2023
Started wildlife photography
Transitioned from production-centered work to field-driven visual practice.
Fumiko Uchiyama
Animal Photographer / Documentary Development
Profile
Fumiko Uchiyama
Animal Photographer / Documentary Development
After graduating from the School of Cinematic Arts at USC and working in a film production company, I shifted my focus to wildlife photography in 2023. Witnessing environmental pressure in the field led me to combine visual storytelling with tree-planting and stewardship work.
Graduated from USC School of Cinematic Arts
Worked in a film production company before going independent
Began wildlife photography after the passing of a beloved dog
Started dedicated wildlife photography in 2023
Began documentary development on the KALA founder in 2025
Film Project
KALA: From Then to Now ― Volunteer Tree-Planting Project in India
NPO Jomon Future / Jomon Gakko, established in 2002, has continuously worked on environmental and educational initiatives.
Their Network KALA Project began in Hamamatsu after the 2011 earthquake as part of local disaster resilience. From 2012 to 2025, the team planted over 10,000 broadleaf trees along the Enshu-nada coastal embankment.
In December 2024, I joined a one-week field scouting trip to India, where we confirmed the urgency of planting and cleanup efforts. The word KALA carries layers of meaning including art, time, infinity, and wave.
The next action is scheduled for March 2026 in Bodh Gaya, India: a planting and cleanup initiative connecting Japan and India. I am documenting this journey through documentary filmmaking.
KALA Official SiteTimeline
Activity Timeline
2024
Field scouting in India
One-week scouting started on December 17, 2024, for the international KALA expansion.
2025
Documentary development
Launched documentary development on the KALA founder and the planting movement.
2026
Bodh Gaya action plan
Planning a public planting and cleanup performance in March 2026.
Future
Upcoming Initiatives
2026- / Planning
Photo Book Launch
A publication project combining wildlife photography with records of planting initiatives.
2026- / Planning
Solo Exhibition
An exhibition format connecting images, process notes, and community actions.
In Development / In Progress
Documentary Release
A feature documentary on the KALA vision, currently in production planning.