photo poster project | If You Have the Desire to Try, That's Enough. by Yumi | ISSUE #79

Since late last year, cizucu has been hosting the across various locations in Japan. By simply submitting your photos to cizucu, you can participate in the photo poster exhibition and meet fellow photographers you haven't encountered before.
This time, we spoke with Yumi, a creator who participated in the .

Please Introduce Yourself!
My name is Yumi. I’m originally from Ishikawa Prefecture and currently live in Gifu Prefecture. I started photography in the summer of 2022, so it’s been almost three years now.
Usually, I take photos in the three prefectures of Gifu, Toyama, and Ishikawa, capturing everything from everyday moments to landscapes, flowers, and events. I don’t stick to specific genres; I photograph whatever catches my heart.
What Made You Decide to Participate?
While I had experience participating in photo exhibitions with my local photography club in Gifu and large group exhibitions in the Tokyo metropolitan area, I had never exhibited large A2-sized photos before. I had always been interested in the event.
However, the event locations were far away, and since I usually work on weekends, I thought it would be difficult for me to participate in exhibitions that required being present at the venue. I had almost given up.
This time, however, I happened to have a trip to Tokyo planned at the same time as the . I thought, "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I have to do it!" and decided to participate.
How Was the Experience?
It was my first time participating in a photo exhibition where exhibitors could thoroughly discuss each other's works, so it felt very refreshing. Sharing feedback on each other's works sparked new ideas for photography, and I was able to add new interpretations to my own work, which was very inspiring.
Connecting with creators from the Kanto region, whom I usually wouldn’t interact with directly, was also a significant takeaway for me.
The staff's thoughtful attention to detail created a welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to participate, for which I am truly grateful.

Why Did You Choose That Particular Photo?
This photo captures the sunrise beginning to rise behind cherry blossoms in full bloom along a river in a mountain village. Among the cherry blossom photos I’ve taken every spring, this one embodies the ideal image I’ve always wanted to capture.
I thought it would be interesting to display this rural scenery in the heart of Shibuya, a bustling urban area. I’d be delighted if people could sense the beauty of the scenery I usually see and the life that coexists with it.

For Those Considering Joining the photo poster project
When it comes to photo exhibitions, many people might feel they are intimidating, but that’s not the case at all. As long as you have a love for photography, the is open to everyone.
If you have even the slightest desire to try, I encourage you to take the leap and participate. You’re bound to have an experience beyond your imagination!
