Prize-winning works in the “Photo and Essay Division” for high school students of the 31st Yomiuri Photo Grand Prix

Aitan / Hara Chiemi (Kumamoto)

Message from the photographer

My childhood friend Aitan marches to the beat of her own drum—so much so that it amazes even me. We had gone to the same school all our lives, but we’ve had less and less time to spend together since we started going to different high schools. Since then, Aitan has been steadily transforming into a young adult. Aitan’s dream is to become a fashion designer. She’s a completely different person when it comes to fashion. By photographing her, I discovered a different side of Aitan that I had never seen before. We’ve started going our different paths, but I hope we stay friends for years to come!

About the subject

Aitan and I have been friends since preschool. I photographed the way Aitan has begun growing and changing since she entered high school, an important stage in our lives.