Cover photo by takaomikim
Introduction
'May Diary '25' is a global online photo contest hosted by cizucu, open to all creators registered on the platform. The contest curates outstanding submissions to discover new talents and support the community as a platform.
The theme for this contest was 'May Diary.'
The 'Diary' series is a contest where participants post photos taken daily along with the day's events, much like a diary.
As the season transitions from spring to early summer in May, the vibrant greenery and refreshing breeze make it a perfect time to go out. Whether it's a Golden Week trip, time with family, a refreshing moment in nature, or taking a step toward a new challenge, May offers unique memories to capture in photos. Even small discoveries in daily life can turn into a wonderful shot.
We invited participants to share their photos capturing this month through their unique perspectives. Thank you for all your submissions!
Submissions
Photo by はくらく
はくらく
端午の節句。毎年実家に飾っていた僕の兜を息子のために我が家へお引越し。
いままで僕のことを守っていてくれてありがとう。今年からは僕の息子を見守っていて下さい。
📷 OLYMPUS E-M1MarkII
cizucu Editorial Team
The emotions embedded in the helmet passed down through generations are quietly yet powerfully conveyed. The flow of time, from being protected to becoming the protector, is gently captured in this personal and heartfelt record. A deeply moving piece.
Photo by techi☺︎
techi☺︎
May 25th, a year since my last visit to Osaka Station. It was my first PPP experience.
To ease my nerves, I took a few snaps with an old lens.
On a bustling Sunday at Osaka Station, there was a brief moment of stillness when the crowd dispersed, and I caught sight of a Ferris wheel floating against the cloudy sky.
📷 SONY α7 IV
cizucu Editorial Team
This photo appears to be from your first participation in the 'Photo Poster Project' hosted by cizucu. While you mention being nervous, the calmness amidst the city's hustle and bustle reflects a sense of anticipation and excitement in this piece.
Photo by takaomikim
takaomikim
cizucu Editorial Team
A glance over the shoulder reveals a moment filled with the essence of everyday life. While it may not be extraordinary, it is an irreplaceable page of 'May Diary.' The film's texture captures the warmth and atmosphere of life, making the photo feel like a tangible memory.
Award-Winning Entries
Photo by RYOTAPHOTOGRAPH 原田涼太
RYOTAPHOTOGRAPH 原田涼太
Kamakura Yuzen - Sakai Norihito
📷 NIKON D90
cizucu Editorial Team
The monochrome shadows capture the craftsman's gaze and hand movements, conveying the weight of years and pride with quiet intensity. The close-up perspective reflects the determination of both the craftsman and the photographer, making this an exceptional piece.
Photo by EMO
EMO
On a May afternoon, I discovered a beautiful pattern of light and shadow on the usual staircase. The rhythmic shadows created by the vertical railings tell the story of the refreshing early summer sunlight.
A moment of pause during a routine commute turned a familiar scene into something extraordinary. These small discoveries transform an ordinary day into a memorable one.
📷 FUJIFILM X-T50
cizucu Editorial Team
The rhythmic interplay of light and shadow on a seemingly ordinary staircase feels like a fleeting piece of art created by nature. The caption also captures this quiet sense of wonder, reminding us that small discoveries can inspire us anew.
Closing Remarks
What did you think?
The photos submitted under the theme of 'May Diary' were irreplaceable records of everyday life, captured from each participant's unique perspective. From family moments and travel scenes to discoveries in daily life and moments of pause, these photos beautifully captured the light of May and left a lasting impression.
It is often the seemingly ordinary days that hold the most value. This contest reminded us of that. See you at the next contest!
