Keiichi Nitta: Snap Shot | Hypebeast

Taking part in various exhibitions last year along with the recent release of his first book entitled Bowery Boys, Keiichi Nitta has quickly risen to become a house hold name in the world of photography. A one-time assistant to Terry Richardson, the Tokyo-native has seen a wealth of success within commercial ventures alongside the likes of Vogue, NYLON Japan, Hysteric Glamour, Vice and American Apparel with personal projects via gallery showings. We caught up with Keiichi last month, for a quick Q&A. Check it out!

Q&A with Keiichi Nitta

Whats up Keiichi? Tell me something about yourself ?

I’m Keiichi, nice to meet you. I am from Tokyo, lived in NYC for 10 years, and now am back in Tokyo doing my own work.

We’ve quickly become fans of your work. How did your love for photography begin? Was it always your first passion?

Actually I went to Fashion Design School in Tokyo and then realized that I liked my photography classes and everything that had to do with photo, much better than fashion design. Once I started shooting I couldn’t stop.

Do you still follow fashion? Any particular favorite style/brands?

I love and appreciate fashion, but as for my personal style, I don’t get really crazy. My favorite brands are Marc Jacobs, Undercover, and I love vintage Metal, Rock, and Punk tees.

Did your first job out of school involved fashion? How did you get your start alongside Terry Richardson?

When I first got out of school I was working as a stylist. I moved to NYC and really wanted to work for Terry. I called him once a week for 2 years and then finally I got to work as his assistant.

How was it like working with TR?

Quite an experience. A great experience. Terry’s a great guy, he gave me a great opportunity and we had a lot of fun times and fun photo shoots together.

Any interesting advice from Terry?

Have fun in life, Safety First, and Thursday is Garbage Day.

What type of photography catches your eye, as a fan?

It really depends on the photo, photographer, etc. I like so many different types of photography ranging from fashion to nature.