Of all the sequences in Momo16, my favorite is definitely the hot dog scene. It’s not the phallic nature of the snack involved, though of course I could riff for that on hours. What I enjoy is the everyday nature of this scenario, how she looks young and innocent in the first couple of shots, then there’s a hint of mischief in the third shot… and then the last shot and pose - wowza, she’s definitely got it working there, with the smile and the pose and everything. That last shot is currently my favorite Momoko picture ever.
I never did get around to printing some favorite shots from Momoko’s second photobook, so let’s start with this one!
And to close off this momentous day, American Wota has the grand finale.
Mad pilot hurtling forward, you look straight ahead!
As a member of Buono!, many minds did you boggle.
For such Idol Greatness, you were born and bred,
The future’s so bright, better put on your goggles!
Momoko, O Momoko!
The future is yours, wherever you go!
Happy Sweet Sixteenth Birthday, Idol Of Such Sweet Bliss
May your life be fulfilling, no opportunities missed.
Momoko! Oh! Momoko!
You’ve earned the deep loyalty of the wota who know
What makes you so special, so charming, complex,
I wish you only success in whatever comes next.
