Interview with Kaneda Hidehiro, owner of Atelier Kosuzu
We spoke with Kaneda Hidehiro, owner of Atelier Kosuzu, about what inspired him to start the atelier and his plans for the future.
Photo courtesy of Atelier Kosuzu
Could you tell us about your career?
Kaneda (surname only)
I’ve been a photographer for about seven years.
Actually, I started my working life in the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. Reading was one of my ways to unwind back then, and a photobook I happened to pick up at a bookstore sparked my interest in photography.
At 23, I changed jobs to a company specializing in wedding photography and began pursuing photography professionally. After that, while working at a studio, I photographed families, children, coming-of-age ceremonies, portraits, and promotional photos.
I continue to take photographs today, cherishing the experience I’ve gained through meeting many families and couples.
What inspired you to start your own atelier?
Kaneda
I’d always wanted to have a place where I could take photographs myself.
But what I really wanted to create wasn’t just a place to take pictures. I wanted a place where people could drop by casually even after their photo session, and where I could watch their children grow and their families’ journeys unfold.
What meaning did you put into the name “Atelier Kosuzu”?
Kaneda
The word “studio” has a somewhat businesslike feel. I chose “atelier” because I wanted to create a gathering place for people, rather than a place that constantly changes its backdrops and outfits to offer something new.
I also chose the name “Kosuzu” to express my wish to gently weave connections between people.
Like the sound of a bell heard unexpectedly in a quiet place, I hope it will quietly touch people’s hearts when they listen closely, and help visitors naturally take a deep breath. That is the wish behind the name.
The language of the lily of the valley, which inspired the name, is “happiness will return.”
I hope to create an atelier that people will remember at each milestone in life, and that will remain by their side for years as their family’s story unfolds.
What do you pay particular attention to when taking photographs?
Kaneda
I make sure the session doesn’t feel stiff, like “Okay, I’m taking the picture now.”
For example, when taking photos at the atelier, I consider the session to have begun the moment someone walks into the room. As I enjoy chatting with visitors, I naturally capture the expressions and atmosphere I see that day.
I don’t make people pose unnaturally. However, I carefully explain important details for milestone photos, such as how to stand so that a kimono or dress looks beautiful.
I also put a lot of effort into filming, not just photography, because I want to preserve memories unique to that day, such as a mother’s voice or a child’s gestures.
I want to capture not only expressions, but also what someone was wearing at the time and how big they were.
What do you value at Atelier Kosuzu?
Kaneda
What I value is not pushing myself, and not making others push themselves. I want to tailor each session to the person’s pace, taking their physical condition and feelings into account.
I also want to create photographs that don’t follow trends and won’t lose their appeal when people look back at them 10 or 20 years from now.
People often use the phrase “being yourself,” but I feel it’s difficult to truly express someone’s individuality when you’ve just met them.
That’s why I want to deliver a photograph that captures “what I saw that day,” so that memories naturally come back when people look at it later.
What is your vision for the future?
Kaneda
I value reaching the people who need what I offer.
I also require appointments because I want to make time to give each person my full attention.
I hope to create a place people will love for years to come, where someday they can casually drop by and say, “I came for a cup of tea.”
From the Writer
I first learned about Atelier Kosuzu through a photograph posted on Instagram. Drawn to the beautiful light, I visited on its opening day.
A gentle atmosphere that reflects Kaneda’s personality fills the atelier. Why not visit sometime as a place to capture a milestone in your life?
Atelier Kosuzu Information
| Name | Atelier Kosuzu |
|---|---|
| Address | 2-7-18 Ekimae, Soja City, Okayama Prefecture, Koun Building, 2nd Floor |
| Contact | Contact them via Instagram DM |
| Parking | None |
| Hours | By appointment only |
| Closed | Irregular holidays |
| Payment methods |
|
| Website | Atelier Kosuzu |
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