Japanese photographer Char Tsuchiya

Char Tsuchiya takes stunning photos. Utilizing both film and digital mediums, Char has made himself known as one of Japan’s top surfing lifestyle photographers. Inspired by Californian surf culture Char jets around the world documenting surf styles in beautiful locations. We caught up with Char during a recent break in shooting schedules and asked him a few quick questions about his life and work.

Where did you grow up and what kind of place was it like?

I was growing up in Yoshino, Nara which is real beautiful Japanese countryside. It’s a very natural area with rivers and lakes but no ocean. I was always fishing, swimming, climbing mountains and playing amongst the nature.

Where are you living now?

Since the big earthquake I am now living in the very south of Japan, in Amami Island.

How did you get into surfing?

A high school friend inspired me to start surfing. After graduation, I moved to California and got into surfing more and more.

How did that progress into taking photos?

I studied fine art photography at the Academy of Art College in San Francisco. Inspired by hippy culture and being a surfer it was a natural progression to surf photography.

How would you describe your photographic style?

I like to use natural light as much as possible in my work.

You’ve done a good stint of traveling with your work, what are some of the benefits of being a roaming surf photographer?

Not only meeting great waves, but also people, embracing different cultures and eating great food.

Digital or film, why?

It doesn’t really matter which you chose these days, both have good and bad points. But I like film photography. I think film is more emotional.

What inspires your photography?

Psychedelic hippie culture and Californian surf culture.

Favorite place to visit and why?

I’d have to say Indonesia, for the people and the food (and of course the waves!)

How do you see the next few years of surfing evolving?

Contest surfing will just get more technical, and high flying airs!

What about the future of surf media for photographers?

I think photographers should have their own online media or connect with the online realm somehow. The good thing about online is that it is timely; information and photographs can reach the reader immediately. I don’t really like cheap books, but there’s always place for high quality photo books.

What is next for Char?

Not sure…but I want to keep taking photos and traveling. Then I want to publish photo essays.

5 Quick Questions

Favorite Food?

Fish/Sushi

Favorite Surf break to shoot at?

Pipeline

Favorite Band/Musician?

Jimi Hendrix

Favorite photo subject(s) to shoot other than surf?

New landscapes

Unforgettable trip?

Morocco

More Info

Website  www.charfilm.com

Facebook www.facebook.com/charfilm