Author: Benoist

Goodbye Canon

Goodbye Canon

End of a 15 years era for me: goodbye Canon ! Let’s be honest, I’m not a pro and I’m getting tired of carrying so much weight around. The 5Dmk4 was also a huge disappointment for me: it is lacking some of the basic features I learned to love from my little Panasonic (electronic shutter,…

Audi S4

Audi S4

Another test drive thanks to Audi Ikebukuro: a brand new 2017 Audi S4, and when I say brand new it’s not a figure of speech: it only had 30km on the odometer when they gave me the keys! I used to own the previous generation and this one is even better. Just makes it too…

Fujisan Sunset

Fujisan Sunset

The Hakone Skyline is a fantastic route for breathtaking views of Fujisan. Winding through the mountains, it offers clear vantage points where the iconic peak dominates the horizon, especially on clear days. A perfect drive for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting to soak in the beauty of Mount Fuji!

Focal Difference

Focal Difference

Same spot, same camera, but two completely different looks thanks to using two different focal lengths. A wider lens captures the full scene, offering a sense of scale and context, while a longer focal length zooms in on the details, creating a more focused and intimate perspective. Just a reminder of how much your lens…

Amazake
|

Amazake

Just when I thought I could enjoy a peaceful cup of Amazake in Hakone, a bus pulled up and unleashed a horde of noisy tourists. So much for a quiet moment! Guess I’ll have to savor the Amazake and tune out the chaos.

Snow Bath
| |

Snow Bath

And now, as promised, here are some pictures taken from inside the baths at Takaragawa Onsen. The warm steam rising from the water, the snow-covered surroundings, and the peaceful atmosphere make it such a relaxing and unique experience. Truly the perfect way to unwind and connect with nature—pure bliss!

Purple Tokyo

Purple Tokyo

A beautiful sunset from the Bunkyo Civic Center painted the sky in shades of purple, creating a mesmerizing view. The blend of the city skyline with the vibrant hues of dusk made the moment truly magical. Watching Tokyo transition from day to night in such stunning colors is always unforgettable!

Fifty Shades of Orange

Fifty Shades of Orange

A beautiful sunset over the Shinjuku skyline with Mt. Fuji in the background—an absolutely stunning view! I was hoping to catch Diamond Fuji, but it turns out I got the date wrong. Still, the scene didn’t disappoint, with the city lights and the iconic mountain creating a perfect blend of urban and natural beauty. Maybe…

Sengen Jinja
|

Sengen Jinja

Heavy snowfall greeted us during our recent visit to the Sengen Jinja—officially known as Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Jinja (北口本宮冨士浅間神社). The snow blanketed the shrine grounds, adding a serene and magical touch to its already majestic atmosphere. The towering trees and traditional architecture looked even more enchanting under the soft, white cover. A truly unforgettable…

Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower

The illuminated Tokyo Tower is always a stunning sight but notoriously tricky to shoot, especially when it comes to nailing the white balance. The warm glow of the tower contrasts with the cooler tones of the city at night, making it a challenge to capture the scene just right. Still, it’s worth the effort every…

Snow Drive
| |

Snow Drive

Beyond sushi, geishas, and Pokémon, Japan deserves recognition for the incredible snowfalls that blanket the northern parts of Honshu. It’s not unusual to see over a meter of snow in just a single day, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland. This shot, taken on our way back from Naeba, captures the aftermath of one…

Ryokan Food
|

Ryokan Food

Staying at a nice ryokan always means the chance to enjoy incredible, carefully prepared food. However, I do wish there were more breakfast options. As much as I appreciate the traditional salty dishes like grilled fish and pickles, I just can’t handle them first thing in the morning—I need my coffee and bread to start…

Purple Date
|

Purple Date

The ambient lighting at the top of Tokyo Tower is just stunning—especially the purple glow! It adds a unique and calming vibe to the space, making the experience of taking in Tokyo’s breathtaking views feel even more special. A perfect touch to an already iconic spot!

Tokyo Tower Panorama

Tokyo Tower Panorama

Tokyo Tower panorama: It’s been a while since I last went to the top of Tokyo Tower, but it’s always worth it. The view of the city is breathtaking, especially at dusk when the lights of Tokyo start to shimmer. A perfect spot for capturing wide, stunning shots of the sprawling metropolis, blending the colors…

Zojoji Temple
|

Zojoji Temple

Ideally located near Tokyo Tower, Zojoji Temple is a historic and spiritual landmark that plays a central role in Tokyo’s New Year celebrations. With its striking mix of traditional architecture and the modern backdrop of the tower, the temple is a stunning place to welcome the new year. Visitors flock here to join the joyous…

Subway
|

Subway

In the subway with my Sigma ART 35mm f/1.4—a lens that never disappoints. The wide aperture handles the low light beautifully, creating sharp, detailed shots with creamy bokeh. Even in such a mundane setting, it makes every frame look cinematic and polished. Always a pleasure to shoot with this gem!