The Shape of Restraint

In keeping with our mission to support and inspire creativity, we ask the artists we collaborate with to offer insight into their work, a look behind the scenes, and the opportunity for our readers to learn more about the process. For our latest fashion feature, photographer Ryohei Hashimoto answers our questions.
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What was the inspiration behind this shoot?
The inspiration for this shoot came from my interest in the quiet tension and sense of restraint that I often perceive in Japanese women. After returning to Japan from London, I became increasingly aware of these qualities and wanted to explore them further. Set against the austere and anonymous landscapes of suburban Tokyo, the project examines the subtle relationship between the body, clothing, and social expectations, expressing a delicate balance between control, tension, and individuality.

What are some themes that you are frequently drawn to in your work?
I’m often drawn to themes of silence, restraint, and the subtle traces of human presence. I’m interested in the tension that exists between people and their surroundings, and in moments that feel quiet yet emotionally charged. Whether I’m photographing fashion, landscapes, or documentary subjects, I’m usually looking for a sense of stillness, ambiguity, and the stories that remain just beneath the surface.

Is there anything you’re experimenting with or hoping to explore in your future work?
Recently, I’ve become increasingly interested in exploring the space between fashion and documentary photography. I’m drawn to subjects that carry a sense of history, memory, and human presence, even when no people are visible. In future projects, I hope to continue working with landscapes, communities, and environments that allow me to build quiet narratives and explore the relationship between people and place.

How would you describe the style of your work?
I would describe my work as quiet and observational. I’m interested in creating images that feel natural and understated, while carrying an underlying emotional tension. Rather than focusing on dramatic moments, I’m drawn to subtle gestures, atmosphere, and the spaces between events. I often use landscape and environment as a way of shaping the narrative.