'I was here'
‘I was here’ is a global online photo contest presented by cizucu, open to all creators registered on cizucu. Outstanding submissions will be curated, aiming to discover new talent through the platform and foster support within the community.
The theme for this edition is Serendipity (moments of chance, unexpected discoveries).
Share the beauty and warmth of the moments you have captured, as well as your fortunate, serendipitous discoveries, as proof that “I was here.”
Your work may capture the depth of emotion found in family bonds, friendship, love, joy, or sorrow. Or, it may express the hidden beauty and wonder in everyday moments. From your unique perspective, we invite you to explore the serendipity found in daily life.
Inspiration

Image by Harasy
Harasy
“The distance to the sea keeps changing in irregular cycles.”
📸 Canon EOS 5D Mark III
cizucu Editorial Team
This work captures a moment where the natural harmony of sunset and sea conjures a magical serendipity, evoking deep emotion in the viewer. It embodies the spirit of serendipity, reminding us of the value of extraordinary moments that are often overlooked in our busy lives.

Image by テル
テル
“The gradation of the sky was beautiful 🥹”
📸 SONY ILCE-7RM5
cizucu Editorial Team
This photograph captures the breathtaking landscape where the majestic presence of Mt. Fuji and the lakeside torii gate intertwine, seizing a moment of serendipity born between chance and inevitability. The gentle sunlight touching the summit and its reflection on the water convey the silent power inherent in Japan’s natural world.

image by YuKoreeda
YuKoreeda
cizucu Editorial Team
Through the intricate patterns of leaves that evoke the breath of the forest, this work reflects the subtle beauty of nature. The vibrant life force hidden within the tranquil green world, pure as a drop of water, conveys a serendipitous moment capturing the beauty of chance.

Image by しろくてしろい
しろくてしろい
“#Light and Shadow”
📸 NIKON Z fc
cizucu Editorial Team
This work skillfully captures the artistry of light streaming in, expressing moments of serendipity hidden within the everyday. The warm rays of the setting sun reflected on the floor may seem simple at first glance, but they remind us of the joy of discovering profound beauty in the ordinary.

image by shizuku
shizuku
“Wa”
📸 FUJIFILM X-T20
cizucu Editorial Team
A warm bowl of sweet red bean soup captures a moment of unexpected comfort. The gently toasted color of the mochi and the traditional ceramic patterns evoke a sense of Japanese harmony, offering a brief respite from the bustle of daily life. This simple yet heartwarming scene expresses the beauty of serendipity that breathes within the everyday.
Capture those serendipitous moments and unexpected discoveries, as well as the depth of emotion hidden in daily life.
We look forward to seeing how you explore serendipity from your own unique perspective!
Contest Information
[Contest Period]
Saturday, February 17, 2024 – Saturday, March 16, 2024
[Award Announcement]
Friday, March 29, 2024
[Rewards]
Premium license acquisition of three awarded works by cizucu
[How to Submit]
・Select the contest ‘I was here’
・Tap “Agree to Submission Guidelines and Post”
・Select your content and submit your work
[Jury Criteria]
(1) Thematic Relevance: Does the work align with the stated mission?
(2) Subject Matter: Is the photographer’s intent clearly conveyed within the image?
(3) Expressiveness: Does the work demonstrate expressive power in perspective, composition, balance, focus, color, etc.?
(4) Moment: Has the photographer captured the decisive moment and timing of the subject?
(5) Originality: Does the work show unique creativity in location, subject, or approach?
Cover image by YuKoreeda

