This is the first of a series of blog posts from Miyajima- a holy island near Hiroshima boasting temples, rivers, mountains, friendly deer, monkeys and a mystical floating Tori gate.
The island is shrouded in legend and myth. A favourite story is that couples visiting together must receive a blessing, or else be destined to separate. In as much, the island is a popular choice for weddings- giving me the chance to take this photo of a Japanese girl and American marine on their happy day. I love the mix of imagery; of the traditional, delicate kimono and the rigid, militant uniform- cultures joined by the hand. I decided to take the picture from behind, showing off the elaborateness of the Kimono’s obi and capturing the weddings official photographer peering round the see what I was up to.
snow monkey photography 
Andy Martin November 30, 2011
Super! Evocative with knobs on – pure post WW2 movies and Rogers and Hammerstein.
Many of your followers might wish they had visited the island and avoided being blessed…..
winegums December 1, 2011
I quite liked this one. Rogers and Hammerstein wrote musicals right? The reference fails me there…
alessiaepifani November 30, 2011
winegums…I really like this pic! I am glad you could catch that moment and now you can show it to us! 😀 cheers!
winegums December 1, 2011
Thank you! I was lucky that I was in the right place at the right time and was cheeky enough to take it. The wedding photographer did not look best pleased!
marinachetner November 30, 2011
I love this image. It’s so interesting to look at from so many perspectives – cultural, design, emotional.
winegums December 1, 2011
Thanks so much! Sometimes you just have to be in the right place in the right time! I love all the contrasts in it too- all unified together by the hand.
Andy Martin December 2, 2011
West embraces East – the future of, and hope for, the world encapsulated in a single shot.
As to your query above, think South Pacific. Jeez – I’m too old for this newfangled blog stuff….
winegums December 3, 2011
I am also just not very good on musicals!
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Tricia A. Mitchell January 26, 2012
Because of your perspective, the viewer feels a part of the ceremony. What beautiful kimono details you’ve captured!
winegums January 29, 2012
Thank you! Kimono’s are really amazing things. I checked out your blog and you have an amazing portfolio of travel shots!
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