Gigi & William first approached me with a clear vision of their session. They wanted to experience and document the Japanese fireworks festivals. To be honest, I was a little hesitant because Japanese fireworks festivals are known to be crazy packed and while I had photographed fireworks festivals on numerous occasions, I had little experience capturing fireworks with portraits. Nevertheless, I was up for the challenge and Gigi & William placed their trust in me.
We managed to find a small festival in my prefecture happening just before the summer heat started. Even though it was the rainy season, we were also incredibly lucky to have clear skies and great weather after days of rain. We spent the earlier part of the session the exploring the traditional city of Kanazawa, visiting the famous Kenrokuen Garden and traditional tea streets.
When we reached Funami, the town where the fireworks festival would be held, the sun was setting quickly, casting a golden glow on the lush, green summer rice fields. We enjoyed some quiet moments in the rice fields and proceeded to the main festival event. I had a really nice time, just soaking in the festival atmosphere and capturing Gigi & William as they went booth hopping. The day ended with the fireworks as the highlight and a mini fireworks of our own :)
A shoutout to W-san, a resident of the town who kindly allowed us to shoot the fireworks at his front porch. Till this day, I am always very touched by the hospitality and kindness of the Japanese people, who welcomed me and my clients so warmly.
Thank you to Gigi & William , who were such lovely individuals and company for the day!
