photo poster project | Meaningful Time by Toshiyuki Maeda | ISSUE #57

The 'photo poster project' by cizucu, ongoing since the end of last year across various locations, allows participation in the photo poster exhibition just by submitting photos to cizucu. It's an opportunity to meet new photographer friends.

This time, we spoke with creator Toshiyuki Maeda, who participated in the photo poster project.

I am Toshiyuki Maeda, a graphic designer based in Osaka.
My work involves branding design, from logos and brochures to art fair planning.

I started photography to acquire a common language with photographers, and I am drawn to the aspect of fostering imagination and interpretation, as well as the communication that follows the shoot.

As a freelancer, while I had the freedom to work and express myself, I was overwhelmed with busyness, and my self-initiated projects were stalled.

Amidst this, I was looking for a venue to present my photographic works, following the flow from a previously created photo book.

Additionally, due to my work, I often worked behind the scenes for clients, and I rarely had the chance to showcase my name. I am grateful for the opportunity to both present and communicate.

The venue had a casual atmosphere, and many participants had uniquely conceptual photos, making it a valuable learning experience.

I learned that many people pursue photography as a side activity, which highlighted the depth of photography. I am grateful for the continued connections even after the event through social media.

It's a photo from the aforementioned photo book.
On the other side of the river, right behind, there's a forest leading to a mountain. The cherry tree, which perfectly embodies 'picturesque', is striking.

Whether someone planted it intentionally or an animal carried the seed, if it's the former, it's well-designed; if the latter, it's mystical. Either way, it's a location that shines no matter who photographs it.

On the other hand, I believe that the most necessary talent in photography is being present in such situations, and I hope to continue visiting locations that are inherently photogenic.

cizucu emphasizes the 'ease' of this project, but the meaningful time spent at the venue is of even greater value. Showing your work to others requires courage, which leads to serious selection and sometimes even re-developing for fine-tuning.

Printing photos usually stored digitally involves more than just output; it includes meaning, value, and joy.

Take that step forward.