Cover photo by Takeru Hagihara
Listen Closely
'Listen Closely' is a global online photo contest hosted by cizucu, open to all creators registered on the cizucu platform. The contest curates outstanding submissions to discover new talent and support the community.
This time, the theme is 'Listen Closely.'
As the vibrant seasons pass, light and sound gently fade away. Yet, even in this quietness, there are sounds that remain unspoken.
The rustling of trees, someone's laughter, the faint rhythm resonating deep within your heart.
When you listen closely, the world always speaks to you with kindness.
Capture the sounds and sensations you hear with your unique perspective.
How will the invisible 'sounds' resonate in your photographs?
We look forward to seeing your work touch someone's heart.
Inspiration
Photo by kai_2020
kai_2020
📷 OLYMPUS OM-1
cizucu Editorial Team
During seasonal transitions, various 'sounds' blend together. The wind rustling through the trees, the rain gently tapping on the water's surface. Each sound softly signals the end of autumn. The light reflecting on the water and the subtle shifts in color feel like a moment where the boundary between 'sounds heard by the ears' and 'sounds seen by the eyes' quietly dissolves.
Photo by Takeru Hagihara
Takeru Hagihara
'Dance While You Can'
📷 FUJIFILM X-E4
cizucu Editorial Team
Laughter overlaps, and the sound of glasses clinking resonates softly. It's a rhythm freer than music and gentler than applause. The 'pauses' and 'breaths' that flow here are born from the long time spent together. The murmurs of this space might just be a part of the music of life.
Photo by Yuya
Yuya
'Bokeh'
📷 SONY α7 III
cizucu Editorial Team
As winter approaches, the city begins to glow. The twinkling of illuminations, the laughter of passersby, and the distant melody of carols. Even in the hurried pace of the night, small 'exciting' sounds bounce around. It felt as if the season was smiling gently beyond the cold air.
Photo by Chico.
Chico.
cizucu Editorial Team
Beyond the window lies a world that feels entirely different. Light filters through the curtains, swaying, while the rustling of trees echoes softly. That sound stirs distant memories, and the more you listen, the more your heart begins to move. Outside, there may still be unfamiliar sounds and sensations waiting. This photograph makes you want to reach out and draw back the curtain to explore that world.
Photo by Yosuke0312
Yosuke0312
'Once Upon a Balloon Festival'
📷 NIKON D750
cizucu Editorial Team
The end of the year is a season when the city feels a bit more lively. Events are held everywhere, and voices and laughter overlap. From this liveliness, vibrant sounds are born. The heated air, lively conversations, and bursts of cheers—all these sounds mix and rise into the sky. When you listen closely, you can hear the joy of this moment.
Contest Information
【Event Period】
Saturday, November 15, 2025 – Sunday, December 14, 2025
【Winner Announcement】
Around Wednesday, December 24, 2025
【Rewards】
Free participation in cizucu's 'Photo Poster Project' (worth 6,000 yen, for 2 winners)
【How to Enter】
・Select the contest 'Listen Closely'
・Tap 'Agree to the terms and submit'
・Choose your submission content and apply
【Judging Criteria】
(1) Thematic Relevance: Does it align with the stated mission?
(2) Subject Clarity: Does the intention of the photographer come through?
(3) Expressiveness: Is there skill in perspective, composition, balance, focus, and color?
(4) Timing: Does it capture the right moment?
(5) Originality: Are the location and subject uniquely crafted?
