Jun Morinaga

Jun Morinaga (b. 1937 Japan, d. 2018 Japan) was a distinguished Japanese photographer known for his contemplative and atmospheric black-and-white photographs that explore the interplay between nature and light. Morinaga began his career as an assistant to the renowned photographer W. Eugene Smith, which deeply influenced his approach to photography. Morinaga is best known for his series River, Its Shadows of Shadows, a poetic exploration of the relationship between water, light, and shadow. His work is marked by a deep sensitivity to the subtleties of natural phenomena, capturing the ephemeral and transient qualities of the environment with a profound sense of stillness and serenity. Morinaga's photographs often evoke a meditative state, inviting viewers to engage in a quiet reflection on the beauty and impermanence of the natural world. His work has been celebrated in exhibitions and publications worldwide, establishing him as a significant figure in the history of Japanese photography.