The 'photo poster project' has been conducted by cizucu across the country since the end of last year. By simply submitting a photo to cizucu, you can participate in the photo poster exhibition and meet new photographer friends.
This time, we spoke with creator Sofu Yoshida, who participated in the photo poster project.
Please Introduce Yourself!
I am Sofu Yoshida, engaged in photography and video production.
I enjoy capturing 'snapshots with characters' that convey their feelings and lives, whether in Tokyo or during solo travels. I am fascinated by the texture of old lenses and their unique depictions, and the romance of combining technology from over 50 years ago with modern technology. All my snapshots are taken with inexpensive old lenses.
What Inspired You to Participate?
I have always been interested in and admired exhibitions where I could present my work offline.
However, not knowing how to proceed and lacking creative friends, I felt it was not something I could easily engage in. I spent my days posting my work on Instagram, like throwing stones into the dark.
Upon joining cizucu as a creator, I learned about the 'photo poster project' and thought, 'I can participate under these conditions.' The idea of sharing my creative senses and values and motivating my own creations was appealing, so I decided to participate.
How Was Your Experience Participating?
In a good way, it was surprisingly 'hands-off' for my first exhibition participation. All I had to do was arrive at the venue on time.
It's not recommended for those who prefer to create everything themselves, but for my first step forward, this was perfect. Even though I did almost nothing, seeing my work among those of other creators made me feel both proud and a bit embarrassed.
The space, free from numbers or rankings on our sensibilities, was pleasant and affirming. The difficulty of verbalizing my senses during conversations and presentations, and the creators' passion and dedication to their works, were valuable insights I gained from participating.
Why Did You Choose That Particular Piece?
After deciding to participate, I took new photos.
At around 3:00 PM at the end of January, at the crosswalk near Tamachi Station. On the orderly white lines drawn on the asphalt, people of different ages, genders, nationalities, and lifestyles start walking irregularly at their own pace every time the light turns green. The setting sun creates equal shadows, stretching with time. Most people don't pay attention to their shadows, but I know, just a little more than others, how beautiful they can be.
I chose to express that feeling.
For Those Considering Joining the photo poster project
After participating, I gained a greater sense of affirmation for my senses and expressions, and I began to view not only photography but also other forms of expression and creation more positively.
I plan to continue participating in the 'photo poster project' in the future. If we happen to meet at a venue, please share your creative senses and thoughts with me.
