January's theme: "Walk"

For nearly four years, it was natural for us to be together
So, walking along the usual road, just like always
I wonder if walking hand in hand will become less common from spring...
With a feeling of regret for parting with such an ordinary thing,
Parents and children move on to a new stage
These days, I am slowly preparing myself mentally.



Photo and caption: @no_right_no_life



Comment from Advisor

The theme for January was "Walking."
This is a personal matter, but I want my kanji for this year to be "walk". I tend to run around a lot, but I want to walk steadily, one step at a time, while watching my surroundings a little more. So I was curious about how everyone walks and runs every day, and I wanted to see "walk" that gives a sense of "walk" and aspiration.
This is the first "Photo of the Month" of 2023, a photo that will serve as a goal and a beginning.
We received many photos from the club members that captured their family goals and expectations, their own goals and wishes, and their excitement for change. All of the photos were filled with excitement and hope for 2023, and it was an uplifting experience to look at them all. After looking at all the photos, we chose just one. This is the one we would like to introduce to you.
I don't think there are many photos that express the feelings written in the caption to this extent. No caption is necessary anymore; the shadow stretching in the foreground conveys a sense of reluctance, the figure walking towards the light conveys hope for the next stage, the gentle steps convey the will of the couple, and the positioning of the trees as if to protect them conveys the photographer's wishes. I think all of these feelings are beautifully expressed through the contrast in light and dark and the composition. I think this photo will give viewers an opportunity to think about 2023 as well.

Comment: Etsuko Aibu (Advisor of the Manazashi Photo Club)