I consider myself truly lucky to have grown up in a generation of legendary music, nostalgic fun toys, and the early dawn of technology. My childhood was essentially a front-row seat to creativity. I was encouraged to have a vivid imagination and an endless curiosity about how everything worked. This included everything from music and action figures to electronics and, most definitely, 8-bit video games. Those were the games where you actually had levels to conquer and a storyline to finish, earning the deep satisfaction of a hard-fought victory.
Today, online gaming offers something different — a continuous, connected experience with friends around the world. There is real joy in that connection. My journey from there to here has shaped everything about how I see creativity, play, and technology. Along the way, I learned to integrate technology into my life in meaningful ways, including Adobe Photoshop. My cousin first taught me my first lessons in Photoshop and my curiosity took further on that journey. I believe that technology, when used with right purpose and intention, it’s a powerful tool that can make a toy photograph truly extraordinary.
Looking back, I can see how quickly the world around us has shifted — and I know I am not alone in feeling it.
Enter AI
As society accelerates into a fast-paced digital era, our rapid advancement of AI tools often causes us to lose sight of the evolving landscape of childhood play. We’re at a pivotal point where many, myself included, are beginning to contemplate the consequences of technology becoming so deeply integrated into our lives.
I have come to realize that our hobby as toy photographers is rooted in our own childhoods. Whether we were immersed in the building blocks of LEGO or the worlds of action figures like Star Wars, G.I. Joe, He-Man, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Transformers, Smurfs, Rainbow Brite, Care Bears, Cabbage Patch Kids, or Strawberry Shortcake. These are the toys shaped us. My generation grew up in a world defined by creativity and imagination. Today, those memories help us create content that captures the very essence of our art: what I call “The Art of Expression.”
The shift
A few years ago, I asked my 8-year-old nephew, “What’s your favorite toy to play with?” I hoped he would say Lego since we’d spent considerable time building and creating together since he was two years old. However, that wasn’t his choice, nor his friends’. He preferred playing video games, particularly the popular game Fortnite. This was an opinion shared by his friends as well. They like especially like Fortnight because the platform provides interactive communication among players.
It seems that nowadays toys have been replaced by video games and electronic devices. Seemingly glued to children’s faces 24/7. I’ve noticed that when parents limit or disapprove of video game/cellphone time, kids are primarily outdoors engaging in physical activities. Sports like basketball, baseball, football, volleyball and jiu-jitsu have the added benefit of maintaining good health.
The shift from free play to electronic play feels drastic and rapid. Where I once saw kids with toys in their hands, now I more often see iPhones, iPads, Nintendo Switches, etc. Because of my own experience, I believe that without physical toys, we lose the foundation of creativity and imagination. I want to find a way to bridge this gap and show children the magic that can still be found in physical play and creative storytelling.
I fear that if we lose the art form of toy photography — which is vital for fostering growth and enriching future generations — we could face a concerning future. As AI begins to take over various art forms, we risk having fewer engineers, architects, scientists, artists, painters, musicians, dancers, and especially the already few toy photographers around the world.
My journey in pictures
To share my journey, I have carefully created a six-piece narrative storyline to encourage the younger generation to explore their imaginations with courage. I hope these photos spark curiosity and bring you a sense of happiness. As a toy photographer, I truly believe that the Encouragement of the Imagination is an essential part of a child’s development and a necessary expression for the generations to come.
Hello my name is Ki and this image represents the humble beginnings of my toy photography journey — this image was born from a deep passion and love for toys.
Hirono figures reveal a depth of emotion we often hide from the world, and from ourselves — afraid that vulnerability will be mistaken for weakness. But it takes real strength to accept those feelings and face them head-on. Never let anyone tell you sensitivity is a weakness; it’s your greatest strength — empathy — and it’s exactly what the world needs.
About the Author
“My life is a collection of collections — not just of toys and vinyl records, but of experiences, skills, and passions. From the dance floor to the thunderous rhythms of Taiko, the DJ booth to the woodworking bench, each path I’ve walked has shaped who I am. As a toy designer, vendor, maker, and photographer, I bring creativity into everything I touch. But perhaps my most meaningful roles is the two I return to most — as a Toy Photographer & Woodworker dedicated to motivating and inspiring others through the Magic & Power of the Arts.”
I absolutely agree that something is being lost by discarding toys. In a way, play is being discarded. Video games are super fun, I myself enjoy playing a fair handful and I have some great memories playing things like Minecraft with my friends. There is something so important about physical, tactile toys, even now.
Also I love the idea of a tiny art gallery to show your photography journey!
Wow. What a great piece, Ki. I love your own evolution and your take on toy photography and young people today. Loved your six image narrative as well. Well done as always. Thanks for sharing your story and your work with us all!