Coming of Age: Capturing the Essence of Japanese Tradition

A Celebration of Maturity and Tradition

The photo shoot took place in the serene Hokokuji Temple in Kamakura, known for its enchanting Bamboo Garden. Ismail Niyaz Mohamed deliberately chose this location due to the symbolic significance of bamboo in Japanese culture. Bamboo, a strong and resilient plant, represents prosperity, purity, innocence, and good luck. It holds immense importance in Japanese tradition and is deeply rooted in their culture.

The unique properties of this design lie in its portrayal of the Coming of Age day ceremony. This formal event, held once in a lifetime, occurs every second Monday of January. Young girls don elegant kimonos, while boys opt for suits and ties or traditional men's kimonos. It is a spiritual occasion where many visit shrines to pray for health and prosperity.

Using a Nikon D4 DSLR camera and an AF-S NIKKOR 14-24mm F2.8G ED lens, Ismail Niyaz Mohamed skillfully captured the essence of the Coming of Age day. The technical specifications of the shoot included a shutter speed of 1/100 sec, aperture of f2.8, focal length of 14mm, and an ISO of 160.

The project presented its fair share of challenges, with one of the most significant being the crowd of tourists visiting the Bamboo Garden. Ismail Niyaz Mohamed patiently waited for the perfect moments, ensuring that no one was in the frame. In post-processing, unwanted objects and people in the background were meticulously removed, resulting in captivating images that truly encapsulate the spirit of the occasion.

Through this project, Ismail Niyaz Mohamed aimed to highlight the significance of bamboo in Japanese culture and its relation to human character. Bamboo's hollow interior represents the ideal state of a young adult leaving behind the negativity of their teenage years, embracing knowledge and wisdom for personal growth. Its sturdy yet flexible nature symbolizes humility and the ability to adapt to life's challenges.

The Coming of Age day photography project by Ismail Niyaz Mohamed beautifully captures the essence of this traditional Japanese event. It serves as a visual testament to the importance of cultural milestones and the preservation of tradition in a rapidly evolving world.

Image Credits: Ismail Niyaz Mohamed

Awards and Accolades: This Design was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in Photography and Photo Manipulation Design in 2020. The Iron A' Design Award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. It celebrates designs that integrate industry best practices and exhibit competent technical characteristics, contributing to a better world.