Are you a photographer living in Japan, stationed with the military, or planning a trip to Tokyo in 2025?
If you're looking to level up your portrait photography and experience the thrill of shooting in a professional studio environment, then this is for you.
On Saturday, May 31, 2025, I’m hosting a LIVE Studio Photography Workshop in Tokyo, Japan — and I’d love for you to be part of it.
Why This Workshop Is Different
Whether you're living in Japan long-term or just visiting, this is a rare chance to learn studio photography in Tokyo from someone who's spent decades photographing some of the most iconic names in the world — including Oprah Winfrey, Angelina Jolie, Samuel L. Jackson, Zendaya, Aretha Franklin, and Michael Jordan.
This isn’t just about gear and technical settings.
This is about creating powerful portraits — the kind that tell a story, capture real emotion, and connect with people on a deeper level.
Zendaya, photographed by Matthew Jordan Smith
What You'll Learn
This one-day, hands-on workshop is designed to transform the way you work in the studio. Here's a glimpse of what we’ll cover:
✅ How to shape and control studio lighting like a pro
✅ The secrets behind creating authentic connection with your subject
✅ The art of working without stiff poses — and guiding people with confidence
✅ Lighting setups using strobes, continuous lights, and working with multiple modifiers
✅ How to shoot in the studio even if you’re just starting to explore film photography — without relying on the back of your camera
If you're learning how to shoot film in Japan, this workshop will help you understand how to trust your lighting and exposure before you even press the shutter.
Classic Nikon film camera
Who Is This For?
📍Photographers stationed on U.S. military bases in Japan (Yokota, Misawa, Camp Zama, etc.)
✈️ Travelers coming to Japan and wanting to learn while they explore
📷 Expat creatives living in Tokyo, Osaka, or across Japan
🎓 Aspiring and professional photographers looking to deepen their studio skills
Whether you shoot digital or film, this workshop will sharpen your eye and elevate your approach to portrait photography.
Yuki Matsumura, photographed by Matthew Jordan Smith
Why Tokyo?
Tokyo is one of the most visually inspiring cities in the world — but many photographers miss out on the magic of studio work while living or traveling here.
With just 10 spots available, this intimate workshop is designed to give you personal guidance, direct feedback, and the tools you need to bring out your best work.
📅 Details
Workshop Title: Live Studio Photography Workshop with Matthew Jordan Smith
Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Location: Tokyo, Japan (Studio address provided after registration)
Limited to: 10 participants only
Language: English
How to Register
Spots are extremely limited to keep the experience personal and hands-on.
Click here to reserve your seat now:
If you’re in Japan and passionate about photography, this is your chance to learn in person, in an intimate setting, with a global artist.
Photographer, Matthew Jordan Smith at work in studio.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a creative living in Japan, serving on a military base, or planning the photography adventure of a lifetime, I invite you to join me in Tokyo for a day of inspiration, growth, and connection through the lens.
Let’s create something unforgettable — together.
About Matthew Jordan Smith
Matthew Jordan Smith is an acclaimed American celebrity, beauty, and portrait photographer with over three decades of experience capturing some of the world’s most iconic faces — from Oprah Winfrey and Aretha Franklin to Angelina Jolie, Samuel L. Jackson, and Zendaya.
A sought-after speaker and photography educator, Matthew has taught workshops and delivered keynotes across the globe, including in the U.S., Japan, China, and Europe. He is a Nikon Ambassador, a frequent guest lecturer at major photo events, and a mentor to photographers seeking to refine their craft and grow their careers.
Whether behind the lens or in front of an audience, Matthew’s passion is helping others unlock their creative potential through connection, storytelling, and the art of light.
Photographer, Matthew Jordan Smith