to bridge the gap between their Tokyo origins and the grit of the UK capital. This wasn't just a concert shoot; it was a documentation of the Idol phenomenon crossing borders.

For this session, I focused on:

• The Persona: Confidence, emotion and feeling accessible

• The Aesthetic: Utilising London's gothic backdrop to collide with her distinct styling.

• The Connection: Idol culture is built on the connection with the audience (the Cheki culture). My images aim to replicate that intimacy, giving fans a high-definition connection to the artist.

Why This Matters: Visuals for the Global Stage

For touring artists from Japan (J-Pop, Idol, Metal), visual consistency is everything.

When you tour the UK or Europe, you need a photographer who understands the Idol aesthetic—the specific way lighting, angles, and "fan service" (in the respectful, photographic sense) interact. You need images that feed your social media presence and connect with your international fanbase immediately.

My approach respects the culture. I understand the difference between Western rock photography and Japanese Idol photography. It's about capturing the "Kira Kira" (sparkle) and the darkness in equal measure.

Technical Details

• Lighting: Natural light only

• Camera: Two Sony a7iv with Tamron 70-180 f2.8 and Sony 35mm f1.8

• Vibe: Alt-Idol / Gothic / Cinematic.

• Shoot duration: 45 minutes