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

Brief, Heart-warming Moments / Yamada Ryohei (Saitama)

Message from the photographer

There is something about Hagi that is gentle and delightful. So I decided to photograph her. Nearly two years have passed since we started high school, but looking at her through my viewfinder, I feel her open-heartedness has not changed at all. I think that I am drawn to Hagi because of that naturalness. With our separate career goals, I guess our paths may diverge, but for now, I want to cherish the time I have with her.

About the subject

Hagi and I have been together throughout junior high and high school. I wanted to portray her unchanging warmth and cheerful spirit.