The Japanese photobook (shashinshū) is more than a mere collection of prints; it is considered an original object of art

Before this, photobooks were functional. After this, they became political and poetic.

#JapanesePhotobook #PhotographyLovers

Moriyama’s seminal 1972 book, Farewell Photography ( Sashin yo Sayonara ), is the ultimate realization of this era. It features extremely degraded, high-contrast, nearly abstract black-and-white images that questioned the very nature of what a photograph is supposed to be. 🎨 Masterpieces of the Medium

Cons:

Japanese photobooks, or shashinshū , are regarded as a primary vehicle for photographic expression in Japan. Historically, they evolved from a culture of magazines where collaboration between photographers, designers, and printers created a cohesive "original object" rather than just a collection of prints. Key Themes & Eras

• Aperture: A leading photography organization that has published numerous books on Japanese photography and photobooks.
• Moriyama Daido: The official website of Daido Moriyama, one of Japan's most influential photographers.
• Japanese Photobooks: A blog and online community dedicated to promoting and discussing Japanese photobooks.
• Tokyo Camera Club: A Tokyo-based organization that promotes photography and hosts events and exhibitions on Japanese photography.

Tap to browse the collection. 👇

• Akaaka – Art-focused, mid-career photographers.
• Case Publishing – Tokyo-based, contemporary & experimental.
• Taka Ishii Gallery / TISSUE – Gallery-driven limited editions.
• Mack Books – UK-based but many Japanese artists.
• Editions Treville – Classic reissues (e.g., Moriyama).
• Super Labo – Handmade, luxury, small-run books.