Masayuki Oki Releases Cat Photo Book Neko

Photographer Masayuki Oki has released his first internationally available photo book, 'Neko: Cats of Japan.' The collection, published by Smith Street Books, features cats photographed in various locations across Japan, including city streets, temples, and dedicated cat islands. The book is curated by Masayuki Oki, one of Japan's most popular cat photographers with over 500,000 Instagram followers. He began his journey in 2013 when he met a cat named Busanyan-senpai in a park on New Year's Eve. The positive response to his Instagram post of that cat led him to share cat pictures daily. In 2015, at age 37, Oki quit his job to become a full-time cat photographer. He has since published 20 photo books in Japan, with Neko marking his first publication to reach foreign shores.

The Photographer's Approach

Oki travels extensively around the country to photograph cats being playful, cheeky and cute. He says his focus extends beyond cuteness. "Of course, cats are wonderful and adorable to photograph, but I like to focus on their inner world, the emotions we imagine from their expressions and behaviour, as well as the complex relationships between them, which feel almost human," Oki explained. These are the moments he tries to capture. His process involves patience. On trips to Cat Island, he spends a few days waiting for the cats to get used to his presence before getting his camera out. This time also helps him learn their likely behaviors to get the perfect image. He admits he often misses the shot, but he is mainly just happy to witness moments he has never encountered before.

Cats in the Japanese Setting

The book portrays cats within distinctly Japanese environments. Images show cats reclining at temples, making their way across famous crossings, roaming the streets looking for fish, and making an empire on the country's dedicated cat islands. According to the source, the cats that inhabit Japan are some of the cutest in the world. The collection, titled Neko, gathers together this beautiful country and many different types of cats in their different locations, blending travel photography with feline portraiture. The source notes that street cats in Tokyo and other Japanese cities are not necessarily uncared for strays. Far from it, many are looked after, fed and even taken to the vet by a collective of individuals. Tokyo's cat population has declined in recent years thanks to Japan's TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) program, prompting Oki's regular visits to Cat Island for photography.

A Career Built on Felines

Oki's work is frequently exhibited throughout Japan. He has built a career on photographing cats. "Cats are fascinating creatures that I never tire of, and I consider myself lucky to be able to do this job," he said. He hopes the book puts a smile on readers' faces. The book 'Neko: Cats of Japan' is now available for purchase with the ISBN 9781923239760. Published by Smith Street Books, it is a great price and makes a gift for any cat lover.