Praying

Here’s a collection of photos capturing the beauty of sacred spaces—churches, temples, shrines, and cathedrals. Each has its own unique charm, from the intricate stained glass and towering spires of cathedrals to the serene simplicity of Japanese shrines and temples. These places, steeped in history and spirituality, offer stunning architecture and peaceful atmospheres that inspire awe and reflection.

Sensoji Tele
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Sensoji Tele

Switching to the RF70-200mm for Sensoji must have completely changed the perspective! Telephoto zooms are fantastic for picking out intricate details, compressing the scene, and isolating elements that might get lost with a wide-angle. Perfect for framing the temple’s stunning architecture or capturing candid moments from a distance. It’s also a great choice for bringing…

Sensoji Wide
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Sensoji Wide

A sunny June visit to Sensoji in Asakusa, with nearly no tourists, must have been a rare and serene experience! The RF15-35mm was a perfect choice for capturing the grandeur of the temple, from the imposing Kaminarimon Gate to the intricate details of the main hall. Wide angles really shine in such iconic spots, giving…

90mm Daijingu
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90mm Daijingu

Taking the XF 90mm f/2 out for a lunch stroll around Tokyo Daijingu sounds like a fantastic way to enjoy the day. That lens is a portrait powerhouse, with razor-sharp focus and creamy bokeh that will beautifully isolate details of the shrine’s serene atmosphere. From architectural details to quiet moments, it’s a great match for…

Temple Entrance
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Temple Entrance

The entrance of Tokyo Daijingu, one of my favorite shrines in Tokyo, is always a beautiful sight. The peaceful atmosphere, traditional architecture, and intricate wooden torii make it a perfect escape from the city’s bustle. It’s not just a place to visit but to experience a piece of Tokyo’s spiritual heart.

Cemetery Hanami
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Cemetery Hanami

It’s great to be in Tokyo this year (and not away on a business trip) for some fresh Hanami opportunities. This time, I joined the “boys” at a famous cemetery in Tokyo—an unexpectedly lovely spot for cherry blossom viewing. The peaceful atmosphere and the sakura in full bloom made it a unique and memorable experience….

Night Temple
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Night Temple

Captured a night temple shot wide open at f/0.95, and this lens continues to amaze me! The shallow depth of field and creamy bokeh create such a dreamy, atmospheric vibe. It’s perfect for low light and really brings out the magic of nighttime scenes. Absolutely loving this lens!

Sengen New Year
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Sengen New Year

Picking up omikuji at the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Jinja (北口本宮冨士浅間神社), or simply Sengen Jinja, was a serene experience. The soft, golden light of the early afternoon streaming through the trees added a peaceful and almost magical atmosphere to the shrine. A perfect moment to reflect while discovering what the omikuji had in store.