Wataru Kikuchi
1. Can you introduce yourself and talk about how you got into photography?
Hi, I am Wataru Kikuchi a self-taught photographer who works as a consultant in the accounting field. I usually use my breaks and free time to take photographs. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't look at photos. Hence I started taking photos because I wanted to take nice photos like the ones you see in magazines and advertisements.
2. Where did you study photography?
I studied photography by taking up lectures and workshops given by photographers who are also my mentors.
3. Do you remember your first shot? What was it?
I photographed my girlfriend with a disposable film camera with a fixed lens.
4. What equipment do you use?
Canon, EOS 1DX Mark2,R6, SIGMA fp L, and EF50mm F1.4.
5. What do you hope to achieve?
I want to take photos that would appear on the cover of a famous magazine, or photos that show the model's inner beauty.
6. What inspires your unique storytelling?
My inspiration is the inner beauty of models and subjects which provides their own unique story.
7. What THREE (3) words describe your photography style?
Storytelling, Lighting, and Black&White.
8. Congratulations! As the winner of the London Photography Awards, what does it mean for you and your team to receive this distinction?
Thank you so much! I was right in believing in the power of the photos I took and moving forward with it.
9. Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 London Photography Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
Since this is my first time entering a large photo contest, I chose one held in London, a wonderful city with a rich history. Many of my winning entries were submitted to promote Japanese culture and the wonderful people of Japan to the world.
10. How has winning an award developed your career?
Now I can not only take photos but also tell a story with it to the world.
11. Name 1-3 photographers who have inspired you.
Akira Shimizu and Satoru Kiiroro.
12. What was the best piece of advice you were given starting out, by a mentor or your role model?
First, you have to try, then think about it. Failure is not a detour. You will only get better as long as you think it through and release the shutter.
13. What advice would you give someone who would like to become a photographer today?
Think, shoot, reflect, and make the most of it the next time. Start immediately what you want to do.
14. What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Decide firmly on your worldview. Take pictures of what you want to convey.
15. How do you stay in that space of being receptive to new information and knowledge?
Always remember your original intention.
