A Glimpse into Hirota Naotaka's 76 Years of Railway Photography

On May 14, 2026, Canon Marketing Japan will unveil the latest addition to its esteemed collection, the PHOTOGRAPHERS’ ETERNAL COLLECTION Volume 21, featuring the remarkable works of renowned photographer Hirota Naotaka. This collection, titled “鉄道写真” (Railway Photography), marks a significant milestone in his extensive career spanning an impressive 76 years.

Hirota first picked up a camera in his third year of middle school to capture the beauty of trains. From that exhilarating moment, a lasting passion for railway photography was born. Hirota has meticulously honed his craft, evolving train photography into an art form. His compositions possess a boldness and refinement that encapsulate the magnificence and strength of trains, influencing countless photographers.

The upcoming photo collection includes 70 carefully selected images, showcasing a blend of Hirota’s iconic works and innovative perspectives on trains as an artistic subject. Now in his nineties, Hirota continues to work at the forefront of photography, presenting a compendium that represents where he stands artistically today while also looking towards the future.

Printed using the DreamLabo 5000, Canon's state-of-the-art professional printer, the book promises superb color reproduction and clarity. This meticulous process ensures that every detail of Hirota’s work is faithfully captured, allowing the audience to appreciate it in all its glory.

Product Overview

- Collection Name: PHOTOGRAPHERS’ ETERNAL COLLECTION Vol.21 Hirota Naotaka - Railway Photography
- Format: 240mm square, 80 pages, hardcover, presented in a decorative box
- Bonus: Includes an original print with Hirota's autograph, sized at 240mm square
- Price: ¥29,150 (including tax and shipping) - limited to 500 copies through pre-order
- Release Date: May 14, 2026
- Sales Channel: Canon Online Shop
- Product URL: Canon Photo Collection

Online Talk Event

In celebration of the collection’s release, an online talk featuring Hirota and the designer, Mimura Kan, will be streamed on the same day. Viewers can expect interesting anecdotes related to the collection and discussions about the journey of photography.

- Event Date: May 14, 2026
- Viewing URL: Will be added to the YouTube Playlist

Exhibition at Gallery S

Additionally, an exhibition titled “鉄道写真” (Railway Photography) featuring Hirota's works will be held at Canon's Gallery S from May 14 to June 22, 2026. The gallery will also host a talk event where a limited number of pieces will be available for purchase.

- Exhibition Period: May 14 - June 22, 2026
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Closed Days: Sundays and holidays
- Location: Canon Gallery S, 1F Canon S Tower, 2-16-6 Konan, Minato-ku, Tokyo
- Entry Fee: Free
- Exhibition Details URL: Photography Exhibition

Artist's Message

Reflecting on his journey, Hirota shares, “In my third year of middle school, I shot my first beloved train. The thrill and joy I felt when I first pressed the shutter, combined with my father’s praise for my work, fueled my passion for railway photography. It has been 76 years since then, and I have sought to capture railway photography as an art. I have simply pursued my passion for what I love. I will continue to photograph trains for as long as I live.”

About Hirota Naotaka

Born in 1935 in Tokyo, Hirota has held a fascination for trains since childhood. After graduating from Chuo University with a degree in economics, he transitioned from a corporate employee to a freelance photographer. His first exhibition, “蒸気機関車たち” (Steam Locomotives), held in 1968, garnered significant acclaim, solidifying his position as a leading figure in railway photography. As the first president of the Japan Railway Photography Association, he remains a pivotal figure in the field. Hirota, affectionately known as the “God of Railway Photography”, has published over 250 works and received several awards, including the prestigious Hidam Yasuzō Prize in 2023.

About the PHOTOGRAPHERS’ ETERNAL COLLECTION

The PHOTOGRAPHERS’ ETERNAL COLLECTION series is designed to curate and present works by renowned photographers, allowing viewers to relive unforgettable moments and breathtaking visuals captured through their lenses. This limited-edition series is available through direct order, ensuring high-quality production and personalization.