Cover photo by aoyama ayaka
The 'click' sound you hear every time you take a photo with your smartphone—what if this seemingly trivial shutter sound is restricting the freedom of creators who strive for artistic expression every day? Especially for younger creators, the sound may feel out of place in quiet settings or when capturing delicate subjects.
In Japan, the inability to turn off this sound is not due to law but rather an industry 'self-regulation.' This article delves into the background and modern perspectives to explore the future of 'sound and creativity.'
The 'Sound' That Restrains Creativity
Libraries, museums, or near a sleeping baby—when you raise your smartphone in quiet places, the shutter sound often triggers a sense of hesitation. Many creators have likely experienced giving up on capturing fragments of daily life for social media due to the intrusive sound or the gaze of others.
In environments that support creativity, sound often becomes a 'barrier.'
Why Only in Japan? The Truth Behind 20+ Years of 'Self-Regulation'
In the early 2000s, to prevent illicit photography, mobile phone cameras in Japan were designed with a shutter sound that couldn't be turned off, marking the start of unique self-regulation. However, this is not a legal requirement but rather an agreement between carriers and manufacturers.
Today, with the widespread availability of silent camera apps and foreign-made smartphones, the necessity of such conventions is being reevaluated.
New Options Beyond the Sound
From SIM-free smartphones and certain Android devices to international versions of iPhones, as well as utilizing Live Photos and video recording, creators are exploring ways to minimize sound and focus on their craft.
Moving forward, balancing social considerations with freedom of expression will be a key skill and judgment in fostering new creativity in the smartphone era.
