It was at a photo exhibition when we met her for the first time. With an imperious air, she appeared to the exhibition hosted by a group of rangefinder junkies. Until then, we were just making worthless conversation like we were in an after-school clubroom. After we noticed her clear eyes looking at each photo, we became speechless and just followed what she was looking at with our eyes.
Her name is Shiho Takano and she's an actress. Many people should remember her starring in the NHK serial TV drama "Sakura." She was hanging a black-painted Leica over the shoulder. By appearance, we instantly recognized that the camera belonged to a serious shooter.
Leica isn't a camera for everyone, but for enthusiasts. It's not a common camera for young people, and it's very uncommon for ladies. We wondered why she is using Leica, what kind of pictures she takes, and what kind of person she is. It's just about one camera, but we became interested in herself and her way of life. She should have some reasons to own and use the camera.
What is Shiho Takano looking through the viewfinder? We will try to find the answer by listening to her perspective as an actress.
