On a sunny afternoon in mid-May,
Dobuita Street’s colors come out to play,
A jacket and patches, symbols true,
Yokosuka’s past brought into view.
Photo Description – Yokosuka’s Iconic Souvenirs
This photograph captures a quintessential scene from Dobuita Street in Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The iconic “sukajan” jacket and various patches displayed in the store instantly evoke the spirit of Yokosuka. The sukajan, with its intricate embroidery of eagles, tigers, and dragons, is a souvenir jacket that originated post-WWII for American soldiers stationed in Japan. The photo’s muted colors emphasize the nostalgia and timelessness of these classic designs.
Story Behind the Photo – Discovering Dobuita Street’s History
This image was taken on a mid-May afternoon while exploring Dobuita Street in Yokosuka City. The sukajan jacket, a symbol of Yokosuka, is prominently featured, showcasing its vivid embroidery. Originally crafted as souvenirs for American soldiers after World War II, these jackets feature elaborate designs inspired by Japanese kimono motifs. Sold around U.S. military bases in Japan, they became known as “souvenir jackets.” The photograph aims to capture the nostalgic feel of Dobuita Street by highlighting these traditional elements in subdued tones.
From an Amateur Photographer’s Perspective – Capturing Nostalgic Icons
The goal of this photograph was to capture the iconic and nostalgic feel of Dobuita Street through the sukajan jacket and patches. Using a wide-angle lens, I focused on the vibrant embroidery and unique designs that define Yokosuka’s identity. The challenge was to balance the exposure and color tones to evoke a sense of timelessness and nostalgia. By slightly desaturating the colors, the image highlights the cultural significance and historical background of these iconic souvenirs.
Equipment and EXIF Information
- Camera: Olympus PEN-F
- Lens: M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-45mm F4.0 PRO
- Shutter Speed: 1/200 s
- Aperture: ƒ/8
- ISO: 400
Location