Bathtubs, couples, love and challenge are strong themes throughout Haruhiko Kawaguchi’s work, with other key elements including individuality, style, communication and intimacy.

Known by the moniker ‘Photographer Hal’, the artist brings complete strangers to his confined, crucible like spaces only to convey his continuing theme of 'love of the couple'. His initial photo project, Pinky & Killer, used a small space or room to capture the willing couples. This was soon followed by his Couple Jam series, which brought the focus even closer to the subjects who were placed in a bathtub together: "I am currently seeking new dimensions in portrait photography by challenging the majestic theme of mankind, defined through love."

Developing his chosen theme of intimacy and confinement, Photographer Hal has progressed to even closer quarters – now choosing to shoot his subjects vacuum-sealed in plastic wrapping void of air. The couples he chooses as models are usually strangers he meets in underground bars or other active night-time haunts. The models appear from all walks of life; the more variety, the better.

Photographer Hal’s work has become prolific around the world and he was recently commissioned to shoot the artwork for Santigold’s latest album, 99¢. A nod to consumerism, the album cover portrays the singer shrink-wrapped amongst a collection of 99¢ flotsam and jetsam.

His latest project is called Flesh Love Returns, some of which is on show at Photo London from the 19th - 22nd May, courtesy of the IBASHO gallery.

Photographer Hal; photographerhal.com

Twitter: @photographerhal

Photo London; photolondon.org

Twitter: @photolondonfair
Instagram: @photolondonfair