Connecting

Here’s a collection of pictures about railways—tracks stretching into the horizon, bustling platforms, quiet rural stations, and trains in motion. They capture the rhythm and character of travel by rail, from the timeless charm of vintage trains to the sleek lines of modern high-speed rail. A glimpse into the journeys and stories along the tracks.

  • |

    Couple

    Public displays of affection (PDA) in Japan tend to be quite reserved compared to some other cultures. Holding hands is widely accepted and seen as a sweet gesture, but anything more intimate is typically kept private. This cultural nuance reflects Japan’s emphasis on modesty and social harmony, where subtlety often speaks louder than bold gestures….

  • |

    Night Train

    The RF50mm f/1.2L truly shines in night photography, capturing pin-point sharpness where it matters and enveloping the rest in that luscious, creamy bokeh. It’s amazing how this lens can transform something as simple as a railway station into a cinematic masterpiece, with glowing lights and soft blurred details adding so much atmosphere. A perfect tool…

  • |

    Commuter Train

    Those small train stations just outside central Tokyo have a charm all their own—unassuming yet impeccably maintained, with a quiet, timeless vibe. Pairing the R6’s IBIS with lens IS makes capturing these scenes a breeze, even at low shutter speeds. Perfect for preserving the subtle motion of commuters or the stillness of an empty platform…

  • | | |

    Suidobashi

    Bringing the “bazooka” (EF400mm) to Suidobashi must have been a fun experiment! That lens is perfect for creating a stunning compression effect on the platform, pulling the scene together and making everything feel tightly packed and dramatic. Such a great way to turn a mundane setting into something visually striking.

  • |

    Platform

    Platform shots never get old, especially when paired with a narrow depth of field. The blurred edges and sharp focal point create that satisfying perspective that pulls you right into the scene. There’s something timeless about capturing the rhythm and geometry of train platforms—keep them coming!

  • | |

    Shimbashi

    A station agent carefully retrieving an item from the tracks—a quiet moment that speaks volumes about dedication and safety in Japan’s rail system. It’s these small, routine acts that keep everything running smoothly. Calm, efficient, and reassuring to witness.

  • |

    Fifteen

    Platform 15 at Shinjuku Station—where the endless flow of people meets the structured chaos of one of the busiest stations in the world. There’s something captivating about the contrast of movement and stillness here, as trains arrive and depart like clockwork. A true slice of Tokyo life.

  • | |

    X-H1 IBIS

    With IBIS on the X-H1, even small prime lenses can be stabilized: here the 23mm/f2 handheld at 1/4s. Long exposure with motion blur creates such dynamic and artistic shots. Whether it’s streaking lights, flowing water, or blurred movement of people, it adds a sense of energy and time to an image. The effect transforms everyday…

  • |

    Subway Speed

    Testing the X-H1 with the 10-24mm to see if IBIS makes a difference, but it turns out I still can’t push beyond 1/4s—about the same as I could manage with the X-T2. Not that I’m complaining, as 1/4s is already pretty solid for handheld shots. Just wanted to see if the IBIS would let me…