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| Morning Musume’s Makino Maria to Release Blooming MARIA 25 Photobook in February 2026 (Photo: Instagram) |
Morning Musume ’25 member Makino Maria has officially announced her 11th solo photobook, titled Blooming MARIA 25, and the timing couldn’t be more symbolic. Set for release on 2 February 2026, the photobook drops on the very day she turns 25, turning the project into a personal milestone rather than just another release.
Maria Makino revealed the title and cover through her blog and social platforms, instantly sparking buzz among fans. The cover keeps things refreshingly simple: a tight close-up shot with natural, almost bare makeup, placing the focus entirely on her expression.
Instead of heavy styling or dramatic concepts, the visual leans into calm confidence and transparency, hinting that this photobook is more about who she is now than who she used to be.
Blooming MARIA 25 is Maria’s 11th solo photobook and also her first release as the group’s 11th sub-leader. At 24, she’s standing at the edge of a new phase in both her idol career and personal life.
The theme of the book is described as “the answer at 25”, capturing the space between youth and maturity without forcing a clear label on either. It’s not about reinvention, but reflection.
The entire shoot took place in Perth, Australia, a location chosen for its balance of nature and city life. From open skies and quiet beaches to historic architecture and glowing night views, the setting mirrors the duality of Maria herself.
Relaxed daytime cuts show her at ease, while evening scenes bring out a more composed, thoughtful presence. The result is a visual diary that feels lived-in rather than staged.
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Photography duties were handled by Masafumi Nakayama, who focused on drawing out Makino Maria’s natural charm rather than relying on elaborate setups.
Several preview cuts have already drawn attention, including sunset shots by the ocean and elegant dress scenes inside a historic royal theatre with over a century of history. Each location adds a different layer to the story, making the photobook feel cohesive without being repetitive.
In terms of editions, the standard version is priced at 3,300 yen before tax, while a special edition featuring a making-of DVD will also be available through selected official shops at 4,300 yen before tax.
Fans who pre-order through specific channels will receive bonus photo cards, with a limited chance to win a personally signed copy, a detail that has only intensified early demand.
Fan reactions online have been overwhelmingly positive. Many praised the natural cover, calling it one of her strongest visuals to date, while others highlighted how calm and confident she looks compared to earlier releases.
Some fans described Makino Maria 11th photobook as a “reward” for long-time supporters, especially given how selective management can be when approving solo photobook projects within the group.
Releasing a photobook is often seen as a quiet vote of confidence from management, reflecting stable popularity and strong fan support. Makino Maria herself described the project as a “surprise present” and a gift for those who have supported her journey so far, adding that she hopes people will open it and think, “This is amazing.”
With Blooming MARIA 25, Makino Maria isn’t chasing trends or dramatic change. Instead, she’s offering a snapshot of where she stands right now, honest, composed, and quietly glowing.
Are you drawn to the natural concept, the overseas setting, or the symbolism behind the timing?