Beyond the Sword
This Field Note takes me away from forests, wetlands and migrating birds, and into a very different environment: the Spanish Iaido Championships held in Madrid on June 13. At first glance, it could not be further from the landscapes and wildlife that usually occupy my attention. Yet after spending a full day photographing the event, I found more similarities than differences.
Javi Tirado from Andalucia, Champion in Godan category and team championships
The championship brought together the strongest representatives from regions across Spain. Throughout the day, competitors faced each other in individual categories ranging from mudan to godan, followed by the team competition. Andalucia emerged as the most successful region, claiming the team title as well as victories in the three categories: Godan, Yondan and Shodan.
Focus by Mar Vique from Andalucia, Champion in Yondan category and team championships
Iaido presents a fascinating challenge for a photographer. Unlike many martial arts, there is no physical opponent. The contest unfolds through the precise execution of kata, predetermined forms that combine technique, timing, concentration and presence. Men and women compete together. Age, size and physical strength become secondary. What matters is the quality of movement and the depth of understanding behind it.
Juan José Garcia from Madrid, Champion in Sandan category and 2nd in team championships
From a photographic perspective, I quickly realized how much this environment reminded me of wildlife photography. Success depends first on understanding the subject. In nature, knowing animal behaviour helps anticipate a decisive moment. In Iaido, familiarity with the kata serves the same purpose. The difference between an ordinary frame and a meaningful one often lasts only a fraction of a second.
Pedro Ocio from Madrid
The challenge begins long before pressing the shutter. Each sequence follows a precise rhythm. The draw of the sword, the cut, the pause, the gaze, the return to stillness. Missing the timing by even a moment can mean missing the photograph entirely. Anticipation becomes more important than reaction.
Beginning of the cutting, Sanchez from Balears
Light offered its own difficulties throughout the day. Sports halls are rarely designed with photography in mind. Uneven illumination, mixed color temperatures and distracting backgrounds constantly compete for attention. The environment demands flexibility and patience, much like working in difficult weather conditions outdoors.
After the first cutting, Serrano from Galicia
Movement itself presents another layer of complexity. A photographer must remain unobtrusive, avoiding anything that could distract competitors who are often operating at the limits of their concentration. This means choosing positions carefully, moving sparingly and accepting that not every angle is available. Much like photographing wildlife, sometimes the best approach is simply to stay still and wait.
Alicia Loiti from Valencia
Whenever possible, I tried to work at eye level or slightly below. This perspective brings the viewer closer to the experience and emphasizes the relationship between posture, focus and intent. It also reveals details that can easily be overlooked from a standing viewpoint: the tension in the hands, the precision of the grip, the stillness before movement begins.
Just before the cutting, Santiago Gallardo from Andalucia
What interested me most throughout the day, however, was not the sword or even the technique. It was the intensity visible in the faces of the competitors. Moments of complete concentration have a unique visual quality. The outside world seems to disappear, leaving only the kata, the breath and the present moment. These are the moments I found myself searching for with the camera.
Gonzalo Herranz from Castilla y Léon
By the end of the championship, medals had been awarded, champions crowned and teams celebrated. Yet what stayed with me most was the dedication shared by everyone on the floor. Regardless of category, experience or result, each competitor contributed to an atmosphere defined by discipline, respect and commitment. My congratulations to all participants and organizers for a remarkable day and for allowing me the opportunity to witness and photograph it.
Happy faces of Team Andalucia