Looking back at my favourite pictures, it’s clear that while having decent gear helps, it’s not the defining factor in creating a great photo. Once your equipment meets a baseline level of quality—sharp optics, reliable focus, and decent dynamic range—everything else boils down to creativity, timing, and vision. The magic lies in the story, the light, and the emotion captured, not the brand of your camera or how expensive your lens is. Few of these shots were taken with simple setups, proving that technique, perspective, and patience always outshine gear obsession. That said, it’s important to own a camera you’re happy to use and willing to carry—one that suits your style and feels natural in your hands and fits in your bag.
What would a baseball game in Japan be without the beer vendors? These hard-working individuals navigate the stands with kegs strapped to their backs, tirelessly going up and down the stairs to keep the crowd refreshed. It’s a tough job, but their cheerful energy and quick service are part of the unique charm of Japanese…
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!
Back at Takaragawa Onsen, home to the largest outdoor bath in Japan—this time with lots of snow, making it even more magical! My brother and I had the place almost entirely to ourselves, though I think he was a little disappointed with the lack of company. Shooting these photos was an adventure in itself—I was…
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!
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…
I’m really happy with this shot of Tokyo Tower framed beautifully at the Zojoji Temple
With elaborate lighting, a jelly fish simply look amazing. Shot at Sumidagawa Aquarium, next to Tokyo Skytree – great place for kids. All these shots (and more) are available on Getty Images.
At the northernmost tip of Ibaraki Prefecture, just two kilometers from the border with Fukushima, lies Izura, a series of rocky inlets overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Meaning “five inlets,” this area is celebrated not only for its striking natural beauty but also for its rich cultural and artistic heritage, particularly from the turn of the…
A stunning sunset at Lake Tahoe’s Sand Harbor, with the serene waters reflecting the fiery colors of the sky. The smooth, round boulders scattered along the shoreline added a unique charm, perfectly complementing the peaceful atmosphere. A moment of pure tranquility and natural beauty!
A JR railway platform at night in Tokyo, captured in black and white, transforms into a scene of quiet intensity. The interplay of light and shadow accentuates the architectural lines, while the glow of distant trains and platform signs adds a touch of urban drama. Passengers, blurred in motion or standing still, take on a…
