Photographing Tokyo’s Solitary Figure
In the bustling crowd of Tokyo, I find myself captivated by a solitary figure.
This notion may be a clichéd romantic ideal, exactly what artists aim to move away from. Instead, I prefer to embrace the unique perspectives that foster growth.
Why choose this particular imagery? Or engage with any stereotypes that gain traction on social media? The answer lies in knowledge and experience, as well as in following one’s heart during the creative process.
Stereotypes are merely concepts that have become familiar to the masses. Over time, these once exceptional ideas have transformed into the mundane. Who wants to capture an ordinary photograph? I do, and I do so frequently.
In any field, starting from the ground up is expected. Working meticulously through each stage leads to mastery. For instance, earning different coloured belts in martial arts indicates an individual’s proficiency in the sport, informing others of their progress and how they should be approached.
Street photography is my area of focus, and I think any style of imagery is valid. Not every shot needs to be shared, nor does every shot belong in your portfolio, but every capture should bring you one step closer to your goal.
The solitary figure. Alone at the Ueno station platform.
Travelling in Tokyo involves trains, subways, streetcars, and, occasionally, buses. Typically, these places feature a solitary figure. This is intriguing on its own; however, when combined with the context of a bus or train station, it offers viewers insights that lead to a deeper understanding. Consequently, a meaning or narrative starts to emerge.
The solitary figure, with a few degrees of complexity added.
The image of an elderly man looking at his phone with Shibuya Crossing in the background can be interpreted in different ways. It showcases the paradox of having access to the whole world through a small device. It could be seen as a lonely old man seeking a fleeting connection with the younger generation, or simply as a man waiting for the bus in a popular area.
His back to the world and eyes on everything.
The final image was captured outside Kawaguchi Station in Saitama. The upper third appears stark and expansive, while the lower two-thirds feel immediate and overwhelming. The interpretation of this image varies by viewer; to me, it evokes both heartbreak and hope.
I look forward to seeing the next frame(scene) like a movie. What happens next is the underlying theme of this image.
A man waits with flowers. What will happen next?
Although the simplicity of the first image may be considered clichéd, I still appreciate it, even if others do not. The following pictures grow increasingly complex, moving away from the cliché. I couldn't capture later images without first experiencing the original. Sticking to one's creative vision, despite the heavy influence of anonymous feedback on social media, leads to the development of better artists who create more meaningful art.
