The Stillness and Movement: Capturing the Essence of a Traditional Festival

Documentary Photography at its Finest

Nogami was approached by the temple, Saidaiji, to document their extraordinary annual festival. The temple, typically known for its serene and tranquil environment, undergoes a remarkable transformation during this event. Thousands of naked men gather to participate in the festivities, creating a scene that is both overwhelming and captivating. However, amidst the chaos, the temple stands as a silent guardian, calmly protecting the participants.

The strength of Nogami's work lies in his ability to capture the stillness and movement within a single frame. By carefully manipulating light and shadows, he creates a clear distinction between the bright, energetic part of the festival and the dark, serene atmosphere of the temple. The resulting photographs are a testament to the power of visual storytelling.

Using a DSLR camera and natural light, Nogami aimed to capture the realistic sensation of the festival. Flash photography would have diminished the heat and enthusiasm of the event. Instead, he relied on the interplay between light and shadow to convey the energy and power of the festival.

Throughout the day-long event, Nogami maneuvered through the crowd, ensuring he captured the most impactful moments. The festival participants, driven by their religious faith and a desire to showcase their bravery and strength, scramble to obtain two sacred wooden sticks. While there are no specific rules, harming others is strictly prohibited. The atmosphere is one of both competition and camaraderie, as participants congratulate the winners once a stick is obtained. After the festival, the sticks are carefully wrapped and returned to the temple.

Nogami's photographs not only capture the essence of the festival but also shed light on the motivations behind the participants' involvement. Through his lens, he discovered that many of the men participate in the festival as an expression of their religious devotion and a prayer for the safety of their families. The festival serves as a platform for them to demonstrate their courage and resilience.

"The Stillness and Movement" is a testament to Nogami's skill as a photographer and his ability to capture the essence of a cultural event. Through his photographs, he invites viewers to experience the duality of the temple and the festival, showcasing the beauty and power of tradition.

Senichiro Nogami's work has been recognized and awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Photography and Photo Manipulation Design category in 2019. This prestigious award honors designs that exhibit outstanding creativity, technical skills, and contribute to improving the quality of life.