In today’s rapidly evolving world of imaging and photography, staying ahead of emerging trends and technologies is essential for both professionals and creators. The latest issue of this magazine offers a comprehensive and insightful look into the photography and visual industry in 2025, examining it from multiple angles—from the seasoned industry expert to the next generation of talent.
One of the highlights of this issue is the special supplement, CM & Imaging Cameraman & Lighting Technician File 2025. This invaluable resource features detailed profiles of 185 professionals working in the fields of TV commercials (CM) and music videos (MV). It includes personal background, work histories, and notable projects, serving as a vital reference for anyone involved in the production side of visual media—perfect for networking, collaboration, and inspiration.
The cover feature, The Current Progress of AI in Photography, delves into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the photographic landscape. It centers around “PHANTOM,” a generative AI visual exhibition curated by Hakuhodo Product’s REMBRANDT team, created in collaboration with professional retouchers. Through an in-depth exploration of the exhibited works, the feature also addresses critical issues such as the relationship between AI and copyright (with legal commentary by attorney Moe Oide), and the current state of AI in the digital marketing industry (analyzed by Daisuke Kudo, executive at AI HYVE). This feature presents a thoughtful and timely discussion on the real-world applications and challenges of AI in creative practices.
Another core section of the magazine is Challenges of Photography Students 2025, a special on-page exhibition that showcases student works from Japan’s top art and design schools, including Nihon University, Tokyo Polytechnic University, Nagaoka Institute of Design, Nippon Photography Institute, and Tohoku University of Art & Design. Through graduation exhibitions and extracurricular showcases, this section offers a glimpse into how young photographers are expressing themselves today—accompanied by commentary from professors and instructors, painting a vibrant picture of the future of photography.
This issue also presents a series of curated features from established artists. Tokyo Moonscapes by Akihiko Nagumo offers a poetic visual narrative of urban life, while Ryo Ohwada’s FLORA / ECHO explores abstract and organic imagery. In The World of Film: Four Perspectives, photographers Ayaka Masuda, Fumihiko Suzuki, Kaori Someya, and Shinichi Matsumoto each share their unique take on analog photography, offering both technical insight and emotional resonance.
The magazine introduces a new column by acclaimed commercial portrait photographer Kazuki Nagayama. In the first installment of Kazuki Nagayama’s Approach to Distinctive Commercial Portraiture, titled Portrait is Black and White, he opens up about his creative process on set—how he engages with subjects, what methods he uses to bring out authenticity, and the philosophy behind his signature style.
Ongoing popular features continue as well:
GLAY Creative Collection 2024, now in its ninth installment, titled BRIGHTEN UP
Photographer Survival Strategies Vol. 25, featuring a thoughtful dialogue between Ayano Sudo and Akiomi Kuroda on their journey into photography
Create My Book, Vol. 7, where Miku Kanemura shares her experience crafting a personal portfolio focused on film photography
From industry insights and AI innovation to education, creative expression, and practical technique, this issue is a rich and multidimensional look at contemporary photography and visual production. Whether you are a professional photographer, visual artist, educator, or simply passionate about the visual arts, you’ll find inspiration, knowledge, and connection in these pages.
