The city is overflowing with a myriad of architectural works.
From modern high-rise buildings to green walls designed with environmental considerations, architecture meticulously crafted by architects and artisans draws our focus to the beauty of its details, as if zooming in with a camera.
And as you pass through stylish luxury boutiques, you may suddenly encounter a temple or shrine. When viewed from above, these historic structures often reveal glimpses of the city’s evolution.
For example, at Ise Grand Shrine, the Shikinen Sengu ritual is held every 20 years, where the shrine buildings are reconstructed anew, ensuring the transmission of skills across generations. Ancient techniques are handed down, new ones are born, and through this cycle, diverse meanings and artistry are imbued in architecture.
This time’s theme, as the title suggests, is Zoom in and out.
Like adjusting the zoom on your camera, focus on the intricate details of architecture, or take a step back to appreciate the city’s history. Venture out and capture the unique charm you discover with your shutter 📸
Inspiration

Image by Iino
Iino
“tokyo”
📷 PENTAX K-x
cizucu Editorial Team
The orderly array of windows reflects the towering Tokyo Tower. While the arrangement of these seemingly inorganic windows may appear random, it is in fact the result of careful calculation. The design, born from various perspectives such as the people who inhabit the space, the surrounding landscape, and functionality, is infused with the passion of both artisans and architects.

Image by fujikko
fujikko
“Ceiling”
📷 iPhone SE
cizucu Editorial Team
The randomly arranged mirrors on the ceiling reflect the scenery below, creating a fantastical world. This image seems to invite you into a world within the mirrors, just out of reach. Incidentally, mirrors serve to make spaces appear brighter and more expansive, and are incorporated into many architectural works. If you come across such a scene, be sure to photograph and share it.

Image by Shimakou
Shimakou
cizucu Editorial Team
When you observe a cluster of residences from afar, you suddenly notice the abundance of diverse colors and forms. Housing is essential to human life, and its design often reflects the trends of the era. Try viewing the city from above and let your thoughts wander through its ever-changing landscape.

Image by はくらく
はくらく
“Three Brothers”
cizucu Editorial Team
According to Japan’s Building Standards Act, a “building” is defined as a structure affixed to land, with a roof and columns or walls. The roof, supporting the house while exposed to rain and sunlight, is often overlooked. Yet, it may be the very source of diverse individuality.
How did you find these examples?
With just a bit of awareness, the everyday cityscape can be seen in a new light.
Enjoy capturing the rich artistry embodied in architecture 📸
Contest Information
【Exhibition Period】
Saturday, August 26, 2023 – Tuesday, September 26, 2023
【Submission Guidelines】
・Select the contest ‘Zoom in and out’
・Tap “Agree to the submission guidelines and post”
・Choose your content and submit your artwork
【Jury Criteria】
(1) Thematic Relevance: Does the work align with the stated mission?
(2) Subject Matter: Is the artist’s intent clearly conveyed within the photograph?
(3) Expressiveness: Does the work demonstrate expressive qualities such as perspective, composition, balance, focus, and color?
(4) Moment: Has the photographer captured the decisive moment or timing of the subject?
(5) Originality: Does the work show unique ingenuity in location or subject?

