"My Pleasure - my dear life" is an exhibition and sale of photos taken by celebrity Misako Yasuda with her beloved Leica, currently being held at Isetan Salone in Tokyo Midtown. It runs until May 8th. Isetan Salone is a select store that embodies the essence of Isetan. The exhibit features photos taken by Yasuda, who carefully considered how they would complement the store's ambiance. What thoughts were running through her mind as she took the photo? We spoke to Misako Yasuda at Isetan Salone. What motivated you to start taking photos? How does it feel to have so many people see your work? I held my first photo exhibition last year, and it was truly a joyful experience. I started taking photos about 13 years ago, and as my collection of work grew, I thought it would be great to hold a photo exhibition someday.

I've often traveled overseas for work such as gravure shoots, and whenever I came across beautiful scenery, I thought I had to capture it in a photograph and show it to everyone! That's what got me started taking photos.

--Which camera do you use?

At first, I used disposable cameras, and then I started using film cameras. However, both required development fees, so I switched to digital cameras, and while trying out cameras from various manufacturers, I discovered Leica cameras. It was only after I discovered Leica that I truly felt I was able to take the photos I wanted. I've been using Leica cameras ever since.

-What kind of moment makes you want to press the shutter?

I want to press the shutter when something moves me, like "I love this view" or "It feels somehow nostalgic." The feelings that arise within me at that time may be conveyed directly to the viewer through the photograph, or it may reach them in a completely different form. But I think that's interesting in itself. Everyone has different life experiences and experiences, and each person's senses are different, so I would be happy if people who view my work feel something new from them.

-Which of the filming locations for this work made the biggest impression on you?

I discovered many things while filming in Roppongi. I had an image of it being urban, but there is actually a lot of greenery, and at night you can see the moon and stars clearly. On the other hand, the lights of the cars driving through the city are like jewels. There were so many picturesque places, so it was fun walking around with my camera in hand. 。


■ Also keep an eye out for the collaboration with fashion brand LUGHA

-At this year's Isetan Salone, there will also be a collaboration item between Yasuda and LUGHA.

That's right. This time, I attached antique buttons of my choice to a LUGHA shirt. I think the appeal of LUGHA shirts is the balance of basic and individuality, so I offer three types of buttons so that each wearer can choose the one that suits their taste. The one I'm wearing today has genuine turquoise buttons on the handles and silver buttons on the chest. I also have one with buttons inspired by my dog, Hannah, and one in London colors.

I recommend styling the standard length one with silver accessories, and I think it goes well with denim. The long length one is also cute when worn open.

-I heard you had fun choosing the buttons together with the staff.

Yes. We chose in a friendly atmosphere from start to finish. Actually, I was scouted at Isetan Kyoto. During spring break after I had just started university, I was looking at the shoe section at Isetan Kyoto with a friend, saying "Now that I'm a university student, I want to have some stylish sandals for spring," when I was scouted. So, if it weren't for Isetan, I wouldn't be here now (laughs).