cover image by tenki
Introduction
'Distance from the Sea' is a global online photo contest hosted by cizucu, open to any creator registered with cizucu. The contest curates outstanding works from submissions to discover new talents as a platform and support the community.
This contest was held under the theme of 'Distance between the Sea and Life'. We received many submissions depicting daily life by the sea, the horizon at dusk, and moments enveloped by the scent of the tide, all gently embracing our lives.
We also welcomed Kento Hirasue, Koki Manju, and Utaumi as official curators for this contest.
Now, let's introduce the submitted and awarded works.
Submission Showcase
Image by crossroad0201
crossroad0201
'Evening in the Fisherman's Town'
📷 FUJIFILM X-S10
cizucu Editorial Team
As fishing boats quietly return to port at dusk in the fisherman's town, the sea gently changes its colors. The end of the day paints a serene picture of the daily lives gathering in the town. It's a time when the day flows slowly to its end. A good time indeed.
Image by tamu1500
tamu15000
'Frozen Memories'
📷 NIKON D750
cizucu Editorial Team
The image of two children absorbed in playing in the sand by the sea. It beautifully captures an irreplaceable moment quietly breathing in unforgettable memories. Only I, who nostalgically recall those days, change with the years. Between the changing self and the frozen memories, there is a faint sense of transience.
Awarded Works
Selected by Kento Hirasue
Image by mitake
mitake
'Hometown Sea'
📷 FUJIFILM X-T4
Kento Hirasue's Comment
'Hometown' is something you only feel nostalgic about once you leave it. This photo beautifully captures that emotional distance. The landscape, with light shining through, the turbulent sea, and the small lighthouse, all seem to convey a message, making it a remarkable scene.
Selected by Koki Manju
Image by Ueko Ikuto
Uejo Ikuto
'People are Born'
Koki Manju's Comment
Among the photos submitted, this one stood out with its unique presence. The genre is a 'portrait' with people as the main focus. The keyword 'sea' seems to be hidden at first glance, but the words 'People are Born' written with the photo evoke an image of the sea. The relationship, concept, and distance between the 'sea' and the person captured are visible in this wonderful piece.
Selected by Utaumi
Image by rnisa33
rnisa33
The Onomichi Channel is very quiet in the early morning
No sound of cars or shipyard work
Only the sound of one ship echoes...
Is it out for fishing?
It sails through the golden sea
Utaumi's Comment
A photo that captures the intersection of nature and human activity. I was drawn to the way the boundary is softly and ambiguously drawn by the ripples created by the boat, rather than being sharply divided. Thinking about how nature and humans influence each other to create this beautiful scenery makes me feel happy. This intersection felt fitting for the theme 'Distance from the Sea,' so I selected it. The calm sea and the boat heading towards the sunrise seem to paint a picture of hope, making me want to pray for this beautiful scenery to continue forever. It's a photo you want to keep looking at.
In Conclusion
How was it? The sea, boundless and without borders, envelops the daily lives and stories of people living by it, culminating in a complete contest. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants, award winners, and the three curators who supported the project. Award winners, please look forward to receiving works from the curators.
May the sentiments towards the sea ride the waves and resonate forever.
