Located in the heart of Japan, Daisho Photography is renowned for capturing moments that tell a story, evoke emotion and connect us all in the shared tapestry of human experience. At the helm of this creative endeavour is Hotaka Matsumura, a professional photographer with a keen eye for detail and a heart deeply rooted in his community.
On 5 May 2023, Hotaka took on a project that was close to his heart. As a member of the local community association, he volunteered to photograph the Kodomo no Hi, or Children’s Day Festival, at the Hiraoka Shrine in Higashiosaka. The festival, a vibrant showcase of local traditions, was an opportunity for Hotaka to highlight the beauty and spirit of the community he loves.
Hiraoka Shrine, located in Higashiosaka, is a place of worship and celebration. It is known for its annual Autumn Festival, where community members give thanks for the autumn harvest by dedicating a drum float to the gods. The festival is a kaleidoscope of colour, energy and community spirit that attracts people from all walks of life.
On Children’s Day, this spirit is channeled into a celebration of the younger generation. The festival was filled with laughter, camaraderie and the innocent joy of children. As a member of the Junior Division of his local community association, Hotaka had a special role to play in this celebration.
Hotaka’s photographs beautifully captured the different moments of the festival. From the jubilant smiles of the children carrying the large mikoshi (portable shrine), their determined gazes and strained faces reflecting the weight and honour of their task, to the wide-eyed wonder of the younger children, unable to carry the mikoshi but equally entranced by the spectacle.
These images were not just snapshots of the festival; they were poignant narratives of community spirit, resilience and unity. Each photograph was a testament to Hotaka’s artistic vision and commitment to his community. He shared these photos through a file-sharing service and Google Photos, making them easily accessible to the local community association and distributed to families.
As a professional photographer, Hotaka understands that the essence of photography goes beyond the technical aspects. In his words, “The most important part of photography is the relationships you build”. This philosophy is reflected not only in his work, but also in his role as a husband and father.
Hotaka sees his active participation in community events not only as a professional opportunity, but also as a personal responsibility. As a member of the Junior Division, his role is to create an environment where children can feel more integrated into the community. By making festivals and community activities more accessible, Hotaka helps to ensure that the children of Higashiosaka lead fulfilling lives, enriched by a sense of belonging and communal harmony.
His commitment to the community does not end with the click of a camera shutter. Hotaka works tirelessly to create a welcoming and nurturing community, not just for his own family, but for all families in the area. He understands that building a vibrant community is not a simple give and take, but a labour of love that every adult and parent must undertake.
Through his photographs, Hotaka invites us all to take a closer look at our own communities. His work encourages us to appreciate the beauty in everyday moments, to celebrate our shared experiences, and to foster relationships that strengthen our sense of belonging.
At Daisho Photography, every photograph is not just an image, but a story waiting to be told. Whether it’s the twinkle in a child’s eye at a local festival, the quiet resilience of an elder’s face, or the joyous celebration of a community festival, Daisho Photography is committed to capturing these moments and sharing them with the world.
While Daisho Photography has a global footprint, its heart remains firmly in the local community. By engaging in community activities and contributing to the social fabric, Hotaka and Daisho Photography demonstrate that businesses can play a vital role in improving the lives of the people they serve.
As we reflect on the Kodomo no Hi Festival, we are reminded of the power of community, the joy of shared experiences and the importance of giving back. Through his lens, Hotaka has shown us that while we may come from different walks of life, we are all connected in the grand tapestry of human experience.
We invite you to join us on this journey, to discover the stories that lie within each photograph, and to celebrate the spirit of community that lies at the heart of Daisho Photography.
We would like to thank the Hiraoka Shrine and the Higashiosaka community for allowing us to capture these beautiful moments. We look forward to participating in future festivals and continuing our work to capture the essence of our vibrant and spirited community.
Daisho Photography is more than a business; it’s a commitment to community, to storytelling and to the power of capturing moments that matter. Through our work, we hope to inspire, connect and showcase the beauty and resilience of our community.
As we look to the future, we remain committed to our mission of capturing the spirit of community in every photograph. Whether it’s a local festival, a family celebration or a quiet moment of reflection, we are here to tell your story.
Daisho Photography – Capturing the spirit of community, one photo at a time.