cizucu organizes the worldwide. By simply submitting your photos to cizucu, you can participate in the photo poster exhibition and meet new photographer friends you’ve never encountered before.
This time, we spoke with the creator lofiseoul, who participated in the .
Please introduce yourself!
I’m John from South Korea. It’s been about seven years since I came to Japan.
I studied filmmaking at a film school in Japan. I started taking photos because I thought, "Film is a series of photos. To shoot good films, I need to understand the concept of photography." That’s how I began photography.
I initially started shooting with a , and recently, I’ve been using a , which I purchased for video shooting.
What made you decide to participate?
Just recently, I quit my job and was writing my resume at the library when I received a message on Instagram.
It was from a cizucu staff member inviting me to participate. Since I wasn’t working at the time, I thought this exhibition might broaden my perspective on photography, so I decided to join.
Until now, I mostly viewed photo exhibitions at museums like the Tokyo Photographic Art Museum, but this was my first time actually participating in one.
How was your experience participating?
“Choosing something you’re satisfied with.”
It wasn’t just about “taking photos with a camera” but also about thinking, “How do I choose the one photo I’m satisfied with from the ones I’ve taken?” It was a great opportunity to reflect on what I’ve captured and recall the feelings I had when taking those photos. It also made me question, “Is this really okay?” This exhibition not only changed my approach to photography but also slightly shifted my perspective on life.
Why did you choose that particular photo?
This photo was taken on my way home after working on job applications at the library.
Honestly, I often think, “Shouldn’t I go somewhere specifically to take photos?” So, I frequently take solo trips with my camera. But to be honest, traveling doesn’t always guarantee good photos, and it costs money. I’ve always believed that the photographer’s “heart” is more important than the “location.”
When I decided to “find beauty close to me,” I was able to create something I was truly satisfied with. That’s why I chose this photo.
A message to those considering joining the photo poster project
I’m not a recluse, but I do have an otaku side, and I’m not great at communication, so I’m not very good at meeting new people.
However, at this exhibition, I was able to communicate with many people I met for the first time. I think it’s because we shared a common interest in “photography.” Despite differences in nationality or upbringing, we were able to connect through photography, which was a very valuable experience.
Even photos taken with an can be exhibited, so if you’re a creator who resonates with the “heart” of photography, I encourage you to participate!
