Sophie Breckenridge, Koyo (SINGLE SHOT 2026)

Between the intensity of Tokyo’s streets, I found stillness in Arashiyama. Japanese culture invites slowness. I visited in November 2025 when the autumn leaves were nearly at peak. The Arashiyama river was surrounded by vibrant transitioning colours. Although I take international trips to step away from my commercial photography practise, I still carry my camera. With it, I see things differently. Photography becomes the art of noticing – revealing details that are often missed when we move too quickly. In Japan, the concept of ikigai speaks about a reason for being – where passion, skill and contribution intersect. For me, photography sits within that space. It is not simply image-making, but an invitation to pause. In a culture increasingly driven by speed and spectacle, this work offers an alternative; to slow down, observe and find meaning in what might otherwise be overlooked.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.