Author: Benoist

  • Eight Twenty

    Wandering through Shinjuku before heading back to work—taking in the lively streets, the neon signs, and the endless energy of the area. Even a short stroll here feels like a mini escape from the daily grind. Always something new to see!

  • Todoroki Falls

    Todoroki Falls is a serene natural spot tucked away in a lush valley, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle of everyday life. The waterfall cascades gently into a clear pool, surrounded by greenery that creates a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere. Its beauty lies in its simplicity—a small but charming waterfall that feels like a…

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    Motown House

    One of Roppongi’s iconic landmarks: Motown. Known for its retro vibes and lively atmosphere, it’s a spot that brings back the spirit of classic Motown music while adding a touch of Tokyo nightlife. A must-visit for anyone exploring the area and looking for a fun, nostalgic experience!

  • Evening with the Boys

    Took the X-T2 with the 23mm f/2 out for a night in Yurakucho with the boys—perfect for capturing the lively atmosphere. The lens handled the low light and street scenes like a champ. Bonus: a GFX made an appearance during the evening, adding some serious gear envy to the mix. Great night, great company, and…

  • XF 23mm f2

    The latest addition to my Fuji XF lens collection is the 23mm f/2 (35mm equivalent), and I’m loving it! It’s super light, incredibly sharp, and focuses lightning fast. I’ve always preferred a 35mm equivalent as my go-to walk-around lens, and this one is a perfect replacement for the Sigma ART I used on my 5D…

  • Kimono Smile

    Kimono smile: spotted two Japanese ladies in beautiful kimonos taking photos in Kamakura. Their graceful poses and bright smiles perfectly matched the traditional charm of the setting. A lovely scene that felt timeless and quintessentially Japanese.

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    Boarding Train

    I’m really happy with the bokeh and colors of the XF 35mm f/2. It’s much lighter than the f/1.4 and focuses significantly faster—perfect for quick shots and everyday use. The weather resistance is an added bonus too. If you’re on the fence, I’d say make the switch—you won’t regret it!

  • Little Restaurants

    Tokyo is packed with little restaurants—every alley and street seems to have a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. I think I read somewhere that it has the highest number of restaurants per capita in the world, which wouldn’t be surprising given the sheer variety. Naturally, among the amazing spots, you’ll find some odd ones…

  • Cute Donut

    Cute donut: visually adorable, but the taste? Not that great. Pretty much what I expected, to be honest. Sometimes the looks outweigh the flavor, but hey, at least it made for a fun picture!