About
Irwin Wong is an Australian photographer and director based in Tokyo, Japan. Originally from Melbourne, he has lived in Japan for over two decades, creating editorial and commercial work that explores the people, places, and craftsmanship that define contemporary Japan.
Working fluently in both English and Japanese, Irwin specializes in portraiture, travel, industrial, and automotive photography, combining documentary authenticity with a refined commercial aesthetic. His assignments have taken him across Japan and around the world for publications including The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, Forbes, The Hollywood Reporter, The Sunday Times, Travel + Leisure, and Car Design News.
His commercial clients include Apple, Amazon, Christian Dior, Ferrari, Mazda, Mitsubishi Motors, OMEGA, SK-II, and Boss Coffee, among others. He also works closely with tourism organizations and destination marketing agencies to create visual campaigns that showcase Japan's regional culture, craftsmanship, and landscapes to international audiences.
Irwin is the author and photographer of Handmade in Japan (2019) and The Obsessed: Otaku, Tribes and Subcultures of Japan (2022), both published by Gestalten. His latest book continues his exploration of Japan beyond its major cities, documenting the traditions, creativity, and resilience of communities across the country.
Whether photographing artisans preserving centuries-old techniques, executives shaping global industries, or remote landscapes rarely seen by visitors, Irwin's work is driven by curiosity, human connection, and a deep appreciation for stories that reveal the character of a place through the people who inhabit it.
Find him on Wonderful Machine.