Meet Yosh Hase | Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yosh Hase and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yosh, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Honestly, I’m still on that journey. I currently work full-time at a bank, but my passion lies in photography, and I’m working hard to transition into a professional creative career as soon as possible.

My love for photography began back in high school, developing black-and-white prints in a tiny darkroom. It was just a hobby back then — something I truly enjoyed but didn’t consider pursuing academically. Instead of studying art or photography, I followed a more traditional path. Still, photography remained a quiet but constant presence in my life — from casual snapshots to moments of everyday beauty.

About six years ago, I joined a local photo walk group just for fun and social networking. That simple activity ended up changing everything. The community was incredibly generous with tips and feedback, and the more I learned, the deeper my curiosity grew. Then came the pandemic. With two years of working from home, I suddenly had the time and space to dive into learning Photoshop and Lightroom — and that’s when my real photographic journey began.

I explored many genres and, for a while, struggled to find my voice. Eventually, I discovered that storytelling through images resonated with me more than anything else. While I admire landscape and drone photography (even though I’m admittedly not great at either 😄), it’s the human stories, the quiet moments, and the hidden narratives that captivate me.

Now, I regularly submit my work to international photography competitions. My storytelling and photojournalistic pieces are often selected as finalists or even winners — affirming that I’m on the right path.

I’ve always loved traveling, and photography gives me a powerful reason to explore more deeply. There’s so much of the world that goes unseen — so many stories waiting to be told. My goal is to use my camera to share those unseen corners of the world with people everywhere.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Although I’m not yet a full-time professional photographer — I currently work in banking — photography has become an inseparable part of my life. It’s more than a creative outlet; it’s the way I connect with people, explore the world, and tell stories that often go unseen.

What sets my work apart is a strong focus on storytelling and emotional connection. I’m drawn to moments that speak quietly but powerfully — the kinds of scenes that make people pause and feel something, even if they don’t know exactly why. I’m less interested in the perfectly composed postcard shot and more in the imperfect, human, raw details that reveal a deeper truth.

I’m especially proud that my storytelling-focused photographs have been selected as finalists or winners in international photography competitions. These recognitions are incredibly meaningful — not just for the accolades, but because they affirm that my perspective and voice matter.

The journey hasn’t been easy, mostly because I’m balancing a demanding full-time job while pursuing photography in every spare moment. There have been times when I felt stuck or unsure of my direction — especially when comparing myself to others who had formal training or more time to dedicate to their craft. But I’ve learned that consistency and curiosity are more powerful than perfect circumstances. I’ve also come to believe that it’s okay to grow slowly, as long as I’m moving forward with intention.

What I want people to know about me — and my work — is that it comes from a place of deep observation and care. I want my photos to serve as a bridge: between cultures, between people, between what’s visible and what’s often overlooked. Through my images, I hope to invite viewers to slow down, notice more, and connect with the world — and each other — in more meaningful ways.

My brand, if I could define it in one phrase, would be: “Honest stories from overlooked places.” That’s the path I’m walking, and I’m excited to keep building it step by step.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Not sure if everyone knows this, but I’m currently based in Singapore — Singapore might be small, but it’s packed with culture, food, and experiences that blend the modern with the traditional in such a unique way.

~A Week in Singapore — Your Ultimate Local Experience~

First stop: Marina Bay Sands — a Singapore icon.
We’ll definitely spend a full day here. From the breathtaking infinity pool and SkyPark to the stunning light and water show at night, there’s always something happening. Marina Bay Sands has become a symbol of modern Singapore and really transformed the city’s skyline in the best way.

For food lovers, Singapore is paradise.
We’ll eat our way through hawker centers — casual, open-air food courts that are at the heart of local culture. Singapore’s hawker culture is now officially recognized as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and for good reason. You can enjoy Michelin Bib Gourmand dishes here for just a few dollars. Seriously, some of the best food in the city is served on plastic trays at shared tables!

Want to check off three countries in one trip?
I can take you on a quick getaway to Malaysia (Johor Bahru) and Indonesia (Batam). Both are just a short journey away and perfect for day trips or a quick overnight stay. it’s like getting a mini vacation within your vacation!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Singapore Photography Community : I just want to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks to all of them for the time, effort, and generosity they’ve shared during our photo walks. It’s been truly inspiring to learn from each of them—whether it’s a tip on composition, a new technique, or simply the joy of seeing the world through their lenses.
Sapeurs: Ladies and Gentlemen of the Congo (Photobook by Tariq Zaidi) : This photobook captures a world where elegance, self-expression, and defiance against adversity fuse into one of the most visually captivating subcultures in the world: Through a stunning series of portraits and street scenes taken in the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zaidi invites the viewer into the world of the Sapeurs—men and increasingly women—who dress in bright, luxurious suits with Parisian flair amid urban neighborhoods marked by poverty and postcolonial challenges.

Instagram: redonion1515

Image Credits
They are all mine. except the first image but I can’t remember who took the shot.