Introduction
'February Diary '26' is a global online photography contest organized by cizucu, open to any creator registered on cizucu. Outstanding submissions are curated from among the entries, with the aim of discovering new talent as a platform and supporting the community as a whole.
This edition's theme was “February Diaries”.
The 'Diary' series is a contest where participants submit photographs taken each day, accompanied by the day's events, much like a diary.
February is a month where the lingering touch of winter gradually gives way to the light of spring.
From morning walks with cheeks tinged by the cold, to stars twinkling in the crisp night sky, or the momentary thrill of seeing chocolates lined up in shop windows—these fleeting moments in the rush of daily life were captured in photographs.
The emotions that sway between winter and spring are sure to become irreplaceable images unique to this moment.
Now, we are pleased to present the submissions and the awarded works.
Submissions
Photo by Nicky Chan
Nicky Chan
📷 NORITSU KOKI QSS-32_33
cizucu Editorial Team
A lively cityscape bathed in gentle light. Here, the unadorned rhythms of daily life—people shopping, merchants at work—are distilled into a single frame. The energy of passersby is palpable, warming even the viewer. An ordinary day's scenery is preserved as a precious memory, much like a page from a diary.
Photo by Ryohei
Ryohei
26.2.8 Bamboo Grove Path, Arashiyama
📷 NIKON Z 8
cizucu Editorial Team
This bamboo grove, transformed into a silvery world unique to this season, is beautifully captured as a vivid rickshaw in bright vermilion moves through its tranquil atmosphere. The solemnity of the bamboo stretching skyward and the powerful presence of the rickshaw complement each other, resulting in an image that inspires a sense of awe.
Photo by danceforallthepain
danceforallthepain
cizucu Editorial Team
Though not entirely visible, the affectionate gaze and radiant smile in this image are striking. It conveys a deep sense of tenderness and love that transcends words. Even the warmth of the moment and the gentle atmosphere seem to be encapsulated here, communicating the preciousness of the feelings that filled this instant.
Awarded Works
Photo by JasonMusicman
JasonMusicman
Ever since I fell in love with photography, I've enjoyed searching for new places, then inviting friends to go together, and savoring the moment.
I remember we set off at around 5:30 in the morning to film this place. Getting there wasn't easy; we climbed mountains and explored caves before finally reaching our destination.
cizucu Editorial Team
The luminous beauty of a bridge emerging from darkness and mist tells of the exhilaration reserved for those who overcome a challenging journey. The scene evokes a cinematic, otherworldly atmosphere. Captured through passion and friendship, this is truly a dramatic page from a diary.
Photo by kahoru
kahoru
“A Drop Toward Spring”
cizucu Editorial Team
An ice sculpture at the tip of a bamboo, as if time itself has stopped in the freezing cold. The moment just before a drop falls is captured in close-up, radiating light and a complex brilliance. This accidental beauty, born from the harshness of winter, conveys both delicacy and strength—a fleeting beauty unique to this season.
In Closing
We hope you enjoyed this feature.
Each of your works captured beautiful moments encountered throughout February.
The subtle expressions unique to this time of year—such as the beauty in clear air and the warmth of people in everyday life as winter transitions to spring—were all conveyed with care through your photographs.
The contest themed around March Diaries, 'March Diary '26', is also underway. We look forward to seeing your works that capture the gentle signs of spring!