During the event, participants were introduced to Komori's business areas and the role of printing in society, followed by a tour of the manufacturing facility where Komori printing presses are produced. By learning about the technologies behind printed materials they encounter in their daily lives and the processes involved in manufacturing printing presses, participants gained a deeper understanding of printing technology.

After the factory tour, KGC staff held a mini-seminar on printing technology. The seminar covered the basics of offset and digital printing, as well as Komori's print technologies that support high-quality printing.

An explanation of the process behind full-color printing using offset printing.

The highlight of the event was a hands-on printing experience using the J-throne 29, a 29-inch Sheetfed UV Inkjet Digital Printing Press. Participants had the opportunity to see firsthand how their own photographs were transformed from digital data into physical prints.

Taking advantage of the UV ink's ability to print on a wide range of substrates, participants printed the same photograph on various types of paper, including glossy paper, matte paper, Japanese washi paper, and fine paper such as VENT NOUVEAU. They were able to experiment with how the impression of a photograph changes depending on the paper used.

Participants shared a variety of comments, including:

"Everything was new to me, from the manufacturing process and wide range of printing press capabilities to the precision of the actual printing. It was a refreshing and very enjoyable experience. The three-hour program went by so quickly."

"It was great to be able to compare different papers and printing results alongside the works of other participants."

"I was amazed by how dramatically the expression of a photograph could change when printed on different types of paper, as well as by the speed of the printing process."

"The experience of printing on translucent paper and viewing the result with a backlight was particularly memorable."

Participants printed the same photograph on various types of paper to compare the different impressions created by each.

The event also brought together Komori employees who had entered a photo contest held within the Komori Group, providing an opportunity for them to interact with the participating photographers. Conversations about the employees' photographs became lively, with photographers commenting on aspects such as the interesting compositions and asking what they had been thinking or feeling when taking the photographs, creating an enjoyable time of interaction.

One employee involved in the production of the J-throne 29 commented:
"Although I am involved in manufacturing the components, I rarely have an opportunity to see the actual printing process. It was deeply moving to see the photographers enjoying the printed results of their photographs."

For Komori employees, the event provided a valuable opportunity to rediscover the value of printing from a different perspective from their everyday work.

Left: In addition to B2-size prints, postcards and stickers were also printed.
Right: Participants shared their thoughts and impressions while reflecting on the program.

Through this event, the participating photographers were able to experience firsthand the appeal and possibilities of photographic expression that can be expanded through different printing methods.
For Komori employees, the event was also a valuable experience that allowed them to appreciate the significance of manufacturing and the value created through printing through direct interaction with customers.
Komori will continue to share the appeal and possibilities of printing with an even wider audience and strive to create new value through printing.