Shiristu Ebisu Chuugaku's Kazami Nonoka achieved a goal she set just months ago with the release of her debut photo collection "Wagugoro" on June 12. At a release event in Tokyo the following day, Kazami reflected on the journey from announcement to completion.

The title plays on her given name—"Waka" (和) means harmony and Japanese tradition. True to that theme, Kazami chose domestic locations over the overseas shoots her groupmates typically do for their photo books. She selected two distinctly Japanese backdrops: snowy Zao in Yamagata and the hot spring town of Izu in Shizuoka.

Kazami, known for her athletic appearances on sports programs like "SASUKE," pushed herself further by attempting activities new to her. She tackled skiing for the first time, preparing beforehand with her father to ensure she could handle the shoots. She also took on kayaking, impressing local staff so much they jokingly offered her a summer job.

Among her favorite shots is a candid side-profile while skiing—capturing her working through the unfamiliar sport. Another standout is a scene with a dog during Izu filming. Shot in March just before her high school graduation, it marks her final photo shoot in an actual school uniform. The dog, a local named Raisin, warmed to her immediately.

Kazami's fellow Ebichu members offered encouraging feedback, with some notably commenting on her leg length in the photos. When asked to self-score the collection, she gave it "150 points"—a nod to the group's lucky number 15.

Looking ahead, Kazami has her sights set higher. She expressed longtime interest in appearing on the variety show "Runaway" and pursuing acting roles. She's also been developing her passion for baking healthier treats at home.

While satisfied with her Japanese-focused debut collection, Kazami already has plans for the next one: shooting in Europe. She acknowledged the challenge—distance and cost—but framed it as motivation to reach new professional heights.