Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Takayuki Gonno. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Takayuki, thanks for joining us today. Let’s start big picture – what are some of biggest trends you are seeing in your industry?

I’m a photographer, especially street photography lover. Nowadays there is a trend (I can say a problem). It’s AI image. Last few years, AI generator(mid journey etc) is rapidly evolving and getting better and better. It’s enough to pretend as real photography. As you may already know, the media said AI generated photo won an award in one of the biggest photography competition. That’s a real surprise for photographers. I understand new technology will change traditional arts. It’s a new tool. Of course it has a lot of potential. I also have tried it to know about that. But it’s a totally different category I think. I’m concerned it might lead newbie photographers (like me) in the wrong direction. Just to clarify, AI is an amazing technology. We can get any great images without going out. We could learn compositions, tones, exemplary images, and abundant creativity etc. So what I’m trying to say is, we should use it to grow ourselves “as photographers “.If it moves in a favorable direction, I will be looking forward to the new Era.

Takayuki, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m a freelance photographer running small business . It’s been 7 years since I moved to LA from Japan. Portrait, picture for website, collaborating with Japanese company etc. Especially I love street photography. Nowadays I’m focusing on it to be a street photography artist. I’m still a newbie and learning everyday. And I’m sharing my work through social media.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

As a street photographer, it’s so hard to make a living. But there are many ways. Through SNS , selling prints, publishing books, collaborating companies etc. The one thing that all of them have in common is to be influential. It’s not enough just taking great photos. First of all, getting more people interested in my work is the start point. I can’t say which one is the best way, but I’m also groping for an efficient and effective way. Photography is a long journey. Just baby steps is OK. Not giving up is the most important.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

To beginners or the people just started photography, I want to say that you don’t need to buy the newest or pricey cameras if you want to be an artist photographer. My favorite photographer is Saul Leiter. He passed away in 2013 but his work is still impacting on many photographers all over the world. Cameras are improving and coming new products frequently. Having pricy and flagship cameras does not mean you are a great photographer. You don’t have enough budget then you can use a mobile phone. It’s a great tool to carry everyday and everywhere. Through your learning process, you should find the camera matching you perfectly. In my case, my first camera? was GoPro 7. And then Sony a7iii. Now my main camera is Sony a7RV. I also upgraded lenses. G master series are my favorites. But I still use mobile phone camera. Also Sony ZV-1,Ricoh GRiii (compact camera). I choose cameras to capture subjects in the situations “What, When, Where, How”. According to my or client’s demand, my set up will change. You should decide what you really need in your situation. And just enjoy taking pictures and capturing your memories with your loved ones. I’m sure that you can have enjoyable things in your life.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takayuki_gonno
• Vero: https://vero.co/takayuki_gonno

Image Credits
Takayuki Gonno