Morning Scene: Heading to School

On a clear autumn morning, Kaori—the head priestess—runs down the approach to Hikami Shrine, located near the summit of Mount Hikami in Nara Prefecture, while wearing her uniform. [Kaori] A shrine maiden serving the Sun Deity (Himiko); 18 years old; actress-like physique (measurements: B83/W50/H85); wearing a navy blue jumper dress uniform and carrying a navy blue sports bag. [Dress] Unlined, lightweight fabric, square neckline. A combination of a sleeveless, snug-fitting bodice and a tight, above-the-knee skirt. Features slits positioned at the sides (replacing side seams) rather than the front or back; the slits extend from the hem to the upper thigh. No front-panel slits, no front-side slits, and no pleats. [Innerwear] White chiffon long-sleeved blouse with cuffed sleeves and a standard collar; navy blue bow tie. [Footwear] Black knee-high socks and high-heeled loafers. [Pose] Kaori is running down the slope, facing toward the viewer. Her legs and cardiovascular system, honed through regular competitive cycling, still have plenty of reserve energy. Though slightly out of breath, she exchanges brief greetings with passing worshippers while maintaining a serious running pace. The wind pressure from her run causes her hair to stream naturally behind her. A cheerful fairy sits atop her head, waving its arms to encourage her. [Background] Stone steps descending a 10% grade in front of Hikami Shrine (near the summit of Mt. Hikami, Nara). Handrails line both sides. In the background at the top of the slope stands a majestic vermilion gate (reminiscent of Usa Jingu). [Lighting] The morning sun from the east glitters behind her; shadowed areas are balanced with fill light. [Photography] One shot from a series taken with a standard lens from the bottom of the slope, carefully framed to ensure the inside of her skirt remains unseen while she runs. A photograph taken by a local daily newspaper photographer for publication in the paper and on the website.