‘Focus’ shines a light on creators, artworks, and trends. We select and introduce creators who share outstanding photographs, together with their works. Discovering shared sensibilities, we hope to inspire new creative visions. This edition’s theme: “Hyperreality”.
A World More Real Than Reality, Expanding Through Imperfection
The profound allure that the aesthetics of imperfection bring to photography is difficult to articulate. While the camera is a tool for direct capture and preservation, the photograph itself is an art form imbued with the complexities of human emotion. Even in photographs that seem more objective and complete as a medium of record than painting, there are moments when a single image evokes a sense of dissonance. Within these works, a unique spirit breathes—one not found elsewhere. Such images critically reflect an invisible, yet authentic, reality. They remind us that it is precisely within imperfection that a new brilliance of reality emerges.
This time, we feature creators whose surreal photographs convey profound reality and authenticity.
The Hidden Heart of the Iron Boy
Image by hikaru masamiya
Q. Points you are conscious of in your usual practice and when photographing
It’s difficult to put into words, but I try to eliminate as much as possible any conscious triggers like deciding to shoot because of a certain composition or color. Instead, I rely on intuition—when composition, color, light, sense of distance, and my mood at that moment all converge in a way that feels just right, I naturally press the shutter.
hikaru masamiya
I began taking photography seriously when I set out on a round-the-world journey at 19. By capturing the paths I traveled and the places and people who inspired me, I wanted to share the freedom of expression with others and, through discovering what I love, also let people know who I am. This desire has been the driving force behind my photographic practice.
I’ve mostly shot on the street and have never entered contests. I think it’s because I’m not seeking to take the ‘best’ photograph, but rather, I find the greatest satisfaction in capturing moments that resonate with my own sensibilities.
cizucu: hikaru masamiya
Instagram: @masamiyajamiehikaru
A Defiant Chair Floating in Space
Image by hirokagiake
Q. Points you are conscious of in your usual practice and when photographing
The use of light and shadow, black and white. Whatever captures my heart in that moment.
hirokagiake
I didn’t start for any special reason; taking photos with my phone simply became part of my daily life.
cizucu: hirokagiake
Instagram: @0blend1
Illusions of Silence, Consciousness Lost Deep in the Forest
Image by Mori
Q. Points you are conscious of in your usual practice and when photographing
My main equipment is a mirrorless camera, drone, and iPhone. I pay particular attention to how light falls and exposure during shooting. Recently, with advances in technology, I am planning to shoot and edit exclusively with the iPhone.
Mori
University student in Kyoto. I became interested in photography in elementary school after buying a small compact digital camera. I mainly work on projects and archival photography both inside and outside the university. I am also interested in and researching the relationship between contemporary art and photographic media.
cizucu: Mori
Surrealist texts reveal worlds beyond the boundaries of convention, nourishing the spirit in the midst of everyday reality. Photography, more than just visible information, may serve as a mirror of consciousness, reflecting worlds hundreds of light-years away that cannot be seen.
