One trend that’s shaking up the world of creatives and photographers like you? Coloring books for adults! Studies have shown that coloring as an exercise reduces stress, alleviates anxiety, and combats creative blocks. It also enhances mindfulness and helps you organize your ideas and thoughts. It makes sense why we’ve seen this type of photography popping up on our Marketplace.

One particular photographer in our community, Kouichi Chiba doesn’t need a coloring book or other art materials for this exercise. Using simple pencils, paper, and pens, this Japan-based photographer has tapped into his inner creativity with very productive results. It helped him find a photography style that’s truly unique! First, he adds colors to the tiny characters he created. Next, he cuts them out of paper. Then, he places his paper cut-out characters at home, in the city, and in nature (even inside soap bubbles!) to form charming compositions. Finally, he brings them to life by capturing them through the lenses of his camera. His imaginative photo series portrays adventure, drama, and it didn’t take long for his images to capture our hearts.

In honor of National Pencil Day today, we collected 25 of his most charming, color-soaked photos below. Scroll down and get inspired!

TOKYO by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Spring by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Morning by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Little Hero by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

The Smell of Autumn by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

My dog by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Excursion of the night by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Autumn Sunlight by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Sunset, Sunrise, by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Station by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Do you remember? by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Glimmer of hope by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Walk by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

On the cherry tree by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Seaside by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Untitled by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Make a star by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Catch the wind by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

In the forest by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Your Warmth by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Can you hear me ? by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Camellia by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

My voice by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Swing by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

Good night by Kouichi Chiba on 500px.com

 

To see more his awe-inspiring work, follow Kouichi Chiba on 500px or Instagram.