“Imagine Finding Me” is a photographic series by Chino Otsuka, a London-based Japanese photographer. This series revolves around the childhood of the photographer and her past memories. The photographs were formed by taking Otsuka’s childhood photographs and inserting her adult self in them, creating a sense of travelling back in time. Otsuka used some photographs from her teenage year as well – inserting them with her photographs from the year 2005 to 2009. The photographs were taken in different places, showcasing her many experiences travelling the world.

Otsuka portrayed her photographs with great subtlety making it seem that her photos are one with the other. She handles the photos with precise details, creating a smooth and clear image, making it impossible to tell any signs of photos hoped work – something I would never have known if it weren’t pointed out to me. Some examples of this technique can be seen from some of her photographs like her photo in Japan with the kimono, which presents a slightly blurry surface, which she manages to imitate, also other images like of her in Spain, which replicates the colors and grains to the exact.

Her photographic technique shows her creativity in handling the photographs creating a natural look for it. What makes this series interesting is the sense that Otsuka actually went back in time and took a photograph with her younger self. She did a very good job in creating that essence and making the experience real for the viewers. This simple yet well-created piece takes you to the past to catch a first-hand glimpse of Otsuka’s childhood.

The whole Imagine Finding Me series falls together nicely – each photograph having its unique theme, but always with one similarity: all including two Otsukas. It not only allows us to view into her past but also gives us a unique concept to the possibilities of time travelling. It allows your imaginations to come to life.

Text by Cesilia Faustina