My best moment in October

"What a beautiful day!"

It was a breathtaking, picture-perfect Shonan scene when I arrived at the Katase beach; the air was crisp, the clear blue sky stretched so high, and the ocean reflected the sun like a diamond.

There were groups of people getting ready for the "Shio-hi-gari, the clam digging." The people's happy chatter and the sound of children running around were in harmony with the gentle sound of the waves.

The motivation quietly filled my heart. It felt like returning to a place within myself that I thought I had lost.

Dedicated to the Roberts Family — with a Big Mahalo 🌺

It was an especially special day because it marked my first family portrait session at the beach since my return to Japan, and it was with the Roberts family.

I have known of them since our Maui days. Even though we were living on the same island, Kumi was pursuing her path in the world of Hula, and I was pursuing my passion for photography. Our paths never directly crossed. We kept a gentle eye on each other from afar, staying loosely connected through social media as life unfolded in different directions.

Maui to Shonan: A Connection That Found Its Way Back

The Roberts family relocated to Japan about ten years ago and built a thriving Hālau in Kamakura, nurturing and sharing the Aloha spirit right here in Shonan. I've always admired the grace, resilience, and sincerity behind their work.

When I heard that they had returned to Japan, a part of me wanted to reach out, but I hesitated. I wondered if the timing was awkward, if it was too late, if I should wait. And yet, life unfolded, somewhere beyond logic — guided by something like Aumakua, the Hawaiian spiritual guardian or ancestors — our paths finally crossed here in our shared homeland of Shonan.

My Life After Returning to Japan

It has been two years since I came back to my hometown with my children and Makkachin. Life changed. I changed.

I began a new career as a translator, a work that I enjoy deeply. Yet, even while advancing in that field, a part of me felt unfinished. Photography has been more than a profession to me; it has been my way of connecting with people. It was a meaningful part of my life.

But starting again in a new location was not easy.

 I questioned myself.

 I questioned whether I was too late.

 I wondered if there was still a place for my work.

Finding My Way Back to Photography

Through many reflective walks and long internal conversations, I realized:

The only action I need to take is "to decide."

So, I studied the rules around photography in Japan, contacted municipalities, researched location guidelines, and began redesigning my website — one step at a time. I hushed self-doubt and kept moving forward at my own pace.

A Milestone Moment

I realized it was time to gather more sample images, and a hero photo was just what my website needed. Immediately, Kumi and her family popped into my mind. They would be amazing models for a portrait session that truly captures the spirit of Shonan!

I was a bit hesitant at first, remembering how I had missed the chance to meet her back in Maui. But I didn’t want to let that happen again, so I reached out and asked if they would model for me — and, to my delight, she said, “Yes!” I was flying high!

It felt like a significant milestone. On the day of the shoot, the weather was on our side: a gorgeous Shonan morning, clear skies, and the soothing sound of waves in the background. I had such a blast working with Kumi, Palema, and Ryoma.

I was getting excited about announcing my newly redesigned website on October 23. Everything was coming together beautifully, and I felt really grounded and purposeful — that is, until the night of October 18.

And Then, the Unexpected

On Saturday, October 18, I had an unfortunate fall and broke my right wrist — the hand that orchestrates everything.

Now, all the momentum I had created had to pause. It was frustrating — physically painful, and emotionally difficult.

For a moment, I wondered if life was telling me to give up photography. I was still in shock from the injury, but I carefully tried to listen to myself.

"This pause is temporary."

"I will heal."

"There is always a way to sustain my life with photography."

Continuing Forward

My goal now is to make myself visible to future clients while I am healing and to be ready to accept new bookings by the end of winter. I am continuing to finalize my new website.

So please keep an eye out for my next announcement when I unveil my new website.

For now — to the Roberts family — Mahalo.💖

It was such a beautiful day to meet you in person, finally. Thank you so much for being willing to be my models. You were like gentle rippling waves, reminding me of how much I love photographing people.

P.S. It really cracked me up when I asked you, "What would be 'Shio-hi-gari' in English?" and you answered, "Oh, it's Hukilau!" 😆🌴

With aloha,

 Mieko