Delving into the sensibilities and thoughts of creators worldwide in 'ISSUE'. A source of new inspiration. In 'ISSUE #20', we interviewed yanma222 and yasufumi, the official curators of the cizucu-hosted photo contest 'Landscape Treasures', about their unforgettable memories of landscapes.
As we approach the announcement of the contest winners on December 27, 2023, we delve into the original experiences of joy and emotion felt by the two curators in relation to the theme of this photo contest, 'Scenery Like Treasures'.
Memories of Sea of Clouds in Everyday Life
Everyday scenes like flowers in the viewfinder, blue skies, inorganic buildings, bicycles parked by the roadside, and the interplay of light and shadow were all fresh to me. The sea of clouds at Takeda Castle Ruins in Hyogo Prefecture, which I visited when my knowledge of cameras was still shallow, provided me with a scenery that I will never forget, adding it to the treasure chest of my memories.
On my first sea of clouds challenge, as the sun rose, the vast sea of clouds spread at my feet turned orange, and I still clearly remember the excitement when the local staff said, 'This is the best sea of clouds this year.'
When people encounter a beautiful scenery that leaves them speechless, it is unconsciously stored as a memory, and no matter how many years pass, it can be recalled.
It is not only the scenery of that time but also the scent, temperature, the gentle touch of the wind, and even the chirping of birds that I remember vividly.
Image by yanma222
Scenery on a trip is an extraordinary view. It becomes a treasure when you return to everyday life.
Therefore, when judging, I focused on the expression, composition, balance, and originality in photography, including the theme and subject matter. Photography is not just an image but a means to convey emotions and stories. Therefore, it is important to consider whether the theme and subject matter are embedded in the photograph and whether it has the power to convey something to the viewer. I also valued composition and balance, and whether the photograph is unique and distinct from others was a criterion for judgment.
INFORMATION
Transcending Boundaries with Majestic Beauty
One of the most memorable moments was when I encountered the landscape from Kuju to Aso during a visit to Kyushu. The majestic beauty, which seemed almost unreal for Japan, captivated me instantly. Unable to forget that memory, I return to Kuju and Aso at least once a year to continue experiencing that beautiful landscape. Such individual experiences imbue photographs with deep emotion and stories.
Image by yasufumi
Photos that convey the emotion of being captivated by a scenery in an instant have a sense of dedication. For example, the fleeting light.
This time, in selecting the photos, we focused on photography skills and the way light is captured. We carefully considered the composition to enhance the beauty of the moment and paid attention to how light was used. We also carefully judged whether the photo captured a unique landscape or event that could only be seen at that moment.
INFORMATION
Started mountain climbing as a hobby and began photography to capture the landscapes seen during climbs. Now travels to various places seeking seasonal landscapes and cultures, with photos featured in various media, gaining recognition, and winning awards in photo contests and serving as a judge.
cizucu: @yasufumi
Instagram: @yasufumi_phot
How was it? From this moment, don't you want to set out on a journey to seek the beautiful landscapes your heart envisions? 2023 is about to end soon. Through cizucu, please share your precious memories and beautiful landscapes of 2023. Let's look back on the treasure-like moments of this year together.
Look forward to the announcement of the 'Landscape Treasures' winners on December 27, 2023!
