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.
Tucked deep in the valley, Ainokura (相倉) is the most secluded village in the Gokayama region. It boasts nearly 20 traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, their steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfalls. Unlike the more accessible Ogimachi, Ainokura has managed to stay quieter and less commercialized, offering a peaceful, authentic atmosphere. Many of the farmhouses…
Kanazawa is a city steeped in history and culture, known for its Edo Period charm, samurai heritage, and vibrant artisan traditions. As the seat of the powerful Maeda Clan, it became a hub of art, craftsmanship, and learning, rivaling the cultural significance of Kyoto and Edo. Remarkably, Kanazawa escaped destruction during WWII, leaving much of…
A few days ago, Tokyo’s sky put on a spectacular show with some amazing clouds. Big, dramatic formations rolled across the skyline, their shapes and textures catching the light in the most stunning way. A perfect moment for the camera to capture nature’s art above the urban sprawl.
Took the GX85 out for a spin at night, and it handled pretty well! The face AF tracking was impressively reliable, even in low light. Shooting straight JPEGs, the results were solid with manageable noise up to ISO 3000—beyond that, the denoise algorithm softens things too much. For a micro 4/3, though, it’s not bad…
Kanda Myojin, a ~1,300-year-old shrine, has found a unique way to connect with modern culture while preserving tradition. Located near Akihabara, the shrine caters to the “gods of the geeks,” and this is most evident in its special ema. These small wooden plaques, typically used for writing wishes at shrines, are anything but ordinary here….
Kanda Myojin is one of the few shrines in Tokyo that survived the WWII bombings, preserving a rich history in the heart of the city. The current structure dates back to 1934, rebuilt after the Great Kanto Earthquake’s fires. The shrine is dedicated to three deities: Daikokuten, the god of good harvest and matrimony; Ebisu,…
My first Shake Shack experience in Tokyo was surprisingly pleasant. The key is to keep it simple—skip the fries, ignore the overpriced drinks, and go straight for a classic burger. Juicy, flavorful, and satisfying, it’s the one thing they truly nail. Sometimes, less is more!
This might just be my favorite shot from last week’s visit to San Francisco. The composition, the mood—it all came together perfectly. Now the real dilemma: color or black and white? The color version captures the vibrancy and life of the scene, while the black and white emphasizes texture, contrast, and timelessness. Tough call, but…
I enjoy walking, but there are times when the weather has other plans. When it’s too hot or the rain’s coming down hard, hopping into a taxi suddenly feels like a small luxury. A quick break from the elements, and sometimes even a chance to enjoy the city from a different perspective.
Viron Shibuya: A little slice of Paris in Tokyo. Yes, it’s on the pricey side, but their Oignon Soup? Absolutely worth it—rich, hearty, and downright phenomenal. Bon appétit!
