International Filter Photo Contest2023

The expression of dynamism using filters is quite challenging. When capturing motion, such as light trails or water, with a slow shutter speed, it's common to sharply capture the still parts to create contrast. In this piece, by using an ND filter to lower the shutter speed, the photographer has managed to capture the dynamic rotation while panning the image of pulling a large straw bag. It's a complex expression that successfully utilizes blur to create a powerful and compelling artwork.

It seems to depict a festival involving the rolling of giant straw bags, and the idea to express this scene through a slow shutter effect using an ND filter was a great touch. The control of focus and color development played a significant role, resulting in a truly unique representation. This piece succeeds in piquing the viewer's curiosity, making them think 'Oh, what's this?' I believe it's a work that skillfully leverages the characteristics of the filter to capture and enhance the inherent energy of the subject.

The title is 'Near-Future City,' but the actual scene of Shinjuku depicted is undergoing aging and a rush of rebuilding. Documenting such changes of time is also an important role of photography. Using an ND filter for a slow shutter speed transforms these cityscapes, making them appear as futuristic cities. Not only are the light trails of the cars beautiful, but the lights of the buildings and the expressions of the sky are also attractive, capturing various facets of light.

The characteristic depiction of multiple overlapping images creates a unique atmosphere, reminiscent of observing a thousand-armed Kannon. This artwork suggests, 'Could there be some divine blessing?' and caught my attention – and indeed, there was a sense of divine favor. Beyond the filter effects, what makes this piece stand out is the captivating expression of the woman in the photograph. In my opinion, the true value of a photograph lies in the subject's expression. This artwork skillfully combines a compelling subject with effective filter effects.

Judging a global photo competition is an exciting but also demanding task, as a very large number of amazing photos have to be evaluated and then the best ones must be carefully selected based on the small details that make the difference.When I saw this photo, I instantly knew it was my favorite amongst this year’s wonderful entries. It is a dramatic and powerful photo, with only the necessary elements fitting the square frame, to show the power of landscape and how small a human is in the vastness of nature.With the use of a neutral density (ND) filter the photographer added an extra fine detail in the overall image, making it look more like a painting, as he managed to capture in-camera the movement of the passing clouds over the 60 seconds of the exposure.The distance between the camera and the model was such that not only created this impressive scale between elements, but also helped to avoid capturing any movements of the model during the long exposure.

Photography involving water and light often captures mesmerizing scenes. The interplay here in this photograph of reflections, the rainbow, and the way light interacts with the rocks created a stunning visual that pulled me instantly.
It's a photo that can bring peace and harmony to anyone having a busy day. I can see this photo hanging on the wall somewhere for everyone to enjoy.

The photographer has transformed an ordinary volcanic lava coast into something dreamlike, thanks to their creativity and the use of filters. This style of photography, once popular in Japan during the era of film photography, seemed to have vanished in the digital age. Seeing it re-emerge now is truly eye-catching and stunningly beautiful!

把一个普通的火山熔岩海岸拍成了梦幻一般，靠的就是摄影师的创意和所借助的滤镜。这种拍摄手法在胶片时代曾经在Japan风靡一时，但在数码时代却销声匿迹了，如今再次看到让我眼前一亮，太美了！"

The 'Black Mist Filter,' which has been highly acclaimed in recent years, has a key point when using it: including a light source can enhance its effectiveness. This photo skillfully captures the effect of the'Black Mist No.05' by incorporating the setting sun through the clouds. The image of the sisters in the rapeseed field is delightful, and for these reasons, it has been selected for the Kenko Tokina Special Prize.