Industrial Photography for a US Advanced Materials Manufacturer in Japan
Japan’s highly skilled workforce and advanced manufacturing capabilities make it an attractive location for U.S. firms to source production. As an industrial factory photographer based near Tokyo, I frequently work with U.S. and other international companies operating facilities in Japan.
I recently had the opportunity to photograph two Japanese plants for a U.S. manufacturer working in the advanced materials and semiconductor sector. I’ve always been fascinated by how things work, so I love shoots like these, where I get to peek behind the scenes and see the process up close.
A cutting tool shapes a cylindrical component on a lathe, sending fine particles flying as material is removed. This kind of close-tolerance work is typical in advanced materials or semiconductor-related manufacturing, where precision and surface quality are critical. All photographs by Ben Weller.
Visual needs: From product shots to hero images
The company operates globally and was in the process of overhauling its website and marketing materials. They needed high-quality visuals to match their existing assets—specifically product shots, portraits and hero images, wide aerial images of the plant using my drone, and detailed close-ups of equipment and processes. I drew on my knowledge of Japan and my experience in industrial photography to advise on logistics, recommend an efficient shooting schedule, and plan for necessary location scouting and approvals.
Production planning and creative collaboration
Over the course of several weeks, I coordinated closely with the creative agency to shape the scope of the job, which included two production days in different regions of Japan, plus travel. I built a detailed estimate based on the complexity of the assignment, usage licensing, and realistic turnaround times. The agency and client were pleased with the proposal and decided to add video to the brief. Rather than trying to handle both stills and video myself, I brought in a trusted collaborator from my network, which worked well for the client in terms of both time and cost. While I directed the overall shoot, focusing on photography and logistics, my colleague handled video production.
On-site protocols and final delivery
Due to the nature of the work, we needed to review every image and video clip on-site with facility managers to ensure that no sensitive IP was accidentally captured. Despite this extra layer of approval, we finished on time and under budget. Delivery was quick and efficient, and the client’s feedback was 100% positive. The images and video have since been used across the company’s website, corporate communications, and marketing materials.
Delivering value through experience and local Insight
Projects like this one highlight the value of working with a photographer who not only understands industrial environments but also knows how to navigate the realities of working in Japan. I bring a combination of visual expertise, logistical planning, and cultural fluency that helps international clients get the results they need. Whether you’re updating your marketing assets or documenting operations in Asia, I aim to make the process smooth, cost-effective, and above all, to deliver impactful imagery that strengthens your brand. If you’re looking to hire a photographer to document your projects, capture compelling environmental portraits of your team, or photograph your products and facilities, reach out here.
All images © Ben Weller. All rights reserved.
No part of these photographs may be copied, reproduced, stored, or used in any form—digital or print—without the express prior written permission of the photographer.