 |
 |
After embarking on a freelance career in 1972, Kenichiro Oyama lived in Paris for five years, writing and taking photographs. Since returning to Japan, he has been active as a photographer, teacher, and panelist, and his continuously updated exhibition series, "Gyoushi" (Gazing), has been shown more than 30 times. |
|
|
|
|
 |
"I’m a very inquisitive person and photograph anything I find interesting."
The photos shown here were taken in Vietnam and Cambodia last November using the newly launched E-3. Rugged enough to keep working in the most adverse environments, it retains the heavy-duty features of the E-1, but has evolved dramatically.
Southeast Asia is like a racial melting pot. I loved it from the moment I first visited the region, and have been back many times since. What appeals to me most is the determination and toughness of the people. They may be poor, but they are full of energy and rarely seem sad. Being attracted to this, I’ve adopted Southeast Asia as one of my themes. The shot entitled "It’s fun to chat!" was taken in Vietnam. These days, the people there get around on motorbikes rather than bicycles, and fewer women wear the traditional ao dai dress. I’d like to continue recording these changes, no matter how small they are.
Living in Japan, my senses become dull, making it hard to see things in a fresh light. But I find that if I go abroad, I can see Japan differently. So leaving Japan for a while means a lot to me, in the sense that it inspires and encourages me. Satisfying my inquisitive nature and boosting my motivation - these are two big benefits of shooting overseas.
I think photographers should always be sensitive to the times. At the photography school where I teach, I hold the "Oyama Seminar," where I gather a group of students on January 2 each year for the first shoot of the year. Under the theme "Tokyo in Transformation," it's become a photo project recording the city's "now" for nearly 20 years.
The themes of my exhibitions have always been based on my feelings and what I am interested in at the time. I’m extremely inquisitive and have the ability to become interested in anything. That’s why I carry my camera with me all year round, ready to capture the unexpected at any time. Once I find something that interests me, I photograph it relentlessly.
The best thing about photography is really the thrill of shooting. When a shot turns out just the way I envisioned, I feel a sense of accomplishment and deep emotion. For me, photography is a microcosm of who I am. With my personality, I was meant to be a photographer. It is truly a vocation.
Editor’s Note
For the last 27 years, Kenichiro Oyama has held "Ken’s Party," a special event for which he personally takes brush in hand to address each of the 600 or so invitations he sends out. His "Oyama Seminar" also has a 20-year history, and his "Gyoushi" exhibition has been held 32 times, all of which demonstrate Oyama’s strength of will to persevere without compromise, whatever the subject. Just like the saying "practice makes perfect," it’s through these quiet, steady efforts that Oyama has developed his wide-ranging creative palette.
(January 2008)
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
|
|
| The Four Thirds System ― A Global Standard in Digital Imaging Performance
and Mobility |
|
 |
|
| The Four Thirds System is a global open standard for the design
of all-digital SLR camera bodies and lenses. Conceived to realize the highest
photographic ideals in a digital age, it brings greater choice to consumers,
and is a living example of our corporate slogan, “Your Vision, Our Future,” in
action. |
|
|
