Hello, instant film lovers, and welcome back to Viewfinder, our series in which we chronicle interesting projects people are working on using Impossible film. This week, we’re happy to present to you “Ray of Summer,” a photo book by Japanese photographer Ken Hirama and singer/songwriter Ray.
The “Ray of Summer” photo book was made limited of 100 copies and was only available at Ray’s annual solo live performance. Due to the great feedback, I wanted to share some of the photos. The book is a collection of Ken’s portraits of Ray using a folding SX-70 and PX 70 Color Shade Cool film
A great portrait comes from the mutual trust between the photographer and the model, therefore having known Ray since our early teens, we were both comfortable with each other. Rather than planning each shot, I would let her play in the park or the beach to bring out her natural charm. My job was to capture her charm using this unique type of film and understanding that it always produces an unexpected image. The choices we had to make upon choosing the right photos and the film was also difficult but with the help and support from so many, we were able to finish this beautiful book.
To see more of Ken’s photography, please visit kenhiramaphoto.tumblr.com. To hear Ray’s music please visit soundcloud.com/sunfloweray.
These are just lovely and well said about portrait photography!
“A great portrait comes from the mutual trust between the photographer and the model…”