The photo poster project is an exhibition of photo posters organized by cizucu and held worldwide, 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 confidently share their own story, and it is also an opportunity to connect in real life with creators from around the globe.

This time, we spoke with the creator ンテ, who participated in the photo poster project.

Please introduce yourself!

On cizucu, I go by ンテ!

I became interested in photography in college, and now I'm so into it that I regularly post my photos on Instagram! I find it fascinating how photographs can take on different expressions depending on perspective, composition, and color palette!

What inspired you to participate?

I had never held or participated in a photography exhibition before, and honestly, I felt it might be too soon for me...

But when I received an invitation from cizucu, I thought, "This is a great opportunity, so why not take the plunge?" and I mustered up the courage to join!

When I actually went, I remember the atmosphere at the gallery was so warm that my initial nerves quickly faded away.

Have you noticed any changes in yourself after participating multiple times?

By taking part in exhibitions, I had the chance to encounter various cameras, approaches to photography, and artistic sensibilities that I didn't possess myself! I feel like my own photographic range has expanded!

Seeing and discussing a variety of works at the gallery made me realize that there isn't just one "right way" to take a photograph.

When I hear about other people's creative processes, I naturally become more aware of my own, and I want to try new things in my next shoot. In this way, my approach to photography is updated little by little each time.

What do you find appealing about the photo poster project?

Since it brings together people who love photography, it becomes a place where you can talk about photography as much as you want—something I didn't have before. There's a wonderful appeal in how photography connects people!

It's rare to have opportunities to talk about photography in everyday life, but with the photo poster project, it feels so natural. Just having the artwork there sparks conversation, and before you know it, you feel like you've become "photography friends"—it's a really comfortable atmosphere. Connecting with people through artwork has made me appreciate the power of photography all over again.

For those considering joining the photo poster project

I've never once regretted participating. On the contrary, I was warmly welcomed, my nerves naturally eased, and by the end, I felt like I'd made new friends through photography!

At the end of the exhibition, you receive a poster to take home, so you can display it in your own space and have a tangible memory—it's a wonderful opportunity!

If you're feeling anxious about joining for the first time, I encourage you to just give it a try. The atmosphere at the gallery is so warm that you don't need to be nervous, and photography naturally becomes a starting point for conversation. Having the poster to take home afterward is a real joy, and every time I see it displayed at home, I remember how glad I am that I participated that day.

photo poster project

The is an exhibition of photo posters that you can join simply by choosing a city and date.

What we call 'ppp' is more than just a photography exhibition. It is a community where anyone can safely share their story, and an opportunity to connect with creators from around the world in real life.

This 'ppp' will be held on Saturday, June 20, at Tramnist Gallery in Chuo-ku, Sapporo!

Participating in the organized by cizucu is very simple.


(1) Choose your exhibition space and date

(2) Easy payment via credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.

(3) Submit your artwork to cizucu to complete your submission


All that's left is to come to the gallery. Many photographers from the local area will also participate, so you may find new photography friends for the future.

Event Overview

[Exhibition Date & Time]
Saturday, June 20, 12:00 ~ 16:00
* Exhibitors must be present at the gallery from 13:30 to 15:30.
* Admission is free for non-exhibitors.

[Exhibitor Schedule on the Day]
12:00 ~ 13:30 Free time
13:30 ~ 14:00 Presentation of exhibited works
14:00 ~ 15:30 Networking
15:30 ~ 16:00 Closing & poster pick-up

[Exhibition Space]
Tramnist Gallery
2F, Tramunist Building, 2-5 Minami 5-jo Nishi 15-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo, Hokkaido
(1 min walk from Shiden "Nishisen 6-jo" stop / 10 min walk from Subway Tozai Line "Nishi 18-chome" station)
https://www.akasaka-atelier.com/tramnist

[Participation Fee]
6,000 JPY (includes A2 print, installation, and gallery fee)
* Admission to the exhibition is free.

[Theme]
"Suki" (What You Love)
Share what moves your heart—breathtaking landscapes, the profile of someone dear, a well-loved stuffed animal, or light streaming through a ticket gate. Let’s share your "suki" with everyone.

Important Notes

Please read the following notes carefully before applying to participate.

• If your participation is confirmed, the participation fee is 6,000 JPY (includes print, installation, and gallery fee). The fee applies even if you do not submit your work or are absent on the day.
• Please submit works that meet the following criteria:
  • File Size Requirements
    • (Recommended) Short side at least 4000 pixels
    • (Required) Short side at least 2000 pixels
  • Vertical works only
  • Single photograph (collages, works with text overlays, or with borders are not accepted)
• To ensure all participants have a positive experience, please read the community guidelines at the time of submission.
• Event documentation will be photographed on the day. Event photos may be published on the website, social media, or in advertisements.
• Those present at the end of the event may take their photo poster home. We are unable to ship posters after the event.

We look forward to your submissions!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I pay the participation fee?
A: After selecting your exhibition space and date, you can pay via credit card, or depending on your device, Apple Pay or Google Pay. Please note that refunds are not available after payment, and the fee applies even if you are absent on the day.

Q: Where do I submit my work?
A: After completing payment, you will be redirected automatically or receive a link via email to submit your work.

Q: Can I take my poster home?
A: You may take your poster home if you are present at the gallery at the end of the event (16:00). We do not offer shipping, so please bring your own bag for the poster.

Q: Can I invite friends to view the exhibition?
A: Absolutely! After receiving your participation confirmation email, feel free to share the event on social media.

Q: I heard I can make business cards. How can I do that?
A: After your participation is confirmed, details will be sent to you by email.

Q: Can I see reports from past events?
A: Please see the articles below for past event reports ⭐️

We walk the same paths and see the same scenery every day. Yet, when the angle of light shifts, when shadows stretch, or when the world is doubled in glass, there are moments when ‘everyday reality’ appears slightly askew.

With this in mind, we are launching a hashtag campaign with #surreal!

Share your creations with #surreal

It’s real, yet somehow unreal. That sensation can be found close at hand, without traveling far. Reflections, shadows, perspective, timing—just a few converging elements can transform the resolution of the world through photography. We look forward to seeing your ‘shifted moments.’

During the hashtag feature period from Thursday, May 7, 2026 to Wednesday, May 13, 2026, we will select several works posted with #surreal and feature them in the cizucu Magazine. We encourage everyone to submit their work.

‘Shifts’ don’t happen in special places—they occur in the everyday.
Today, take a moment to pause and seek out the uncanny in the world around you.

cizucu regularly hosts hashtag campaigns and photo contests to inspire your photographic practice. Register on the app and check out the latest content.

Through interviews with photographers who pursue photographic expression from their own unique perspectives, we delve into the origins of their creativity, their philosophy, and their creative process — delivering fresh inspiration to photographers and photo media around the world.

The origins of creativity, the cherished philosophies and perspectives of Germany-based photographer Ute Mahler — archiving and preserving these in words for our time will surely help sustain one facet of photographic culture for generations to come.

Through these "10 Questions," we explore the process by which her expressions take shape.

Ute Mahler

My background is rooted in the tradition of documentary photography, always searching for the „real“ moment. As a co-founder of OSTKREUZ agency, I’ve spent decades documenting life in Germany and beyond. My approach is characterized by a deep interest in people and their environments, the divisions in society. Whether in my early fashion work or my current long-term projects with Werner Mahler, my goal is to capture the poetic essence of reality.

Instagram : @uwmahler
Photo Credit：©︎ LiaDarjes

Q1. Tell us about the origins of your photography and your current activities.

Images have always been a part of my life. I’ve been taking photos since I was a girl; my father was a photographer and had a big influence on me. I’ve never tried to do anything other than take photos. After studying photography in Leipzig, I worked as a freelance photographer. Alongside the photography that earned me a living, I always had my own personal projects from the very beginning.

During the GDR era, I took fashion photos for the culture and fashion magazine “Sibylle.” After 1990, I was finally able to work as a photojournalist. I did many portraits and photo essays on assignment for “Stern” magazine. In 2008, I stopped doing commercial photography, taught as a professor of photography, and focused entirely on my artistic work. I continue this work intensively today as part of an artists’ collective with Werner Mahler

Q2. What are the most important elements or themes in your work?

I’ve always been interested in people. People as individuals or as part of a group.
I worked on my first major body of work, “Living Together,” for 18 years. Some years more intensely than others. When taking photos, I took my time; I didn’t want people to pose for me, but rather to trust me and move naturally in their surroundings.

I wanted them to eventually forget that I was a photographer and see me as a person. I didn’t stage anything in this series. It would have bored me to impose my ideas on others.

I wanted to discover. I wanted to see how others live, how they move through their spaces, how they interact with one another. That’s what I wanted to capture in my photos. Of course, I did stage things in my fashion photography; it was wonderful to use these two different approaches at the same time.

Q3. How do your works come to life? We’d love to know what goes on behind the creative process — intuition, chance encounters, on-the-spot decisions.

There’s always a subject I’m exploring, one that’s on my mind. When I’m photographing it, I take the time the subject demands and that I need for it. Sometimes it’s a short period, but that’s rather rare.

Most often, it’s long stretches of time that can span years. If something interests me deeply, if I know too little about it, then it can become a subject. I think about whether it’s socially relevant or very personal. Or whether both aspects are present in a single theme. I try to figure out why I want to photograph this particular object, these people, or this subject matter. Then I decide on the aesthetic concept.

And then I start taking pictures. It’s also important to me to leave room for chance; I love being surprised by it. I really like images that are subjective, precise, and yet don’t reveal everything. The ones that still hold a secret.

Q4. What drives you to keep creating?

There is still so much to discover. To see. I am curious, and I love being a photographer. Photos are records of experiences. Of life. When I look at my photos, I read them as if they were a diary. I read my life.

Even when I take a portrait of a stranger, a part of me is in it. I also love telling stories. That’s why it’s important to me to present my photos in exhibitions and in books. To arrange the photos in a sequence and create a dialogue between them, thereby telling my story even more vividly.

Q5. Please share one of your favorite shots. We’d also love to hear the story behind it and why you chose it.

It’s almost impossible for me to answer the question about my favorite photo. I love all the pictures I’ve ever selected and enlarged in the darkroom. Even if not all of them are equally strong. Or equally important. Analog photography is my field of work. I still remember the encounter or the event behind every single picture. Perhaps also because the process in the lab is so arduous, the chemical fumes are annoying, and then there’s always that darkness.

But if I had to choose just one photo, it would be the one with the four circus children. I’ve looked at it countless times, printed it, retouched the baryta print by hand. Yet there’s still that power, the presence of the children, the wonderful shades of gray, and for me it still holds that magic I felt back in 1973 when I photographed the group.

Q6. In the age of AI, what do you think photography means?

I believe that entire fields of work will be taken over by AI, particularly technical and routine processes. Art, however, is created by artists—by individuals, by people who think and feel and who bring their own experiences to their art. Subjectivity is the great opportunity.

Q7. Within the German scene, what movements or communities do you feel are particularly significant?

When people talk about German photography, they think of August Sander, Bernd and Hilla Becher, Andreas Gursky, and other world-renowned artists.
They think of both documentary and artistic photography. Many of these artists have focused on working in series. At the same time, however, there are exceptionally talented photographers working in journalism or applied fields.

Major art museums exhibit photography; it is recognized as an essential part of art. In Berlin, C/O Berlin is particularly worth mentioning. This exhibition space regularly showcases the world’s leading photographers. Alongside this, new talents and trends are presented in a well-balanced mix. Surprisingly high visitor numbers attest to a very strong interest in the medium.

Q8. Are there photographers or creative scenes from other countries that inspire or excite you?

Good photography inspires me. Throughout my life, there have always been works by colleagues that have captivated me—because they had their own unique perspective on their subjects and expressed it in a stunningly aesthetic way.

I’ve never had just one great hero. It’s always the images and their intensity that stay with me. In the different phases of my life, I’ve been open to various photographic works. That has to do with my own world, with the thoughts and feelings I’ve had at different times in my life.

But what will always remain is my admiration and reverence for works like these: Exiles by Josef Koudelka or Chris Kilipp’s In Flagrante. When I first saw Masahisa Fukase’s book Ravens, it blew me away. Such a force of emotion and metaphor. A great work. For me, that book is still the best photo book of all time.

Q9. Tell us about something you would dedicate your life to pursuing.

My family is the most important thing in my life. And curiosity. To remain open to everything.

Q10. What message would you like to share with creators around the world, from where you stand today?

What an important question. I can think of a very simple answer to that. Keep believing in photography.

Photographers who are passionate about their craft share the stories behind their cameras. The presence of a 'beloved camera' reflects each creator’s worldview and values. In this installment, we feature umai_gohan, who is devoted to the SONY FE 85mm F1.8.

When I began to feel a disconnect with the freedom of zoom lenses, photography shifted from being an act of 'choice' to one of 'hesitation.' Even though I should have been able to find the perfect distance on the spot, it felt as if the subject was receding further and further in the viewfinder. Why choose to frame at this distance? 'If indecision is the problem, then reduce the options.' That realization led me to a single prime lens.

By facing the quiet subject of ruins, I explore the tension and sincerity brought by the 85mm focal length, and the sense of returning to my roots.

SONY FE 85mm F1.8 | Key Features

The SONY FE 85mm F1.8 is a medium-telephoto prime lens compatible with Sony E-mount cameras. Highly regarded for portraiture, it is characterized by its beautiful bokeh at a wide-open F1.8 aperture and a well-balanced sharp resolution.
Despite its lightweight design, it offers excellent rendering performance, embodying the quintessential '85mm look' that allows photographers to capture subjects naturally. It is a lens widely supported by many photographers.

The Decision to Reduce Options

When I first started photography, I used the kit zoom lens. Zoom lenses are convenient and allow you to freely adjust your composition on the spot. However, over time, that freedom became a burden for me.

Having too many options delayed my decision-making and interrupted the flow of shooting. Even when I was in the right mindset, hesitation would creep in. That was the moment I realized that, for me, photography is closer to an act of 'subtraction.'

'If indecision is the problem, then reduce the options.'

That was the thinking that led me to choose the SONY FE 85mm F1.8.

Ruins as Fragments of Time

Generally, ruin photography is often shot with wide-angle lenses to create a sense of impact. For me, however, ruins are traces of past lives—a journey through time.

I feel that the SONY FE 85mm F1.8 is a lens that demands responsibility in framing. If you frame carelessly, that carelessness is reflected in the photograph. But if you approach the subject sincerely, only its essence remains quietly at the center of the image.

Empty bottles left on the ground, or a pot quietly abandoned. Within these overlooked objects, time undoubtedly remains. The subtle presence they exude is best captured at the 85mm focal length.

85mm as a Return to Origins

The SONY FE 85mm F1.8 reveals worlds that no one else notices. Depending on how you use it, there are moments when subjects that would have been passed by regain their brilliance.

It's not about increasing options, but about paring them down to see what emerges. The SONY FE 85mm F1.8 is a lens that reminds me of my origins.

I hope to continue capturing these quiet fragments of time with this one lens.

umai_gohan

Shoots primarily ruins, street scenes, and zoos.
With a focus on prime lenses, emphasizes 'subtractive' composition and capturing the density of time through instinctive decisions in the moment.
Equipment choices are intentionally selective and tailored to specific intentions.

cizucu: umai_gohan
Threads: @umai_gohan___

When taking photographs, many people unconsciously ask themselves, “Is this right?” However, unlike mathematics, photography does not have a single correct answer. What truly matters is the personal sense of “what feels right to me.”

This time, we take a step back from that mindset and seek hints for transforming uncertainty itself into creative energy.

Breaking Free from the Need for Correctness and Reframing Your Perspective

The assumption that “a good photograph equals a correct photograph” can unknowingly narrow your expressive range. For example, if following the rule of thirds or the golden ratio becomes the goal, your perspective may become uniform and you risk missing out on the serendipity of chance.

The key here is cultivating the ability to notice “discrepancies.” Making the edge of the frame—not the center—the protagonist, intentionally leaving the focus soft to capture atmosphere, or treating backlighting and blown highlights not as “mistakes” but as intentional choices. These decisions, which stray slightly from the so-called correct answer, can open up new ways of seeing.

What matters more than technical skill is the attitude of “testing” rather than “correcting” the sense of discomfort that arises within you. That discomfort can become the gateway to your next form of expression.

Photographing the Same Place with a Different Eye

You don’t need a special camera—your smartphone is more than enough to broaden your means of expression. A recommended exercise is to limit yourself to “just 10 shots in the same place,” each from a different perspective. Try shooting from a low angle, a high angle, moving closer, stepping back, or incorporating reflections—the more you change the conditions, the more you discover.

Next, try intentionally adjusting the brightness to extremes. Make it dark to leave only outlines, or brighten it to strip away information. You’ll begin to sense the shift from photography as “documentation” to “interpretation.”

What’s important is not choosing “which is the right shot” after you’ve taken them, but rather having a hypothesis while shooting—“How will it look if I do this?” The act of continual experimentation itself becomes your creative process, rather than searching for the right answer.

Expression Grows in Community and the Circulation of Works

When you shoot alone, your perspective and criteria for judgment tend to become fixed. That’s why it’s important to share your work with others. What you gain from social media or creative communities is not the number of likes, but rather “ways of seeing different from your own.”

Other people’s feedback is not a correct answer, but a source of insight. When someone puts into words the meaning of a composition you weren’t consciously aware of, or the appeal that arose by chance, your work becomes not a “finished product” but “material for what comes next.”

Photography is not something that ends with the individual; it is an expressive practice that evolves through interaction with others.

photo poster project

The is a photography poster exhibition that you can join simply by selecting your city and date.

What we call ppp is more than just a photography exhibition. It is a community where everyone can safely share their stories and an opportunity to connect with creators from around the world in real life.

This May 31 (Sunday), ppp will be held at Cafe & Gallery Node in Ibaraki, Osaka!

Participating in the organized by cizucu is very simple.


(1) Choose your exhibition space and date

(2) Easy payment via credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.

(3) Submit your artwork to cizucu to complete your submission


All that's left is to come to the gallery. Many photographers from the local area will also participate, so you may find future collaborators or friends in photography.

Event Overview

[Exhibition Date & Time]
May 31 (Sunday) 12:00 ~ 16:00
* Exhibitors must be present at the venue from 13:30 to 15:30.
* Admission is free for all non-exhibitors.

[Exhibitor Schedule on the Day]
12:00 ~ 13:30 Free time
13:30 ~ 14:00 Artwork presentations
14:00 ~ 15:30 Networking
15:30 ~ 16:00 Closing & poster pick-up

[Exhibition Space]
Cafe & Gallery Node
1-8-2 Kasuga, Ibaraki-shi, Osaka, 2F
(4 min walk from JR "Ibaraki Station", 8 min by bus or 18 min walk from Hankyu "Ibaraki-shi Station", 20 min walk from Osaka Monorail "Unobe Station")
https://www.node-g.com/

[Participation Fee]
6,000 JPY (includes A2 print, installation, and gallery fee)
* Viewing the exhibition and admission are free.

[Theme]
"No theme / Free subject"
There is no set theme, so you can participate with any type of photography—portrait, snapshot, landscape, or any other genre. Whether it's a photo with a story you want to share, or simply an image that captivates you for no particular reason, we look forward to seeing your unique work.

Important Notes

Please read the following notes carefully before applying to participate.

• The participation fee includes printing, installation, and gallery costs. Please note that the fee is non-refundable even if you do not submit your artwork or are absent on the day of the event.
• Please submit artwork that meets the following requirements:
  • File size specifications
    • (Recommended) Short side 4000 pixels or more
    • (Required) Short side 2000 pixels or more
  • Vertical format only
  • Single image only (collages, images with text, or works with borders are not accepted)
• To ensure a positive experience for all participants, please read the community guidelines at the time of submission.
• Event photos will be taken on the day. Images from the event may be published on our website, social media, or in promotional materials.
• Participants present at the end of the event may take their photo poster home. We are unable to ship posters after the event.

We look forward to receiving your submissions!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I pay the participation fee?
A: After selecting your exhibition space and date, you can pay by credit card or, depending on your device, with Apple Pay or Google Pay. Please note that payments are non-refundable, and the participation fee applies even if you are absent on the day.

Q: Where do I submit my artwork?
A: After your payment is complete, you will be automatically redirected or receive a link via email to submit your work.

Q: Can I take my poster home?
A: You may take your poster home if you are present at the venue at the end of the event (16:00). Please note that we do not offer shipping. Also, please bring your own bag for the poster.

Q: Can I invite friends to see the exhibition?
A: Absolutely! Once you receive your participation confirmation email, feel free to share the event on social media.

Q: I heard I can make business cards—how does that work?
A: After your participation is confirmed, we will send you details via email.

Q: Can I apply even if I haven't decided on my photo yet?
A: Yes, you can. Some sessions may sell out before the deadline, so we recommend applying first and submitting your artwork by the deadline.

Q: Can I see reports from past events?
A: Please check the articles below for past event reports ⭐️

The is organized by cizucu and held across the globe. By simply submitting your photographs to cizucu, you can participate in the photo poster project exhibition and connect with fellow photographers you have yet to meet.

The is run together with volunteer staff from around the world. Each staff member, coming from diverse backgrounds, brings their own perspective and passion to help shape this platform. For this feature, we spoke with Nacskey, a creator who is an active member of the team.

Please introduce yourself!

In my day-to-day work, I am an IT consultant, leading projects in financial accounting and supply chain management for corporate clients.

At the same time, I always carry my camera during commutes and travels, capturing the presence of people working in the city and the atmosphere that drifts through the streets. I am constantly searching for those moments in the rush of everyday life that make you want to pause and take notice.

What was your impression when you first participated in ppp as a participant?

I was nervous at first. I usually walk around the city photographing alone, and rarely have the opportunity to discuss my work with others.

However, once I participated, I found an atmosphere where people of different photographic genres, ages, and backgrounds naturally connected through photography. It felt like a space where not only the artwork itself, but also the reasons behind why a photograph was taken, were genuinely received. I am truly glad I took part.

What do you think is the unique appeal of ppp from your perspective as a staff member?

I believe the greatest appeal is that it is not just a place to display photographs, but a space that embraces each person's perspective and background.

Even a single image that might be overlooked on social media is given the space to be truly seen here. Moreover, the way people naturally connect through photography is where I feel the unique warmth and strength of the .

As a staff member, what is something you personally value most?

I place great importance on creating an atmosphere where participants feel comfortable sharing.

I believe that a photograph can reveal a person's sensibility, how they spend their time, and even how they relate to others. That's why I want this to be a space that can embrace even those things that can't yet be put into words. I am mindful of engaging in a way that allows each photograph and personality to come through naturally.

What do you find most rewarding about supporting ppp?

It is witnessing the moments when conversations between people who have just met begin to deepen, sparked by photography.

While taking photographs can be a personal pursuit, sharing them can connect with someone else's memories or emotions. Supporting the flow of these moments and seeing firsthand how photography brings people together is deeply rewarding for me.

Have you had any particularly memorable experiences so far?

During a gallery talk, there was a moment when hearing the background behind a particular photograph completely changed how I saw it.

A photo that initially seemed quiet suddenly took on new depth once I learned about the creator's time and emotions. While a photograph can stand on its own, when words are added, it can convey the contours of the person behind it. It was a powerful and memorable experience that made me keenly aware of this potential.

Thank you for the many submissions to the recent hashtag campaign #bokeh.

Bokeh not only enhances the subject, but also quietly shapes the sense of distance and atmosphere, influencing the overall tone of the photograph. This campaign saw a wide range of expressions, from decisions about dissolving or retaining contours, to the rendering of point light sources and the layering of foreground and background.

From among the works submitted for this campaign, we are featuring several selected pieces.

Editor’s Choice #bokeh

PAPALIN

cizucu Editorial Team
By carefully balancing the volume of soft bokeh, the presence of the main subject is naturally elevated in this work. The contours are not overly dissolved, leaving only the necessary information, which creates a pleasing equilibrium and captures the atmosphere of the entire frame. The starting and ending points of the gaze remain steady, imparting a quiet strength to the image.

kazkaz

📷 SIGMA fp

cizucu Editorial Team
This work skillfully controls the allure of 'ball bokeh'—the sparkling points of light—within the composition. Even with a visually rich background, the gradation of bokeh remains intact, guiding the viewer’s gaze naturally back to the subject. The balance between vibrancy and clarity is beautifully maintained, resulting in a harmonious rhythm across the frame.

iNo

📷 SONY α7R II

cizucu Editorial Team
The layered bokeh in the foreground and background creates a striking sense of depth in this image. The subject is rendered with just enough 'core' to retain clarity, ensuring that the softness does not dilute the information. The careful depiction of spatial relationships naturally preserves the dimensionality of the frame.

Thomas_J

📷 RICOH GR III

cizucu Editorial Team
Amid the signature sharpness of the GR, the background is beautifully diffused. The bokeh organizes the composition, while essential details are carefully preserved, allowing an everyday scene to quietly emerge. The precise interplay between crispness and softness elegantly guides the viewer’s gaze.

In Closing

We hope you enjoyed this feature.
Bokeh not only enhances the subject, but also brings 'negative space' and 'temperature' to a photograph. Next time you press the shutter, consider what to keep sharp and what to gently dissolve. Construct your frame from these choices. The way you handle background light or foreground overlays can dramatically transform the atmosphere of your image.

cizucu regularly hosts hashtag campaigns and photo contests to inspire your photographic practice. Register on the app to check out the latest content.

photo poster project

The photo poster project is an exhibition where anyone can participate simply by selecting a city and date.

What we call the ppp is more than just a photography exhibition. It is a community where everyone can safely share their stories, and a unique opportunity to connect with creators from around the world in real life.

This time, we present a report on the photo poster project held at The Shophouse 1527 in Samyan, Bangkok, on April 18 (Sat) and 19 (Sun). If you are interested in joining future editions of the photo poster project across the country, this is a must-read!

What is the photo poster project?

Opportunities to exhibit your own photography or to make friends with other photographers are not always easy to come by. Organizing a solo exhibition can be both time-consuming and costly.

The photo poster project, organized by cizucu, addresses these challenges.
Simply choose a location and date, and submit your photographs to cizucu to have your work exhibited in large A2 format. Many photographers from the same area also participate, so you might find future collaborators or friends.

There is no need for the hassle of renting a gallery, finding a printer, or setting up the exhibition. Just fill out the form and join the event on-site!

Event Highlights

Photography is, by nature, a quiet medium. Yet there are images in which sound seems to arise: the flow of water, trees swaying in the wind, the murmur of people, the distant presence of a passing train.
Even if sound itself cannot be captured, the moment just before it emerges or the traces left after it fades can be preserved in a single frame.

This feature delves into the theme of 'photographs that capture sound,' exploring how to evoke auditory imagination within still images through movement, negative space, light, and composition.

Sound Lingers in the Midst of Movement

Photographs that evoke sound often contain a 'memory of movement.' The instant a wave crashes, just after a bird takes flight, or the split second a raindrop bounces off the ground. Rather than freezing the scene completely, leaving a slight blur introduces a sense of time flowing within the frame.

A fast shutter speed can express the sharpness of a sound, while a slower shutter speed conveys its continuity. The sound of water may appear as a smooth line, while the bustle of a city emerges as silhouettes or trails of light. To photograph sound is to translate the rhythm heard by the ear into a visual rhythm.

Even Stillness Has the Contour of Sound

Photographs that capture sound are not limited to lively scenes. The tense air of a winter morning, an empty train platform, or the depths of a forest where the wind has stilled—all contain the sound of silence.

The key is to leave 'room to listen' within the frame.

By allowing for generous negative space and placing the subject small within the composition, viewers begin to imagine the atmosphere present. In scenes where light diffuses softly, sound seems to recede into the distance. Conversely, strong light or hard shadows evoke the sharpness or dryness of sound.

Let What You Hear Guide Your Composition

When shooting, try first putting into words what you hear in the location. Once you identify the impression of the sound—whether it’s a gentle rustle, a bustling murmur, a steady tapping, or profound silence—it will influence your approach to composition.
For example, with the babble of a stream, compose so the viewer’s gaze follows the flow; for urban noise, capture the overlapping of people and vehicles.

With a smartphone, use burst mode to capture the peak of movement; with a camera, experiment with different shutter speeds to compare the qualities of sound you can convey. The first step to infusing sound into a photograph is to listen carefully before pressing the shutter.

The photo poster project, organized by cizucu and held in cities worldwide, is an exhibition of photo posters that anyone can join simply by selecting a city and date.

What we call the ppp is more than just a photography exhibition. It is a community where everyone can confidently share their own stories, and a unique opportunity to connect with creators from across the globe in real life.

This time, we spoke with the creator Ryo, who participated in the photo poster project.

Please introduce yourself!

My name is Ryo Suzuki, and I am engaged in photography in Fukushima.

On a daily basis, I capture the landscapes and everyday life of Fukushima as a hobby, and professionally, I photograph people.

What inspired you to participate?

I was invited by a member of the staff.

At first, I was anxious because I had never participated in an exhibition like this before and didn’t know what to expect, but the staff’s approach was extremely thoughtful, and their passion for the event came through, which convinced me to take part.

Honestly, I was initially "anxious because it was my first time and I didn’t know what to expect."
However, the staff’s truly attentive communication and the way their enthusiasm for the event came across made me feel, "This might be the right place for me," which was a decisive factor.

How was your experience participating?

First of all, I was deeply impressed by how considerate the staff were and how much effort they put into creating a welcoming atmosphere!

Also, all the other exhibitors were genuinely kind and wonderful, and I felt that this ideal environment was made possible by the vision behind the photo poster project.

Thanks to everyone, it turned out to be a truly fulfilling day! Thank you so much!

Throughout my time at the exhibition space, I felt warmly welcomed. It made me realize once again that this is what a truly comfortable atmosphere means to me.

Why did you choose that particular photograph?

I selected a vertical photograph I took that I felt would brighten up the space the most!

For me, this was the one photograph that made me feel, "With this image, I might be able to brighten up the space a little." I wanted to choose a work that, when displayed on the wall as part of the exhibition, would gently lighten the atmosphere of the room.

To those considering participating in the photo poster project

I can guarantee it will be a fun and fulfilling day!
If you are on the fence, I strongly encourage you to participate!!

I myself was hesitant at first, but looking back, I can say without a doubt that I’m glad I joined.
If you’re unsure, I hope you’ll take that first step!

photo poster project

The is an exhibition of photo posters where you can participate simply by choosing a city and date.

This project, which we call ppp, is more than just a photography exhibition. It is a community where everyone can safely share their stories, and an opportunity to connect with creators from around the world in real life.

This time, ppp will be held on Saturday, June 20, at GALLERY METABO in Marutamachi, Kyoto!

Participating in the organized by cizucu is very simple.


(1) Choose the exhibition space and date

(2) Easy payment via credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.

(3) Submit your work to cizucu to complete your submission


All that's left is to come to the gallery. Many photographers from the same area will also participate, so you may find future creative collaborators.

Event Overview

[Exhibition Date & Time]
Saturday, June 20, 12:00 ~ 16:00
* Exhibiting artists are required to be present at the gallery from 13:30 to 15:30.
* Admission is free for all visitors except exhibiting artists.

[Schedule for Exhibiting Artists]
12:00 ~ 13:30 Free time
13:30 ~ 14:00 Presentation of works
14:00 ~ 15:30 Networking
15:30 ~ 16:00 Closing & poster pickup

[Exhibition Space]
GALLERY METABO
18 Metabo Okazaki, Shogoin Sanno-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
(9-minute walk from Exit 4 of Keihan Railway "Jingu-Marutamachi" Station / 18-minute walk from Exit 1 of Subway Tozai Line "Higashiyama" Station)
https://www.gallery-metabo.com/

[Participation Fee]
6,000 JPY (includes A2 print, installation, and gallery fee)
* Admission to the exhibition is free.

[Theme]
"Suki" (What You Love)
Share what moves your heart—breathtaking landscapes, the profile of someone important, a well-loved stuffed animal, or the light streaming through a ticket gate. Let’s share your "suki" with everyone.

Important Notes

Please read the following notes carefully before applying to participate.

• The participation fee includes printing, installation, and gallery costs. Please note that the fee is non-refundable even if you do not submit your work or are absent on the day of the event.
• Please ensure your submission meets the following requirements:
  • File Size Guidelines
    • (Recommended) Short side at least 4000 pixels
    • (Required) Short side at least 2000 pixels
  • Vertical format only
  • Single photograph only (collages, works with text overlays, or with borders are not accepted)
• To ensure a positive experience for all participants, please read the community guidelines at the time of submission.
• The event will be photographed. Images from the event may be published on our website, social media, or in promotional materials.
• Participants present at the end of the event may take their photo poster home. Please note that we do not offer shipping after the event.

We look forward to your submissions!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I pay the participation fee?
A: After selecting the exhibition space and date, you can pay by credit card or, depending on your device, via Apple Pay or Google Pay. Please note that payments are non-refundable, and the participation fee is required even if you are absent on the day.

Q: Where do I submit my work?
A: After completing your payment, you will be redirected automatically or receive a link via email to submit your work.

Q: Can I take my poster home?
A: You may take your poster home by being present at the gallery at the end of the event (16:00). Please note that we do not offer shipping. Please bring your own bag for carrying your poster.

Q: Can I invite friends to see the exhibition?
A: Absolutely! After receiving your participation confirmation email, feel free to share the event on social media.

Q: I heard I can create business cards. How can I do that?
A: After your participation is confirmed, we will send you details via email.

Q: Can I apply even if I haven't decided on my photo yet?
A: Yes, you can. Some sessions may sell out before the deadline, so we recommend applying first and submitting your work by the deadline.

Q: Can I see past events?
A: Please check the articles below for past event reports ⭐️

In 'Read Your Photography,' we focus on the stories behind photographs—narratives that cannot be encountered by simply looking. Alongside works gathered through the cizucu-hosted and social media, cizucu Magazine translates the backgrounds and unique moments behind each image into 12 languages, sharing them with the world.

Keeping a story close to your heart is one choice. Yet, those feelings may quietly touch someone else and inspire new emotions yet to be discovered.

This time, we introduce the works of five artists from around the globe.
Now, let us gently peek into these one-of-a-kind stories.

lloo.ooll.wander’s Story

lloo.ooll.wander

📷 Canon EOS R8
📚 01

Nature is a quiet refuge for us—a place to restore, recalibrate, and return to our essence. Each time we venture out, we encounter unexpected, striking moments that linger in our hearts. That is why we return again and again. Hiking, cycling, and capturing the whispers of light have become a weekly ritual, a rhythm that persists no matter the challenges.

cizucu Editorial Team
A single path winding gently through undulating terrain seems to visualize the very flow of time. The small figures of people walking, contrasted against the vastness of nature, remind us that we are part of this landscape. In the repetition of these visits, the subtle changes in light and wind accumulate, quietly imparting a sense of resilience to everyday life—an impression beautifully conveyed in this image.

Peter Lin’s Story

Peter Lin

📷 FUJIFILM X-S20
📚 02

This photograph was taken on a beautiful afternoon last June.
I was strolling around the art museum and saw a teacher and a child practicing skateboarding.
The child struggled to master a particular move, but the teacher patiently supported and encouraged them, helping them up each time they fell.
After many failed attempts, this photo captures the moment the child finally succeeded, standing steadily on the skateboard—no longer needing the teacher's assistance.

cizucu Editorial Team
This image, captured in the gentle afternoon light, quietly inscribes a moment of small achievement within an ordinary scene. The accumulation of repeated failures and the unwavering support culminate in the child's newfound independence. The subtle shift in distance between the two within the open space hints at a tangible step in growth, beautifully narrating a story of progress.

icehua’s Story

icehua

📚 03

The garden in front of my family home’s gate is almost a public space—relatives, friends, and even delivery people come and go freely. Over time, plants, old objects, and elders’ farming tools have accumulated here, along with layers of family memories.

I loved the spaciousness, openness, liveliness, and greenery of the garden in front of our gate. This space brimmed with vitality, but gradually became cluttered over the years. As someone who once lived there, I felt frustrated and tried to tidy it up, but as the youngest, I had little say and couldn’t keep it up, so in the end, things remained unresolved.

After leaving home, this space became out of reach, yet memories of it often return, intertwined with the time spent with my family. Having left, I feel as if a part of my roots has been severed, but those fragmented memories continue to nourish me.

cizucu Editorial Team
This image, where inside and outside, present and past, overlap, quietly visualizes the ambiguous yet certain presence of memory. The gaze of the figure and the scenery reflected through the glass intersect, bringing together personal introspection, family time, and the memories accumulated in the place. Even the unresolved feelings and sense of distance seep into the frame, delicately illustrating the enduring nature of connection, even from afar.

Ber0225’s Story

Ber0225

📚 04

In that moment when Victoria Harbour was shrouded in fog, I saw a young man standing alone by the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. His back was calm, almost focused. He gazed out at the harbor, deeply veiled in thick mist.

The white fog was dense, and the sea breeze carried moist, chilly air. The towering skyscrapers were reduced to faint outlines; the glass buildings of Central, CITIC Tower, and the International Finance Centre seemed to have sunk into a sea of clouds, the city temporarily losing its contours. All that remained were the gentle ripples on the water and a single traditional Chinese junk slowly moving in the distance.

The junk’s red sails faintly emerged from the mist, its hull rustic, and colorful flags fluttered in the wind. Unlike the bustle of modern cruise ships, it exuded a timeless tranquility and calm. The ripples trailing behind the stern spread out in layers, quietly linking Hong Kong’s past and present.

The young man simply watched the junk, seemingly forgetting everything around him. His back evoked memories shared by many in Hong Kong—being ferried across the harbor as a child, hearing stories of how this sea once thrived with junks. That simple, unhurried way of life was once the city’s natural rhythm.

The dazzling financial city before us was veiled in mist, leaving only faint shadows. In contrast, the old junk stood out with a tangible presence amid the white fog. The young man’s gaze seemed to speak of a realization deep within: no matter how dazzling or fast the city changes, people’s hearts continue to seek the warmth and tranquility of the past.

Soon, the junk receded and disappeared into the mist. Yet the young man remained, standing motionless for a long time. I pressed the shutter, capturing this moment. It was the quietest dialogue between him and the city, and at the same time, between myself and the city. It felt as if I had stepped into a dream of the past.

cizucu Editorial Team
The contours of a city shrouded in dense fog, a quietly standing figure, and a slowly moving junk—all these contrasts layer time within this image. The fog, which blurs vision, instead brings memories and emotions to the surface, evoking a sense of intersection between past and present. In this moment when the city’s bustle is momentarily silenced, the individual’s inner world and the city’s history resonate quietly, leaving viewers with a profound sense of space and room for imagination.

shatta_life’s Story

shatta_life

📚 05

In the streets of Taiwan, every time I visit a lively place, I see a familiar figure—firmly holding a bunch of balloons. These balloons are never expensive, but they always make children stop in their tracks. For children, they are gifts within reach, but for him, perhaps they are simply a means of making a living.

In terms of composition, I shot from below, filling the background with balloons—as if returning to the world I saw as a child. Yet, to him, I am no longer someone who stops, and his gaze no longer lingers for me. The balloons floating in the sky should be light, yet they are continually drawn by various purposes.

cizucu Editorial Team
The contrast between the balloons that should float lightly and the weight of the person who gathers them for a living quietly stands out in this monochrome frame. The upward perspective evokes the longing and unattainability once felt as a child, while the reality is that our gazes have already passed each other by. This moment, where the worlds of children and adults intersect, quietly depicts a slice of urban life where innocent desires and the realities of daily existence coexist.

In Closing

How did you find these stories?

We want to focus on the allure that cannot be fully conveyed through visuals alone. 'Read Your Photography' is a project designed to explore the thoughts and emotions behind photographs and to receive them as stories.

What is captured is just a fleeting moment. Yet behind it, there is time that has flowed continuously and emotions that have never been put into words.

We invite you to savor these stories as if reading a photograph, as if turning the pages of a book.

How to join

On cizucu’s , a spontaneous “photography theme” is posted from time to time.
Simply reply with “your photograph” that fits the theme.

The only requirement is to follow cizucu’s social media 💙
From among the submitted works,
those selected will receive a message from the cizucu editorial team!

In 'Read Your Photography,' we also feature works exhibited in the cizucu-hosted .

The ppp may be held in your country as well. Encounters connected simply by a love of photography are now spreading across the globe.

Constraints are not shackles for creativity; rather, they are opportunities to draw out new ideas. In the field, the limitations of equipment or environment are often spoken of as 'restrictions,' but in reality, these very boundaries sharpen our perspective.

This time, we focus on the approach of intentionally constructing 'inevitability' rather than leaving things to chance or circumstance.

How Lens Constraints Deepen Observation

With a prime lens, where the focal length is fixed and zooming is not an option, you must 'move yourself to compose the frame.' This is more than a technical operation—it's an experience that transforms your perception of space.

By being conscious of the exaggerated sense of distance with wide-angle lenses or the compressed density with telephoto lenses, you can evoke entirely different narratives from the same scene.

Moreover, you develop an attitude of 're-examining' rather than merely 'searching' for subjects. You become more attuned to the structures and rhythms hidden in everyday life, and with fewer options, your decision-making becomes more decisive.

How Limited Conditions Cultivate Artistic Vision

The more restricted your shooting conditions, the greater the emphasis on post-processing and compositional skills. Subtle differences in exposure, the way shadows fall, and the placement of subjects—all these small elements can dramatically influence the impression of your work.

Furthermore, when you continue shooting as a series, constraints become 'rules,' fostering consistency in your expression. For example, 'shooting for a week with the same focal length' or 'working exclusively with natural light' are practices that transform technical limitations into creative frameworks.

Limited conditions are not simply obstacles—they begin to function as the core of your artistic expression.

Artworks Grow When Shared

As you continue creating, your perspective and criteria for judgment can easily become fixed. That is why sharing your work with others is essential. On social media or within communities, what you receive is more than just the number of reactions—it's the opportunity to see your work through different eyes.

Feedback from others is not about right or wrong, but about offering new perspectives. When someone articulates the meaning of a composition you had overlooked, or highlights the serendipity in your work, your artwork becomes not a 'finished product,' but 'material for what comes next.'

Photography is not a solitary pursuit; it is an evolving form of expression shaped through dialogue with others.

photo poster project

The is a poster exhibition where you can participate simply by choosing your city and date.

What we call 'ppp' is more than just a photography exhibition. It is a community where everyone can safely share their stories, and an opportunity to connect with creators from around the world in real life.

This time, ppp will be held on Sunday, June 21, at The Shophouse 1527 in Samyan, Bangkok!

Participating in the organized by cizucu is very simple.


(1) Select the exhibition space and date

(2) Easy payment via credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.

(3) Submit your work to cizucu to complete your submission


All that's left is to come to the gallery. Many photographers from the local area will also participate, so you may find new friends who share your passion for photography.

Event Overview

[Exhibition Date & Time]
June 21 (Sun) 12:00 ~ 16:00
* Exhibitors are required to be present at the gallery from 13:30 to 15:30.
* Admission is free for non-exhibitors.

[Exhibitor Schedule]
12:00 ~ 13:30 Free time
13:30 ~ 14:00 Presentation of works
14:00 ~ 15:30 Networking
15:30 ~ 16:00 Closing & poster pick-up

[Exhibition Space]
The Shophouse 1527
1527 Rama IV Rd, Wang Mai, Pathum Wan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand
(4 minutes on foot from Samyan Station, MRT Blue Line)
https://maps.app.goo.gl/kW7GCGcJaWWvMoYbA

[Participation Fee]
1,200 Baht (includes A2 print, installation, and venue fee)
* Admission to the exhibition is free.

[Theme]
"Suki" (What You Love)
Share what moves your heart—breathtaking landscapes, the profile of someone important, a well-loved stuffed animal, or the light streaming through a ticket gate. Let’s share your "suki" with everyone.

Important Notes

Please read the following notes carefully before applying to participate.

• The participation fee includes printing, installation, and venue costs. Please note that the fee is non-refundable even if you do not submit your work or are absent on the day of the event.
• Please ensure your submission meets the following requirements:
  • File Size Requirements
    • (Recommended) Minimum 4000 pixels on the short side
    • (Required) Minimum 2000 pixels on the short side
  • Vertical works only
  • Single photograph only (collages, works with text overlays, or frames are not accepted)
• To ensure a positive experience for all participants, please read the community guidelines at the time of submission.
• Event photography will be conducted on the day. Images from the event may be published on our website, social media, or in promotional materials.
• Participants present at the end of the event may take their photo poster home. We are unable to provide shipping after the event.

We look forward to your submissions!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I pay the participation fee?
A: After selecting the exhibition space and date, you can pay by credit card or, depending on your device, Apple Pay or Google Pay. Please note that payments are non-refundable, and the participation fee is required even if you are absent on the day.

Q: Where do I submit my work?
A: After completing your payment, you will be automatically redirected or receive a link via email to submit your work.

Q: Can I take my poster home?
A: Yes, you may take your poster home if you are present at the gallery at the end of the event (16:00). Please note that we do not offer shipping. Also, please bring your own bag for the poster.

Q: Can I invite friends to view the exhibition?
A: Absolutely! Once your participation is confirmed, feel free to share the event on social media.

Q: I heard I can make business cards. How can I do that?
A: After your participation is confirmed, we will send you details via email.

Q: Can I apply even if I haven't decided on my photograph yet?
A: Yes, you can. Some sessions may sell out before the deadline, so we recommend applying first and submitting your work by the deadline.

Q: Can I see reports from past events?
A: Please see the articles below for more information.⭐️

Threads, a text-centric social media platform provided by Meta, sees countless creative expressions posted daily from across the globe.

‘find new pieces’ is a discovery project that uncovers outstanding works from the multitude of submissions posted on Threads, delivering their allure through our magazine. Each edition sets a theme and gathers works from around the world that resonate with it, providing opportunities to encounter yet-unknown talents (new pieces).

How to join

On cizucu’s Threads, a spontaneous “photography theme” is posted.
Simply reply with “your own shot” that fits the theme.

The only requirement to participate is to follow cizucu’s social media accounts 💙
From among the submitted works,
those selected will receive a message from the cizucu editorial team!

This time, from the multitude of submissions received from around the world, we present 13 works.
Let us now explore these remarkable pieces, each alive with unique perspectives and sensibilities.

'door'

A door is not merely a boundary.
It can both close and open,
and beyond it, unknown times and presences unfold.

Traces of someone’s passage,
a sudden shaft of light,
a slightly ajar gap.

There, unseen stories quietly seep through.

Some doors are simply passed by,
while others make us pause.

What did you feel as you stood before it?

Show us the moment born between you and a single “door” somewhere in the world.

new pieces

Plini Wu

📷 NIKON Z50II
💙 01

cizucu Editorial Team
Within the tranquility of mint green, this image—composed solely of light and shadow—borders on abstraction. The shadows cast by the two knobs and keyhole seem to outline another invisible door, drawing the viewer’s gaze. Rather than simply photographing a door, the artist’s sharp perspective captures the light inhabiting the door itself. Despite the ample negative space, there is no sense of suffocation. It is a work that seems to distill silence itself into the photograph, leaving a profound aftertaste.

Valley

📷 APPLE iPhone 15
💙 02

cizucu Editorial Team
In the darkness of midnight, a single light illuminates a red door as if it were a stage. The tension between the greenish light and the red, the yellowish reflections on the ground, and the inorganic pipes and manholes—all evoke the unique atmosphere of a city’s hidden side. There is a sense that someone has just passed through, yet no one is visible. This photograph masterfully captures the “presence of absence,” offering a deep gaze into the nocturnal cityscape.

wang fong ya

💙 03

cizucu Editorial Team
The more columns line up, the further the door seems to recede—yet you feel compelled to move forward. The power of this work lies in that paradoxical sensation. The composition, with a small door quietly awaiting at the end of a colonnade rendered in perfect perspective, evokes a scene from a classical painting. The grain of the film harmonizes exquisitely with the weight of the stone, conveying the depth of time accumulated in this corridor.

Michael
在陽光最剛好的午後，
橘色的屋瓦、條紋的遮雨棚，
靜靜守著這扇白色的小門。
門外是街道與風景，
門內則藏著氣味、笑聲，
還有某個只屬於這個地方的日常。

我站在門前按下快門的那一刻，
忽然覺得——
每一扇門，其實都在邀請人
推開它，走進一個新的故事。

📷 SONY α7 V
💙 04

cizucu Editorial Team
“lovely day, merci.” The words written on the glass of the door encapsulate everything about this photograph. The orange-striped awning, the tangerine illustration, the brick at the threshold, and the small potted plant—all these gestures of “welcome” at the door, yet none feel forced. The vivid blue sky further enhances the scene, capturing a moment that would bring a smile to anyone who visits. It is as if the photograph itself preserves that instant of joy.

Yi-Hsuan Lin
Nature's Reclamation
When green finds its own way through the steel. A moment of quiet persistence.

💙 05

cizucu Editorial Team
The perspective that the door is chosen by the plant is refreshing. The vine, without key or permission, quietly claims the door as its own, climbing the lattice. Where humans have repeatedly opened and closed, nature gently overlays another timeline. This photograph captures that moment head-on. The mix of withered and lush leaves is both honest and beautiful. Before this door, where life and decay coexist, one cannot help but pause.

shun090928
The door

📷 Panasonic DC-S5
💙 06

cizucu Editorial Team
A rusted lamp, a green mailbox, cobblestones, and the presence behind a thin curtain—before this door, someone’s daily life is densely condensed. The work evokes a nostalgic sense of déjà vu, as if wandering into a provincial French town, familiar yet never visited. While the door is the protagonist, the careful attention to surrounding details conveys the warmth of those who live there. This is a work that expresses richness through addition, not subtraction.

張聖偉

💙 07

cizucu Editorial Team
The shadow of the lattice stretches long across the wall from the half-open door, as if the place itself is speaking. The abandoned frame, rolled-up sheet, fallen leaves, and scattered objects around the door quietly testify to the end of life once present here. Yet the door remains half-open, never fully closed. This “in-betweenness” imbues the scene with an ambiguous time that is neither ending nor beginning, drawing the viewer’s imagination ever further.

taughto
The door to another world

💙 08

cizucu Editorial Team
The choice of monochrome deepens the solitude of this door. The stained glass of the arched window, the symmetrical lamps, and the ironwork—designs that once warmly welcomed visitors—now quietly lose their color before the peeling wall and withered grass. The iron fence standing before the door creates a sense of physical and psychological distance, keeping the viewer outside. This is a refined image where beauty and decay coexist, exuding an elegant melancholy.

uni.z3
MINOX 35 PL
Kodak Color 200

📷 NORITSUKOKI QSS-32_33
💙 09

cizucu Editorial Team
Light enters from the left, gilding the arabesque latticework as it is drawn into the darkness of the door. Following this path of light, your gaze falls upon a pair of slippers at the entrance, taking your breath away. There is a palpable sense of life—someone is there, right now. The unique design of a Showa-era apartment and the amber warmth imparted by film combine to evoke nostalgia and tenderness in this work.

Gino Cittadini

📷 FUJIFILM X-E4
💙 10

cizucu Editorial Team
A square door framed by a circular opening—this alone transports the photograph to another dimension. The composition, with a modern lattice door perfectly nestled within a weathered stone wall’s circle, is a serendipity only possible where different eras overlap. The sharpness of seeing the door as a “hole” rather than a frame or telescope is striking. The sidewalk and roadway, functioning as negative space, further accentuate the small circle, and the compositional calculation is superb.

saki.
kotor - montenegro

📷 FUJIFILM X-E5
💙 11

cizucu Editorial Team
The post office in Montenegro—its door serves as a gateway for sending words to the world. The yellow awning and mailbox resonate in the sunlight, while the weathered red door and white wall evoke a sense of travel. The shadow of the streetlight flows across the wall, and power lines cut across the sky. Every casual element fits naturally into the frame, and this lack of contrivance creates a sense of richness. Imagining each person who passed through this door carrying a letter for someone warms the heart.

hisen
「 🧨 」 . Doors

📷 RICOH GR IIIx
💙 12

cizucu Editorial Team
The red of the couplets, the vivid colors of the door gods, and the orange bougainvillea spilling in from the upper right—this door still functions as a device to ward off misfortune and invite good luck. The casually placed chair and futon speak to the natural coexistence of faith and daily life, bringing a smile to the viewer. Even the dappled sunlight casting shadows on the door tells of the beauty of “life happening here.” It is a rich image where festival and everyday life blend, as if encountered in a Taiwanese alleyway.

Yi Shuan Sun
Red Iron Gate in the Countryside of Tainan.

💙 13

cizucu Editorial Team
The stains of time etched into the faded wall, and the vividly burning red door—this contrast is the essence of the work. Amidst the decaying building, the door alone seems to possess a will, maintaining its vibrant red. The diagonal shadow adds tension to the frame, and the geometric design of the door powerfully draws the eye. It is an image that seems to say, “There is still something here.”

In Closing

What did you think?

Though doors may occupy the same place, their expressions shift with the light and atmosphere. The works submitted this time delicately captured the subtle margins and fluctuations that might otherwise go unnoticed. In the instant of standing before a door, each person’s memories and emotions quietly seep through.

Discovering yet-unknown talents (new pieces)—that is the very role we hope this project fulfills. We hope your creative expression will inspire and resonate with many more hearts.

May Diary '26

‘May Diary '26’ is a global online photo contest curated by cizucu, open to all creators registered on cizucu. Outstanding submissions will be curated, with the aim of discovering new talent through the platform and fostering support within the community.

This edition’s theme is ‘May Diary’.

The ‘Diary’ series invites you to submit photographs taken in your daily life, accompanied by the stories of those days, much like a diary.

A diary is a valuable means of recording one’s life and experiences. Looking back allows us to objectively perceive our growth and changes, and to gain new insights. We encourage you to organize your daily thoughts and feelings by sharing your own stories.

May is a time when the lingering traces of spring gently give way to early summer. The shimmering young leaves swaying in the breeze, the endless blue sky, the scent of dusk that makes you want to take a deep breath.

As the rush of early April settles and you begin to find your rhythm in new surroundings, this season brings a gentle sense of spaciousness to the heart. Why not quietly capture the feelings that seep into that space, or the scenes that catch your eye, and preserve them as a photographic diary?

We look forward to your submissions.

Inspiration

はくらく
“Tango no Sekku. Every year, the kabuto (samurai helmet) that was displayed at my parents’ home is now moved to our house for my son. Thank you for protecting me all these years. From this year, please watch over my son.”

📷 OLYMPUS E-M1MarkII

cizucu Editorial Team
Every country has its own meaningful holidays. In Japan, there is ‘Children’s Day’ in May, a day to pray for children’s happiness and to give thanks to mothers. Let’s discover and capture those important traditions that are passed down without words, found in the home during May.

Ken
“What lies ahead? Just imagining it is delightful.”

📷 FUJIFILM X-T4

cizucu Editorial Team
There are days when, for some reason, you feel drawn to a path you’ve never seen before. In May, the wind seems to gently push you in that direction. Not to seek answers, but to encounter something that cannot yet be put into words—try recording such a walk in your diary.

filmtaaabooo777

cizucu Editorial Team
Even in the evening, the sky remains bright, stretching all the way to the window. This is the season when the senses, closed off during winter, slowly open up in the light of May. It’s often the unnamed moments that become the memories we want to recall, even years later.

nori9
“Heritage of Connected Terraced Rice Fields”

📷 Nikon Z 6II

cizucu Editorial Team
Someone tills the soil, draws water, and plants seedlings. We now stand atop these landscapes that have been preserved in this way. For just a few weeks in May, the flooded rice terraces reflect the sky itself. Capturing the May expressions of these inherited landscapes can also make for a beautiful diary entry.

haneul

📷 SONY Cyber-shot DSC-WX500

cizucu Editorial Team
If you come across a cat sleeping contentedly under the warm sun, please share it with the cizucu community. That one shot is a great source of motivation for our editorial team!

Contest Information

【Contest Period】
Friday, May 1, 2026 – Sunday, May 31, 2026

【Award Announcement】
Monday, June 8, 2026

【Reward】
Free entry ticket to the cizucu “Photo Poster Project” (for 2 participants)

【How to Submit】
・Select the contest ‘May Diary '26’
・Tap ‘Agree to Submission Guidelines and Post’
・Select your content and submit your work

【Jury Criteria】
(1) Thematic Relevance: Does the submission align with the stated mission?
(2) Subject Focus: Is the photographer’s intention clearly conveyed?
(3) Artistic Expression: Does the work demonstrate expressive power in perspective, composition, balance, focus, color, etc.?
(4) Moment: Does the work capture the decisive moment or timing of the subject?
(5) Originality: Is there a unique approach to the location or subject?

photo poster project

The photo poster project is an exhibition where you can participate simply by choosing a city and date.

This initiative, which we refer to as ppp, is more than just a photography exhibition. It is a community where everyone can confidently share their own stories, and an opportunity to connect with creators from around the world in real life.

This time, we present a report on the photo poster project held at 4D sapporo in Nakajima Park, Sapporo, on Saturday, April 18. If you are interested in joining future editions of the photo poster project across Japan, this is a must-read!

What is the photo poster project?

Opportunities to exhibit your own photography or to connect with other photographers are not always readily accessible. Moreover, organizing a solo exhibition can be both time-consuming and costly.

The photo poster project, organized by cizucu, addresses these challenges.
By simply selecting a location and date and submitting your photographs to cizucu, you can have your work exhibited in a large A2 format. Many photographers from the same area also participate, so you may find future collaborators or friends.

There is no need for the hassle of securing a venue, finding a print shop, or setting up the exhibition. All you need to do is fill out the form and attend the event in person!

On the Day of the Event

A photograph becomes the past the instant the shutter is released. For example, childhood photographs evoke a sense of time lived, even if we have no memory of those moments. Though we may not remember, they stir a quiet nostalgia and remind us of our own existence. And the photographs we take now will, in time, also become the past.

When we revisit an image, not only the scenery but also the emotions of that time can resurface, allowing us to encounter our former selves once more. The camera, I believe, captures the present that truly existed.

This feature unravels what dwells in photographs of the past, through the lenses of memory, time, and nostalgia.

The Imprinted Date as Evidence of Existence

The small numbers stamped on the edge of film. Seeing that imprint makes us realize that we truly existed on that day.

Even on days we cannot recall, there is a version of ourselves smiling, or the gaze of someone else, captured in the frame. The soft hues and slightly coarse grain encapsulate the atmosphere of that era.

The imprinted numbers are not merely records; they serve as clues to the memories of that day. While most contemporary photographs lack a date stamp, in the era when printing photos was the norm, the date remained as tangible evidence of our memories.

Background Details Speak of Their Era

It is often said that history repeats itself. Trends from the past reemerge in new forms. Photographs quietly capture not only people and landscapes, but also the atmosphere of the era in the background.

From clothing and cityscapes to signage, the elements captured in the frame allow us to sense the culture and lifestyle of the time. What was once ordinary may now feel special; by revisiting photographs, we can rediscover the characteristics and atmosphere of an era embedded in everyday life.

What Captivated Us Remains in a Single Frame

Whenever we take a photograph, there is always a reason—a desire to preserve something. Not only extraordinary scenes, but also fleeting moments or indescribable emotions move us to press the shutter. What captivated us and what we cherished at that moment are revealed in a single photograph.

When we look back, what we recall may not be just what is depicted, but the flow of time in that moment. Even the time that slips away in the rush of daily life can be gently retrieved through photography.