Rainy Drive
Rainy drive: just the kind of weather that makes leaving home on a Sunday to head to the airport for work even less appealing. Gloomy skies, wet roads, and the promise of a long week ahead—what a combination.
Panasonic Lumix GX85
Here are the latest photos I captured with my Panasonic Lumix GX85 camera (also known as the GX80 in some regions). These samples showcase how effectively this camera performs across diverse settings, conditions, and subjects, thus providing a comprehensive look at its real-world performance. These should help you decide if this camera could be the perfect addition to your kit.
Perfect Timing
Planned to get some work done at Starbucks, but of course, the iPad decided it was the perfect time for an update. So much for being productive—ended up sipping coffee and watching the progress bar instead. Classic.
Starbucks Smile
Good service at Starbucks is a given, but in Japan, it comes with the added charm of the famous “Starbucks smile.” The staff’s politeness and warm demeanor make every visit feel welcoming, whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or settling in for a while. It’s a little touch that makes a big difference.
Thai Curry Time
Time for a delicious curry at my favorite Thai restaurant. There’s something about the balance of sweet, spicy, and creamy in Thai curry that I find irresistible—somehow, I even prefer it to Indian curry. Maybe it’s the addition of coconut milk or the fresh herbs, but it always hits the spot perfectly.
Sanma Season
If you visit Japan in autumn, be sure to try Sanma (サンマ), or Pacific Saury. This seasonal delicacy is a highlight of Japanese cuisine, known for its rich, savory flavor. Grilled to perfection and served simply with grated daikon and soy sauce, it’s a dish that perfectly captures the taste of autumn in Japan. Don’t…
Viron Shibuya
Breakfast at Viron in Shibuya is a treat—admittedly on the pricey side, but the perk of taking leftover bread home softens the blow. Their pastries and bread are top-notch, perfect for a leisurely morning. Also, check out the light effects captured with the GX85; it adds a warm, inviting touch to the scene, making even…
Picnic
A lovely Sunday finally arrived after days of relentless typhoons and heavy rains—perfect weather for a picnic. The park was alive with scenes of Japanese couples and elegantly dressed ladies relaxing on the grass, enjoying the rare sunshine. A peaceful, picturesque moment capturing the calm after the storm.
Urbanscape
Roaming the back streets of Akihabara, it’s striking how much has changed over the past decade. Once a treasure trove of niche electronics and underground otaku culture, many of the tiny, cluttered shops have given way to more polished stores and cafes. While the area still holds its unique charm, the shifts are a reminder…
Darth Vader
Spotted Darth Vader and the stormtroopers holding court at Yodobashi Akiba. Nothing like a little Star Wars flair in the middle of a tech megastore to brighten the shopping trip. The Force is clearly strong with Akihabara’s geek culture!
Akihabara Station
On my way to Yodobashi Camera, I couldn’t resist grabbing a few more platform shots. The movement, the colors, and the endless flow of commuters always make Tokyo’s train stations an endless source of inspiration. A quick detour with my camera before diving into the gadget paradise!
Good Morning Shibuya
Met up with a friend and his stylish X-Pro2 for coffee in Shibuya. Of course, I had my trusty little Lumix along for the ride. It’s always fun comparing shots and gear over a good cup of coffee in one of Tokyo’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Cameras, caffeine, and conversation—a perfect trio!
Handheld Long Exposure
Once again, the little Lumix delivered impressive results—this time, a 1/10s handheld shot capturing just the right amount of motion blur on a Tokyo train platform. The combination of image stabilization and sharp optics made it possible to freeze the moment while keeping the energy and movement of the scene alive. A small camera packing…
Sansai Soba
Enjoyed a bowl of delicious Sansai Soba in Hakone. Sansai (山菜), or mountain vegetables, add a fresh and earthy flavor to the dish, perfectly complementing the warm, savory broth and buckwheat noodles. A simple yet satisfying taste of traditional Japanese cuisine, especially after exploring the serene beauty of Hakone.
Old School
Phone, book, or newspaper—it doesn’t really matter when you’re on your own, does it? Each one is just a way to pass the time and escape into your own little world. But when you’re with someone at a café or restaurant, it’s a whole different story. That’s when the screen goes down, and the conversation…
Night Buzz
At the live broadcast of Abema News from Roppongi Hills, the pretty girls on set had a peculiar role—smiling, nodding enthusiastically, and chiming in with the occasional light or overly agreeable comment. It’s a common trope in Japanese TV, where charm and energy often take center stage over substance. Still, it adds a certain polished,…
Driving | Highlighting | Learning | Revealing
Tokyo Tunnels
Impressive results with a slow shutter speed using the Panasonic Leica DG Summilux 12mm f/1.4 on the GX85. This little camera continues to amaze me—compact but packed with features. The 5-axis in-body sensor stabilization is a game-changer, letting me capture sharp shots even in challenging conditions. Honestly, it outpaces many DSLRs in this regard. Canon,…
Relaxing Bars
Tokyo is a treasure trove of cozy, relaxing bars, perfect for winding down with a nightcap. Tucked away in quiet corners or hidden on upper floors, these spots offer everything from expertly crafted cocktails to rare whiskeys, all served with a touch of Japanese hospitality. An ideal way to end the evening in style.
Rainy Shibuya
With a typhoon on the horizon, I headed to Shibuya armed with my GX85 and two stellar Lumix/Leica primes: the NOCTICRON 42.5mm f/1.2 and the SUMMILUX 12mm f/1.4. The mix of rain and neon reflections made for dramatic scenes, and the lenses didn’t disappoint. The 42.5mm delivered creamy bokeh and sharp portraits, while the 12mm…