Hitoshi Murakami is a JET who has started his own photography school in downtown Toronto. How can a person be this brave? Who is this quiet genius? You will surely only find out by reading our interview with Hitoshi.
Q. What made you decide to start your own school?
It just kind of happened… It was one of those things where we started talking about it on a whim and as we continued the conversation we realized that we could actually make something out of it. It all came together when we planned out the curriculum and found that we had something that we really wished was available when we first started out.
Q. You are an administrator at the school, how did you find your teachers? Who are they?
The teachers are actually co-owners who I felt had the ability to impart their knowledge. Stephen Caissie has taught photography workshops in the Beaches and is doing some amazing work with product and portrait photography. Johann Bona is a fashion photographer who trained in Milan and I love his visual signature. You can find out more on our website www.focalpointphotoschool.ca
Q. Are you taking on more students?
Absolutely! But we don’t want the classes to be so full that participants feel lost so we limit the class sizes to only 15 people
Q. Can you talk a little about your curriculum? What is currently offered? Are classes mostly in studio? Do you do field work?
Right now we have a Photography 1 and Photography 2 course that forms the backbone of our curriculum. Rather than focusing on camera functions (that’s what manuals are for) we want people to understand how their vision is translated through the camera to create a final output. Classes take place at 36 Chambers, an artist run studio where I also operate my studio, but every class will have a practicum component where participants can apply what is being taught. This will take place in the neighbourhood as well as in the studio.
Q. How much does it cost to join a class?
Classes range from $75 to $210 but I’m pleased to announce that we will be offering JETAA members a 15% discount. Just let us know when you come to class and we will refund that amount back to you!
Q. What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far about running a school?
Everyone has the ability to create amazing images! I’ve been amazed by some of the work that people have done just by understanding the relationship between the photographer and camera.
Q. Any advice for those out there looking to start their own school?
Every situation is different. Haha! No seriously, just do it if you really feel like you have something that people will benefit from.
