The photo poster project, organized by cizucu and held in cities worldwide, is an exhibition where you can participate simply by choosing a city and date.
What we call the ppp is more than just a photography exhibition. It is a community where anyone can safely share their story, and a rare opportunity to connect with creators from around the globe in real life.
This time, we spoke with Jung Maum, a creator who participated in the photo poster project.
Please introduce yourself!
Hello, I’m Jung Maum, working between Busan and Japan. My name comes from the Japanese word “kokoro” (心), meaning “heart”—I chose it to express my desire to document with sincerity.
As a videographer, I started out shooting events, which led me to develop an interest in photography. Initially, I was drawn to landscapes and colors, but gradually I became fascinated by portraiture. I love Japanese cinema, and I shoot with both Korean and Japanese subjects.
I want to create photographs reminiscent of scenes from Japanese films, and I hope to continue shooting while moving between Busan and Japan.
What inspired you to participate?
I decided to join this project after receiving a message from cizucu. Since the message came from Japan, I felt a strong sense of connection to Japan, which made me happy.
I also learned about the platform through a Korean YouTuber I often watch, so it felt very natural to get involved.
Above all, the staff I communicated with via DM were incredibly kind, and the chance to meet creators I’d only known through Instagram was a major draw.
How was your experience participating?
I participated from the morning, and what struck me most was that it didn’t feel like I was just “viewing an exhibition”—it felt like we were all creating the exhibition together.
There was natural interaction not only among the participating creators but also with the staff, which quickly broke down barriers. The fact that we were all connected through the shared language of photography resonated quietly yet deeply with me.
Why did you choose that particular photograph?
This photograph was the very first image I posted when I started my photography Instagram. Back then, I didn’t really understand photography—I just grabbed my camera and went outside, and by chance, I encountered a moment where some elderly people were greeting each other and parting ways.
I hurriedly raised my camera, but was so focused on adjusting the settings that I only managed to capture a single frame. The moment passed in an instant. But it was then that I first truly felt, physically, that photography is about capturing a moment.
This single frame was a small act of courage that marked the beginning of my journey in photography. And this first exhibition at the photo poster project in Busan also felt like a new beginning. That’s why I felt this photograph resonated with who I am now, and I chose it for the show.
For those considering joining the photo poster project
Many different creators take part, and having the chance to talk about your own photographs and listen to others discuss theirs is an essential experience for any artist.
Whether you shoot on a smartphone, film, or digital camera, everyone brings different equipment and styles, but in front of a single photograph, a variety of emotions and ideas intersect. That atmosphere was truly wonderful.
If you want to put into words the thoughts and feelings you’ve carried alone about your photography, or if you’re looking to encounter new perspectives, I highly encourage you to participate at least once.
