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The Parisienne
The Maiko
Serendipitously, some photo opportunities simply appear. If you're lucky you're ready to take a photo regardless of what gear you packed: it's what's in your hands at that moment that matters. Maybe that's why we refer to our images as 'captures'.
This image was taken while touring Kyoto with a small group where we visited an okiya, (giesha house). As our group was taking seats around the stage, and before I had dialed in my pro camera, I was able to get this portrait of Fukuyumi in repose with an iPhone just before she began her presentation. Everyone in the group requested that I text or email them a copy but I said I has another idea, that once back home I'd combine the image with an extended caption, graciously provided by our guide, Emma, on Japanese washi paper and forward a copy of the 11 x 17" print to all. Below is Emma's text:
“This is Fukuyumi—not her real name—a Geisha in training, otherwise referred to as a Maiko (“dancing child”). She will undergo 5 years of training before becoming a full-fledged Geisha. (In Kyoto they say Geiko). Between 15 and 17 years old, Fukuyumi left middle school to start training before entering high school. Only her bottom lip is filled-in which indicates that she has not yet completed her first year. We met Fukuyumi at Maru-Ume (“round-plum”), a tea house which specializes in Geisha entertainment. Maru-ume is located in a Kyoto neighborhood called Gion, one of the 5 Geisha districts in the city. Fukuyumi lives in a geisha house nearby.” —Emma Holdsworth, September 6th, 2024
For a larger version of the print click here