An interesting coincidence led him to start taking photographs - after accidentally winning a free trip to the United States through raffles at a shopping mall in Tokyo, Tanaka started travelling with punk bands in the US and Europe, acquired his 1st camera from one of the band members while traveling and documenting the road. He has won Cosmos Arles PDF Award at Les Rencontres d’Arles (France), Sirmione Award for Photography – Residence (Italy), TPD Book Award (Italy), among others. selected for finalists and nomination for World Press Photo Global Talent, PHotoESPAÑA Premio al mejor libro, Gomma Photography Grant, Kassel Photobook Award, etc. has had received several grants, participated in residency programs in US, Europe and Asia. Exhibited at gallery and art/photo festivals, published several monographs in different countries.