Living in Tokyo for roughly two decades, you’d think the novelty would wear off—but this city never stops surprising me. From the quiet hum of early-morning trains to the neon chaos of Shinjuku at night, Tokyo’s rhythm is a constant source of inspiration. Daily life here is a blend of tradition and modernity: vending machines on every corner, temples nestled between skyscrapers, and festivals that bring streets to life. Even mundane errands feel unique, whether it’s navigating crowded markets, exploring new ramen shops, or watching the seasons change in meticulously tended parks. Tokyo’s energy, contrasts, and subtle details make every day a story waiting to be told. It’s a photographer’s dream and a constant reminder that familiarity doesn’t dull magic—it sharpens it.
Tokyo Tower, as seen from Roppongi Hills on a sunny morning, is a sight to behold. The clear skies make the red and white structure pop against the vibrant blue backdrop, while the city sprawls out below in intricate detail. It’s the perfect vantage point to appreciate one of Tokyo’s most iconic landmarks.
It’s always an odd sight for me: rivers transformed into concrete canals with highways running overhead. The stark, industrial design feels so far removed from the natural flow of water, creating a strange blend of urban functionality and lost tranquility. A reminder of how cities adapt and compromise with nature.
Night crossing: always best to look twice before stepping out, even in Japan. The glow of headlights and city lights creates a striking atmosphere, but safety first! Urban streets can be unpredictable, no matter how orderly they might seem.
Went wide angle, large aperture, and close to the ground with the XF 16mm f/1.4 in Kagurazaka at night. The lens captured stunning detail with a shallow depth of field, turning the glowing streetlights and narrow alleys into a dreamy, cinematic scene. This lens continues to amaze, especially in low-light conditions!
Captured the Iron Dragon at Tokyo Daijingu near Iidabashi, and it’s another moment where the X-T2 truly shines. The more I learn to use this camera, the happier I am with my switch from Canon. Paired with the 90mm f/2, which rivals the legendary 135mm f/2 “magic prime” in sharpness and rendering, it feels like…
There are some great bars and restaurants around the new south exit in Shinjuku. The area combines modern design with a laid-back vibe, offering a variety of spots to grab a drink or enjoy a meal. Whether you’re in the mood for Japanese cuisine, international dishes, or just a quiet bar to unwind, this updated…
Took the X-T2 out to capture the Yamanote Line at night, and I’m impressed. The wide dynamic range of the Sony sensor provides so much flexibility for post-processing, especially in handling shadows and highlights from the city lights. The details and tones it retains in low light are fantastic. Me like, indeed!
Tried out the X-T2 at night with the 35mm f/1.4. While the image quality is stunning, the autofocus feels a bit sluggish in low light—not ideal for night shooting. I’m seriously considering switching to the 35mm f/2. It’s faster at focusing and has the added bonus of being weather-resistant (WR), which is always a plus…
Spotted schoolgirls walking back home on their own in Iidabashi, a common and charming sight in Japan. With their neatly pressed uniforms and carefree chatter, it’s a glimpse into everyday life that feels both nostalgic and uniquely Japanese. A quiet moment in the bustling city.
A pink canopy of cherry blossoms greeted me on a short stroll after dropping the little one at daycare. The soft petals overhead and gentle breeze made for a peaceful and refreshing moment to start the day. Spring really knows how to brighten the everyday!
I didn’t realize the tree above Hachiko was a cherry tree until now. Come to think of it, it makes perfect sense—it has to be. Seeing it in bloom adds a nice touch of seasonal beauty to such an iconic spot in Shibuya. A little detail I somehow missed before!
Came back from the US for this? It’s the last days of Hanami, and the rain just won’t stop—it feels more like the rainy season than spring. So much for enjoying the cherry blossoms! At least the rain gives the petals a kind of melancholic beauty, but it’s not the Hanami I was hoping for.
Testing out the different focus modes, including face tracking, in Shinjuku during commuting time was a real eye-opener. The fast-moving crowd and ever-changing scenes were a perfect challenge, and the camera handled it well. Face tracking was especially impressive, locking onto subjects even in the chaos. A great spot to push the camera to its…
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,…
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…
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!
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…
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!
Micro 4/3 cameras are definitely convenient to carry and simple to use, but when it comes to photo quality, my 5D Mark III still takes the crown. The level of detail, dynamic range, and overall depth it captures—even in something as ordinary as this random building—just outshines the Micro 4/3. Sometimes, the bulkier gear is…