Finding Balance with Borja
Leaving behind an eternal football legacy is only half of the big picture. Yes, the extraordinary goals, trophies, and triumphs will forever be cemented in history – however, the other half of a player’s greatness is tactically parked behind a secure defense that limits exposure.
Feeding the Panda
Spanish footballer, and current Celta Vigo puntero, Borja Iglesias, has become a household name for his continuous success on the pitch as a brilliant number nine. Although putting shots on frame at a high clip is one of Borja’s many specialties, the onetwo team has fallen in love with another talent of his - bagging moments in time that give supporters an opportunity to score a glimpse of Borja’s perspective and the world around him. onetwo was fortunate enough to catch up with Borja after he spent his holiday in Japan. Take a minute to dive into Borja’s eye-opening experience, as he discusses the valuable lessons photography and traveling have taught him. Here is what he had to say about his recent journey:
“You know, I got to see and do a lot while I was in Japan. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto and the vibrant city life of Osaka, it felt like I was moving through different worlds while staying in the same country. There are plenty of things to appreciate: the striking architecture, picturesque landscapes, and something I enjoyed the most—the food! Learning about Japanese dishes and snacks, some of which I had never even heard of before, was a treat. Japan’s culinary scene is an art form, from delicate sushi to hearty bowls of ramen. Capturing a photo of a steaming plate of food, a local street vendor, or a quiet corner in a bustling market allowed me to savor and share these moments forever”.
Striking Differences
“Gaining knowledge about different cultures is important to me, and one of the ways I enlighten myself is through photography. For me, photography is more than just taking a snapshot; it’s storytelling. It’s about showing how the neon lights of a Tokyo alley glow brighter after a downpour, how rain transforms reflections into another dimension. Whether it’s a quiet moment in Kyoto’s bamboo forests or the urban sprawl of Osaka with its towering signs and laughter-filled streets, my camera lets me capture the soul of the places I visit. These are the moments that stick with me – the fleeting, the vibrant, the human. I’ve been fortunate enough to play football in some of the biggest stadiums and cities on the planet. I’ve seen it all. But Japan was different.From city to city, I noticed a common thread: cleanliness and respect. Public spaces in Japan are spotless, with no rubbish on the streets—a striking contrast to so many places I’ve visited. The people take collective responsibility, showing a deep respect for their surroundings. It’s a refreshing and inspiring mindset, one that adds to the charm of experiencing the country”.
My Route
“Traveling from Tokyo to Kyoto to Osaka by train gave me a chance to see the seamless blend of Japan’s tradition and modernity. The high-speed trains were an experience in themselves – efficient, quiet, and offering views of changing landscapes that felt like moving postcards. The rain added an unexpected touch of creativity, bringing out the glow of city lights and creating reflective surfaces that turned every photo into something dreamlike. Every destination had its unique character, but the consistent respect for culture and harmony was palpable everywhere”.
Shooters Shoot
“I was able to document my Japan journey using a Fujifilm X100VI (digital) and a Contax T2 (analog). These tools allowed me to experiment and find beauty in the mundane. Like football, photography demands versatility. I tried to capture all types of images that reflected the fun, beauty, and contrasts I encountered. The energy of Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing at night felt as alive as any stadium crowd I’ve played for, while Kyoto’s quiet temples offered a completely different vibe – peaceful and contemplative”.
“Photography has always been near and dear to my heart. If you know me or follow my social media, you’ve probably noticed how much I enjoy sharing pictures of my friends, family, and travels. Through the lens, I can immerse myself in the culture of a place, connecting with the people, their stories, and their environment. It’s a melting pot of experiences that I’m lucky to capture. Whenever I’m done with football, I plan to continue taking and sharing photos, creating life-long memories and stories that bring people together”.
“Now that I’m back home in Vigo, I’m looking forward to drawing inspiration from the natural beauty that surrounds me. The landscapes here are stunning, and I’m eager to explore them with my camera, capturing the essence of the place I call home. But I know I’ll return to Japan one day. There’s so much more to discover, and I can’t wait to see how my perspective and style evolve when I step back into that magical world with my camera in hand. Exploring photography off the pitch is a passion I’ll continue to nurture, wherever life takes me”.
onetwo appreciates every aspect of football and it’s players. In this day and age, it is important for footballers to be able to tell their own stories the way they want to. We would like to thank Borja Iglesias and his team for giving us a chance to share a few views he has found recently.
