Hara Mikiko captures fleeting moments in Tokyo life

International interest in Japanese photography has historically centered on male photographers, often overshadowing the contributions of women. A new book titled 'I’m So Happy You Are Here' seeks to address this imbalance by showcasing the work of 25 Japanese women photographers, particularly those active from the 1950s to the 1990s. This collection highlights the evolution of women's representation in photography, especially in the context of postwar Japan, where early pioneers documented the impact of the male gaze on women's bodies. Hara Mikiko, a photographer featured in the book, captures the essence of attraction and femininity in her work. Initially an underground theatre actor, she transitioned into photography almost serendipitously after discovering her father's camera. Her unique approach involves shooting from the chest without using the viewfinder, allowing for a spontaneous and neutral representation of her subjects. Mikiko's photography is characterized by a distinctive muted color palette, achieved through the use of a 1930s German Ikonta camera and Kodak film. This technique has been a hallmark of her style over the past three decades. Influenced by American street photographer Garry Winogrand, she adapts his philosophy of capturing the essence of subjects through photography, infusing it with the ethereal light of Tokyo. The book not only celebrates the artistic contributions of women photographers but also reflects on the changing dynamics of gender representation in the visual arts. By focusing on the nuanced experiences of women, it aims to foster a deeper understanding of their roles in the evolution of Japanese photography.