TENSION テンション
Photography Masterclass with TATSUO SUZUKI
With guest CHIHIRO KOBAYASHI
MYR 550.00 (Limited to 12 pax)
5,6,7 September 2025
HinBus Depot, George Town, Penang, Malaysia
KLPA and Zontiga are proud to present a special 3-day photography masterclass with renowned Japanese street photographer Tatsuo Suzuki, joined by award-winning photobook designer and editor Chihiro Kobayashi. Held in George Town, Penang, this exclusive workshop coincides with the opening of the KLPA2025 'Critical Eye: Portraits from the Street' finalists exhibition at Hin Bus Depot.
Visual tension is very evident in Tatsuo Suzuki’s often dramatic and provoking photography and we have chosen this signature as the thematic reference to this workshop.
Join us for a rare opportunity to learn directly from one of Japan's most expressive and dynamic contemporary photographers. Through discussions, practical street photography sessions, and portfolio reviews, you'll refine your visual storytelling skills and gain invaluable insights into photobook editing and publishing.
Workshop Format
The masterclass will be conducted in a relaxed and informal setting with interactions amongst all participants and their leads. We encourage photographers to play a participatory and engaging role by sharing and discussing their works in depth and also be open and receptive to constructive criticisms. We wish each photographer will benefit from this event and take away vital skills and experiences which will lead to new opportunities as part of their personal development in photography. Each participant will receive personal feedback from Tatsuo Suzuki and Chihiro Kobayashi throughout the workshop.
What to bring
Participants are required to bring a recent portfolio of works fo about 10 - 15 images, preferably in loose prints (A5 to A4 sizes) or a mock-up photo book for review and discussion. Camera gear.
Who Should Join?
This masterclass is designed for photographers of all levels, especially those passionate about street photography and visual storytelling. It is ideal for:
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Photographers wanting to develop their unique visual voice
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Artists working on or planning to create a photobook
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Individuals eager to engage with the street photography community
Where and When?
Dates: 5 – 7 September 2025
Location: Hin Bus Depot, George Town, Penang
Language of Instruction: Japanese & basic English
(An interpreter will be present to assist throughout the workshop)
Agenda
Day 1 — Friday, 5 September
Morning:
Introductions to Tatsuo Suzuki & Chihiro Kobayashi
Talk: Photography approach, philosophy, VOID Tokyo, zines & books
Set individual shooting tasks & project planning
Afternoon:
Guided street photography session in George Town
Day 2 — Saturday, 6 September
Morning:
Progress sharing and briefing
Continued shooting session
Afternoon:
Midpoint review and feedback at Hin Bus Depot
Day 3 — Sunday, 7 September
Morning:
Final practical shoot
Afternoon:
Editing, feedback, and closing review session
Farewell and project follow-up opportunities
About George Town, Penang
George Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its rich multicultural history, vibrant street life, and colonial-era architecture. The city's dynamic street scenes and diverse community provide the perfect backdrop for this immersive workshop. Participants will have the chance to photograph in one of Southeast Asia's most visually stimulating environments while connecting with fellow artists and the wider KLPA network.
About Tatsuo Suzuki
Born in Tokyo in 1965, Tatsuo Suzuki began photography in 2008 and has since become one of Japan's most celebrated street photographers. Known for his intense, high-energy images, he has received numerous international accolades and has published with Steidl.
Career Highlights:
Winner: Steidl Book Award Japan (2016)
Founder: VOID Tokyo collective
Publications: Friction / Tokyo Street, The Sound of Waves, Raw Power
Exhibitions: Japan, USA, Korea, and more
About Chihiro Kobayashi
An experienced Tokyo-based photobook designer and editor, Chihiro has collaborated on over 25 titles, many with Tatsuo Suzuki. She is the co-founder of Chee Power Books and has had her works shortlisted for the Kassel Dummy Book Award.
Editorial Highlights:
Tokyo Street series Vol.1–6
The Sound of Waves, Raw Power
Books with Kyokin Nakamura, Shinya Ishida, Sakura, and others
Notes
The workshop fee does not cover accommodation or transportation.
Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel and lodging.
Level: For all levels
IN COLLABORATION WITH HINBUS DEPOT, ZONTIGA AND NUI KOPI