This time, I’m leaving for three months in Japan.

I’m in love, and we want to prepare our life together there.

I’ve studied Japanese for three years. It’s not enough, but I’ll learn quickly once I’m there. I’ve also read a great deal about their way of life. For the past twenty years, I’ve had many Japanese friends. I enjoy their company and feel as though I understand them. In return, they seem to appreciate my sensitivity and calm nature.

I once lived for four years in Paris with a Japanese partner. When our story ended, I travelled to Japan for a month — a magical month. That was the beginning of my new love story. Everything happened so fast. Now I’m returning to find work and secure a visa. Then, marriage… My new partner, Sato, comes from a family of artisans and artists. I know I will feel at home among them.

Until now, I have been making children’s clothes and even launched my own line. But for several months now, I’ve wanted to stop. My motivation has faded, and photography is taking up more and more space in my life. I feel alive again with a camera in my hands.

Still, I let myself be persuaded to keep going in fashion, because in Japan they know many people. Their network will surely help me find work. Sato is very convincing, and I don’t want to seem unwilling. “You can return to photography later, once you’re settled.”

My heart hesitates, but my mind wants to believe. I want to put all my energy into making our story work. After all, I’ve always thought my clothes would do well in Japan. I’ve already had several Japanese clients. I have stock — I’m going to sell it.

Japan – April and October to December 2012