Edit Notes:

Ulysses Aoki is a Japanese photographer with a decade-long career in documentary photography, employing traditional methods. His work features thought-provoking compositions, focusing on vivid colors and unique shapes. Dedicated to artistic growth, Aoki continually explores diverse expressive techniques. His creations are driven by personal inspiration rather than catering to audience expectations.

Personal Information

Thypoch: What is your profession? Where do you primarily work?

Ulysses Aoki: I primarily work as a photographer based in Tokyo, while also running a small sustainable development company.

Thypoch: When did you get your first camera, and what sparked your interest in photography?

Ulysses Aoki: I got my first camera quite late. I received an entry-level Canon APS-C camera during university, but I didn't end up using it. It was only about 10 years ago when I got my first film camera that I truly became fascinated with this art form. The ability to create unique compositions without having to paint or doodle is what primarily attracted me to photography.

Thypoch: How would you describe your photography style, and why are you here?

Ulysses Aoki: I mainly identify as a candid photographer, but I capture many things around me, making it hard to describe. I like to leave space for questioning in my compositions, and I often emphasize rich colors and shapes.

Thypoch: What do you think about photography as an art form?

Ulysses Aoki: In my view, there are two extremes in photography. One is the documentary approach, which is non-fictional and leans towards 'democratization' in image creation (as William Eggleston said), while the other adopts a more fictional method that deals with abstract concepts, having little to do with images used as recording resources. Both can stand as art forms in their own right, but they express different types of value.

However, photography, as a singular mode of expression, indeed faces challenges in the art world regarding how to retain or create value for society. As a product, it is so rich, and prints are so easily replicable, while more traditional art forms only have one original piece.

Thypoch: How do you view content creation? Is there a distinction between content and art?

Ulysses Aoki: Yes. But we do live in an era where it is difficult to be seen as an artist without content creation.

Thypoch: When taking photos, do you consider the audience's role? Does it affect your creative process?

Ulysses Aoki: The prospect of audience opinion or the number of viewers does not change my creative process in the slightest. I find this to be an advantage I possess, and it's also why I primarily self-finance now through different working methods.

Thypoch: What will your next challenge be? Or in which area do you want to break through?

Ulysses Aoki: My next challenge will be attempting to expand beyond just candid expressions. This will be challenging because I think I am quite good at image creation in a more traditional sense, but for my growth as an artist, I believe this is necessary.

Thypoch: Do you prefer random shooting or pre-planned themes?

Ulysses Aoki: I wouldn't call it random, but most of the time when I go out to shoot, there isn't a clear plan... However, I do have a highly themed project in progress, so for that project, I do have a planned theme and will go to specific locations to capture the needed images.

Story with Thypoch

Thypoch: What is your overall impression of Thypoch?

Ulysses Aoki: My impression is that Thypoch provides high-quality and highly valuable products. They meet the long-time practical needs of most photographers or creators. They are also very active in the photography community, which is great, as many brands and manufacturers no longer invest time and money to support photographers and the community.

Thypoch: What are your expectations for Thypoch's future development?

Ulysses Aoki: I hope to see different focal lengths and interesting small lenses/color interpretations.

Thypoch: Could you please provide three of your favorite Thy-photos and explain why? (Camera used)
Ulysses Aoki: I took these photos using the Leica SL series camera. I think these three photos complement each other well, showcasing the strong contrast of Tokyo's cold and clear weather. The contrast between these photos seems inverted, but the subjects are clear.

Leica SL2 + Simera 28mm f/1.4

Leica SL2 + Simera 28mm f/1.4

Leica SL2 + Simera 28mm f/1.4

Find Ulysses Aoki on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ulysses_aoki/

Purchase Simera 28mm f/1.4 in Thypoch store:https://www.thypoch.store/products