I was never really good with words.
So I discovered poetry in pictures. Stories emerge where lines meet and colors merge. Frame by frame, subjects reveal to me pieces of their personal narratives.
Avid lover of Japan’s unique lifestyle, I took my film camera and spent a year capturing the youth culture.
By shooting in analog format, I aspired to connect with my subjects in all of their subtleties. Thus, I learned more with less.
I found focus in the blurry.
Little did I know that this journey would deeply shape my identity as a photographer.
I hope that emotions can transcend through these images to inspire you.
Here are the stories they chose to tell.
July 18, 2017
This week we have Shota! I met this young fella a few times in the Harajuku street and he always has these crazy looks. I wasn’t surprised he picked Harajuku as a location as it is his base with his friends (they walk in squads!). Today he was wearing some Yproject insane pants and very cool silver jewelry.
He’s super young but already has a cool sense of style. I also liked the fact he wasn’t scared of anything and certainly not of heights as we did two one shot that was on a ledge of a 14th floor.
Shot number 6 (also the cover on top) is one of my favorite taken in Tokyo so far!
He sent back his reply in english and it’s actually funny (I usually translate!).
What do you do?
I’m a high school student.
Any particular designer you are wearing right now?
I choose clothes with my own sense.
Why did you choose this location and surroundings?
Because I grew up in Harajuku and LOVE it.
Where do you go with your friends to have fun?
Places where SAIKOU gathers. (JG’s note: any location where the best people gather).
Where do you spend your ‘leisure’ money?
I only buy clothes, lol.
Where do you go in Tokyo to relax?
At the hair salon OceanTokyoWhite. (A very japanese thing !).
What’s your main hobby?
FASHION!!!!
What is your favorite clothing store?
Christopher Nemeth in Omotesando.
Favorite current movies?
My favorite movie are the ones from studio Ghibli.
What is on your playlist?
Various songs of various genres.
How would you describe your style?
I exceed destiny, I’m convinced. I LOVE ME.
(not sure what he meant, probably that he makes his own style and loves it).
Do the arts influence it?
The human being is art. Therefore I love art and humans.
Thank you Shota! Pretty sure I’ll find him again in the street.
Next week: Kaori!