2025 Photobook Workshop “PHOTOBOOK AS OBJECT” – Applications Open!

Transform a photobook from “just a book” into “an object.”

This workshop, which has produced numerous photobooks celebrated on the international photobook scene, is entering its 11th year. Since its first edition in 2014, it has been held in Tokyo, Latvia, and beyond, continuing annually even after overcoming the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2025, the workshop will be conducted in two locations: Tokyo and Kyoto.

The workshop aims to create highly polished photobook dummies by integrating photographs, materials, and text into cohesive works that deepen understanding through tactile engagement. Participants will develop their project ideas, delve deeper into editing, design, and binding processes, and enhance both the content and concept. Ultimately, the goal is to create a unique photobook that reflects your vision. This journey involves not only photography but also meticulous research and diverse expressions applied to the dummy-making process.

The focus is not merely on completing a beautifully crafted dummy. Instead, the emphasis is on gaining new insights into your project and challenging creative boundaries to achieve deeper understanding and growth. The instructors will guide you throughout this process, helping you bring out the best in your work. This workshop offers a valuable opportunity to elevate your project to the next level, pursuing the concept of “more than a book.”

Many past participants have achieved significant milestones, including publishing and exhibiting their work internationally, as well as receiving prestigious awards. We invite you to join this special workshop and take the first step in bringing your project to the world.

In 2025, the workshop will be held in Tokyo and Kyoto. Please select your preferred location.

Workshop Details

Tokyo: Reminders Photography Stronghold

  • Address: 2-38-5 Higashimukojima, Sumida-ku, Tokyo
  • Nearest Station: 8-minute walk from “Hikifune Station” (Tobu Skytree Line) or “Keisei Hikifune Station” (Keisei Line)
  • Dates: May 31 (Sat), June 1 (Sun), 2 (Mon), 5 (Thu), 6 (Fri), 7 (Sat), 2025
    Public presentations are scheduled for June 8 (Sun), the day after the workshop ends.
  • Capacity: 10 participants
    (Selection will be made based on submitted application materials.)

Kyoto: RPS KYOTO PAPEROLES

  • Address: 603 Oimatsu-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto
  • Nearest Bus Stop: 5-minute walk from “Kamishichiken” (City Bus)
  • Dates: June 14 (Sat), 15 (Sun), 16 (Mon), 19 (Thu), 20 (Fri), 21 (Sat), 2025
    Public presentations are scheduled for June 22 (Sun), the day after the workshop ends.
  • Capacity: 5 participants
    (Selection will be made based on submitted application materials.)

Mid-Workshop Period
Between the scheduled workshop days, participants are encouraged to utilize the venue for independent study, sharing ideas, and discussion. Those traveling from afar are welcome to stay during this period and make the most of their creative time.

Schedule

  • Time: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
    Please note that start and end times may vary, with potential early starts or extended sessions. Breaks will be included. Past workshops have shown that schedules may shift based on progress, so please plan accordingly.

Instructors

  • Jan Rosseel
  • Yumi Goto (Curator, Reminders Photography Stronghold)

Participation Fee

  • Regular Fee: 99,000 JPY (tax included)
  • RPS Members: 93,500 JPY (tax included)
    Please ensure financial preparedness before applying. Payment must be made within the specified deadline upon confirmation of participation.

Application Deadline
January 19, 2025 (Sun) 11:59 PM JST
The deadline applies to both Tokyo and Kyoto venues.
Complete your application using the form below. If the form does not display correctly, use the following link: https://forms.gle/Suwwyqyu9HoV7YDa8.

Important Notes

Instructor Profiles
Jan Rosseel
Born in Belgium, Jan Rosseel transitioned from a career as a chef to studying Chinese in the Netherlands, where he began documenting the lives of seasonal laborers in China. He later pursued photojournalism at the Danish School of Media and Journalism and documentary photography at The Royal Academy of Arts in The Hague. His works explore themes ranging from historical events to the recognition of memory.

His photobook Autumn in Belgium, limited to 28 copies, meticulously weaves photographs and research materials into a profound narrative about an event that claimed his father’s life. The book has been lauded for its intimate yet socially resonant storytelling, demonstrating precision in both structure and execution.

Yumi Goto

Based in Tokyo, Yumi Goto is an independent curator working on photography-related production, curation, editing, publishing, research, consulting, education, and talent development. She focuses on themes such as conflict, social issues, human rights violations, and women’s issues.

As the co-founder of Reminders Photography Stronghold and the founder of its Kyoto annex, RPS KYOTO PAPEROLES, she supports photographic projects globally. Highly trusted by visual storytellers, Yumi guides and nurtures projects with social significance and personal expression.









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