"AFTER TALK" with Eric Coleman
An analog photo exhibition that preserves the memory of hip-hop and its aftermath
"Capturing the world through an analogue lens"
Eric Coleman on Photography and Culture
Photographer Eric Coleman designed the cover of the landmark hip-hop album "Madvillainy" and has photographed legends such as J Dilla, MF DOOM, and Madlib over the years.
The day before the release of the capsule collection, a one-night-only photo exhibition titled "ANALOG VISION" was held at Shibuya TRUNK(HOTEL), which was well-attended by many visitors.
Eric Coleman himself was the DJ, livening up the venue and creating a special atmosphere for everyone there.
Here, we look back at the excitement at the venue with photos, and through an exclusive interview with Eric Coleman, we delve deeper into the background of the photo exhibition, what it was like on the day, and the thoughts behind the capsule collection.
--Looking back on the photo exhibition "ANALOG VISION," how do you feel now?
Eric Coleman (E): To be honest, it ended so quickly that I wished it could have continued.
It was such an intense time.
Just being able to come back to Japan was a great experience for me.
-Did you discover anything new during your stay?
E: This was my fourth visit to Japan, but unlike the previous ones, this time I didn't make many plans and just walked around the city.
That was really good.
Rather than making a new discovery, I feel like I was able to experience the good things about Japan once again and gain a deeper understanding of it.
-What meal left the biggest impression on you?
E: It's the mackerel set meal I had for breakfast.
It's simple but unforgettable.
I have a lot of respect for not only Japanese food, but also the people and culture.
--What is the meaning behind the exhibition title "ANALOG VISION"?
E: "ANALOG" refers to film shooting.
And "VISION" refers to taking pictures with intention.
Digital is convenient, but because you can take an infinite number of photos, I feel like the ability to capture a moment becomes diluted.
Film captures the moment, making it more real and sending a stronger message.
That's why I wanted to present an "analog perspective" in this day and age.
--What works in the exhibition were particularly impressive to you?
E： One is 'MF DOOM proof sheet style 2003'.
The work was created by scanning continuous cuts from film, and it truly embodies an "analog perspective."
Then there's a photo of NxWorries (Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge).
They were still unknown at the time, and Jeff Jank of Stones Throw chose the background colors for us.
It's an artistic piece and I really like it.
-Why did you choose Japan as the venue?
E: Simply because I love Japan.
I wanted a reason to go (laughs).
What's more, this time it was great that I was able to print the work large.
My passion for photography was rekindled.
-Please tell us about your collaboration with APPLEBUM.
Was there a particular trigger?
E: In 2022, I saw that B+ (Brian Cross) was working with APPLEBUM and I wanted to do the same, so I contacted Hiro directly.
From there, the collaboration took place. 
Pop-up "Live it, breathe it, be it." held at the launch of the B+ (Brian Cross) capsule collection
For more information on APPLEBUM × B+ Capsule Collection at DAYZ, click here
-Is there anything in the completed collection that you particularly like?
E： T-shirts are nice, but skateboards are the best.
It's an item I've wanted to make for a long time, and I used to skate a lot as a kid, so it was quite moving to see the real thing.
*Scheduled for release in January 2026
-Now, let me ask you about your own roots.
How did you start photographing hip-hop artists?
E: At first I loved photography so I went to art school and entered the industry aiming to become a fashion photographer, but it didn't really feel right.
I didn't like the fact that I couldn't take pictures freely.
At that time, Stones Throw took notice of me and Jeff Jank gave me some praise.
That's how I became a photographer working between music and fashion.
How would you describe your photography style in one word?
E: Honesty.
I don't Photoshop my body shape.
It is important to capture the subject as it is.
Simple yet powerful, that's my style. 
-Does the music or work of the people you photograph influence your photography?
E: Of course.
In fact, I only photograph artists whose music I like.
Sometimes I listen to their songs before a shoot and use the sound to set the mood for the shoot.
For example, when I photographed Dam-Funk, I was conscious of the Blood and Crip culture that he grew up in, so I incorporated red and blue into the frame.
-Where do you usually get your inspiration from?
E: I get a lot from paintings.
I am particularly influenced by Caravaggio's use of light.
As for photographers, I have learned a lot from Richard Avedon and Gordon Parks.
I also look at magazines, movies, cityscapes...everything in my daily life from a photographic perspective.
-Are there any themes you would like to challenge yourself with in the future?
E: I want to shoot streets all over the world.
The atmosphere in each city is different - LA, Tokyo, London, New York - but I feel like there's a common vibe at the root of it all.
I want to capture that "moment of resonance" in a photograph.
-Finally, a message to your Japanese fans.
E: It was a real honor to have my work seen in Japan.
I hope it gives you a new perspective and inspiration.
I hope to continue connecting with people through photography.
thank you very much. 
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[Eric Coleman]
A photographer based in Los Angeles, USA.
He has photographed artists such as J Dilla, MF DOOM, and Madlib over the years, and has earned high praise for his work that captures the "essence" of hip-hop culture.
His work is characterized by a unique approach that delves into the inner world of his subjects and a tranquil atmosphere that evokes a sense of storytelling.
He is also known as the co-founder of the music/video collective "Mochilla," and is active in a wide range of fields, including documentary productions and live projects.
His work, which has continued to document the golden age of hip-hop, is more than just a mere documentary; it reflects his deep respect and affection for the culture itself. 
▼Click here for the Eric Coleman capsule collection
https://applebum.jp/collections/eric-coleman
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