tokyo street portrait photography workshop

“A portrait is not made in the camera but on either side of it.”

— Edward Steichen

create editorial street portraits with a dedicated model

I’m a firm believer in the idea that it is more important to click with people than to click the shutter when it comes to photographing people. Portrait photography has a uniquely human element that goes far beyond camera settings or lighting. Building trust, creating genuine moments, and learning how to direct someone naturally are what transform a photograph from a beautiful image into a compelling portrait.

This workshop focuses on creating editorial street portraits with a dedicated model in some of Tokyo's most visually inspiring locations. Working together, we'll explore posing, communication, composition, lighting, and creative direction while producing environmental portraits similar to the style featured throughout my portfolio. Whether you prefer natural light, off-camera flash, or a more cinematic approach, every session is tailored to your experience level and creative goals.

A young woman with long hair and a choker necklace looks into the camera, illuminated by red lighting, with a young man with glasses standing behind her in the background, inside a dimly lit room with framed pictures on the wall.

private 1-on-1

A fully personalised photography workshop designed around your experience level, interests, and creative goals. Work alongside a dedicated model while exploring Tokyo's streets, learning how to direct subjects, use available light or flash, and create editorial portraits in my signature style. Every session is adapted to you, allowing us to move at your own pace and focus on the techniques that will make the biggest difference to your photography.

Max Size: 1 person​

Cost: ¥30,000 / per hour which also includes the model fee (minimum 2 hours)

Locations: Shibuya and Shinjuku primarily but other areas of Tokyo as well

Language: English, Japanese (intermediate)

Bring: Any camera you're comfortable using. Smartphones with manual controls are welcome, although a mirrorless or DSLR camera is recommended.

japanese girl on a tokyo rooftop during the day being photographed on a photography workshop led by Deniz Demir

small group workshop

Perfect for friends or photographers travelling together. You'll work with the same dedicated model while learning posing, communication, lighting, composition, and creative direction in a relaxed, collaborative environment. The workshop follows the same editorial approach as the private experience while giving everyone plenty of opportunities to shoot and receive individual feedback.

Max Size: 6 people

Cost: ¥20,000 / per hour per person including model (minimum 2 hours and 2 people)

Locations: Shibuya and Shinjuku primarily but other areas of Tokyo as well​

Language: English, Japanese (intermediate)​

Bring: Any camera you're comfortable using. Smartphones with manual controls are welcome, although a mirrorless or DSLR camera is recommended.

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