When photographing the Art of Sushi book launch in New York City I wanted to captured the celebration of the craft, its tradition, and connection throughout the sushi community. The event brought together chefs, food enthusiasts, and friends of the author for an intimate night that combined the elegance of Japanese cuisine with the excitement of the author’s first book.
Guests ate sushi, watched as chefs demonstrated their mastery, rolling and plating pieces with precision. I focused on capturing the small but meaningful details — the textures of fresh ingredients, and the guests’ expressions as they interacted with the book, the vendors, and one another . Between the close-up shots of the food and the candid reactions in the crowd, the event offered a perfect big moments and small ones alike.
As the evening went on, guests enjoyed tasting the sushi, sharing conversations, and flipping through their copies of The Art of Sushi. I took a mix of candid and posed photos, including small group portraits with the author and chefs. The low evening light and minimalist setup made the images feel warm, authentic, and refined — the kind of timeless look I aim for in every event gallery.
If you’re planning a New York City corporate or book launch event, I offer storytelling photography that captures both the experience and the emotion behind it. Contact Jonathan Heisler for coverage that’s personal, polished, and perfectly attuned to your brand or occasion.