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Motoi Ichihara's work has focused on the elements of ice, water, and fire. Currently, he is pursuing the theme of the world's food supply, gathering material from the Arctic and Antarctic, Asia, South Asia, and Africa. |
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"You must watch and wait for just the right moment."
I began using digital cameras in 2004, when the Olympus E-1 was launched. It was the camera that marked my "digital camera debut." Thanks to support from Olympus, I soon learned how to work in the digital domain despite being computer-shy. I've since used the E-1 under really tough monsoon and desert conditions, and I've been very impressed by its rugged, splash-proof construction and anti-dust system.
The shots shown here were taken with the E-1 for one of my long-term projects, a collection of photos based on the themes of the "water" and "food" of Lake Biwa. In retrospect, it would appear that Lake Biwa is the starting point for all of my work. Having always loved eating and drinking, I focused on food first. But that ultimately led me to explore the theme of water, which in turn led me to the theme of "energy." My sphere of activity now spans the globe, but it all started at Lake Biwa.
I often tell young photographers to remember the two W's - Watching and Waiting - because in my opinion, careful observation and precise timing are essential to getting the right shot. When I go abroad, I never start working the moment I arrive at a location - for a while, I eat and drink what the locals do to allow my stomach and body to become accustomed to the region. Basically, I think and communicate with the local inhabitants using my stomach until the right moment arrives. Only then do I start working.
For me, photography is both a weapon and a tool for self-expression. Regardless of what one is up against, it's fighting spirit and an aggressive approach to work that brings success. It's like boxing, in a way - a place where I fight my battles.
My latest idea is for a project related to the world's grain belts. As you know, wheat, soybeans, corn, and other grains are produced in Australia, Brazil, Canada, the United States, Russia, and other countries. I'd like to focus on the distribution of these foods from the viewpoint of the water that's indispensable for their production. And once I've regained my strength and done what I can to protect myself from getting malaria again, I want to go back to Africa and continue taking photos related to water and energy. There's a mountain of things that I still want to accomplish.
Editor’s Note
Gourmet, vinophile, and world traveler Motoi Ichihara has endured innumerable hardships in his pursuit of adventure. From a near-fatal attack of malaria and a narrow escape from Chomolungma, to the time he was snowbound for four days in Greenland and had to stave off frostbite by putting tacks in his shoes to make his feet bleed, Motoi has survived it all. As courageous in his storytelling as he is in life, he pushes himself to the limit with true fighting spirit.
(May 2008)
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