Shikoku Seascape
After a long 9-hour drive from Tokyo, we’re finally getting closer to our destination. The journey’s been tiring but full of changing landscapes and little roadside discoveries. Almost there—can’t wait to stretch out and explore!
Fujifilm XT-2
Here are the latest photos I captured with my Fujifilm X-T2 camera. 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.
Todoroki Falls
Todoroki Falls is a serene natural spot tucked away in a lush valley, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle of everyday life. The waterfall cascades gently into a clear pool, surrounded by greenery that creates a tranquil and refreshing atmosphere. Its beauty lies in its simplicity—a small but charming waterfall that feels like a…
Motown House
One of Roppongi’s iconic landmarks: Motown. Known for its retro vibes and lively atmosphere, it’s a spot that brings back the spirit of classic Motown music while adding a touch of Tokyo nightlife. A must-visit for anyone exploring the area and looking for a fun, nostalgic experience!
Evening with the Boys
Took the X-T2 with the 23mm f/2 out for a night in Yurakucho with the boys—perfect for capturing the lively atmosphere. The lens handled the low light and street scenes like a champ. Bonus: a GFX made an appearance during the evening, adding some serious gear envy to the mix. Great night, great company, and…
XF 23mm f2
The latest addition to my Fuji XF lens collection is the 23mm f/2 (35mm equivalent), and I’m loving it! It’s super light, incredibly sharp, and focuses lightning fast. I’ve always preferred a 35mm equivalent as my go-to walk-around lens, and this one is a perfect replacement for the Sigma ART I used on my 5D…
Kimono Smile
Kimono smile: spotted two Japanese ladies in beautiful kimonos taking photos in Kamakura. Their graceful poses and bright smiles perfectly matched the traditional charm of the setting. A lovely scene that felt timeless and quintessentially Japanese.
Connecting | Learning | Living
Boarding Train
I’m really happy with the bokeh and colors of the XF 35mm f/2. It’s much lighter than the f/1.4 and focuses significantly faster—perfect for quick shots and everyday use. The weather resistance is an added bonus too. If you’re on the fence, I’d say make the switch—you won’t regret it!
Little Restaurants
Tokyo is packed with little restaurants—every alley and street seems to have a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. I think I read somewhere that it has the highest number of restaurants per capita in the world, which wouldn’t be surprising given the sheer variety. Naturally, among the amazing spots, you’ll find some odd ones…
Cute Donut
Cute donut: visually adorable, but the taste? Not that great. Pretty much what I expected, to be honest. Sometimes the looks outweigh the flavor, but hey, at least it made for a fun picture!
Kabukicho
Strolling through Kabukicho in Shinjuku with the X-T2 and 90mm in hand. The lens was perfect for picking out details in the bustling streets—neon signs, narrow alleys, and the energy of the nightlife. The sharpness and bokeh made every shot pop, capturing the vibe of Tokyo’s liveliest district. Always a fascinating place to shoot!
XF 90mm and Dust
I had to return my first Fuji XF 90mm lens because it came with dust inside straight out of the box. The replacement was clean initially, but after just three months of use, I’ve noticed around 20 specks of dust inside. While I understand that this doesn’t impact image quality, it’s frustrating for a lens…
Skytree Driveby
Back in Tokyo, driving past the Tokyo Skytree at night—always a spectacular sight. Tried capturing it with the X-T2, but I couldn’t help wishing it had in-body image stabilization like Panasonic cameras. It would make handheld night shots so much easier! Still, the X-T2 delivers great results when you work around its limits. Almost the…
Hot Pot
What would a trip to China be without a hotpot? It’s a must-try experience, and this time, it included some tasty (and by tasty, I mean flavorful—not making any judgment here) cow stomach. A unique texture and flavor that definitely adds an adventurous twist to the meal. Hotpot never disappoints in delivering surprises!
Meat Preparation
A Chinese chef skillfully cutting meat for a hotpot—every slice precise and deliberate. Watching the preparation adds to the anticipation of the meal, as the thinly sliced meat is key to the perfect hotpot experience. A mix of culinary art and tradition right before your eyes!
Hangzhou
Not the lake, but the streets around the hotel. Hangzhou: skipping the famous West Lake this time and exploring the streets around the hotel instead. A mix of modern shops, local eateries, and everyday life gives a glimpse into the city beyond its tourist spots. Sometimes, the less iconic places are just as interesting!
Seared Tuna
First lunch in Hangzhou: hunger won out, and I didn’t venture far beyond the mall. It turned out to be one of the few “clean” meals of the week—simple, satisfying, and exactly what I needed to recharge after arriving. Sometimes convenience wins!
Dreamliner
A Dreamliner (B787) at the gate in Narita—its sleek design and iconic silhouette always stand out. Watching it sit poised for departure, you can’t help but admire the engineering that make it one of the most impressive aircrafts in the sky. A perfect travel moment!
Japanese Shacks
Every Japanese town seems to have them: crumbling old houses with (very) elderly residents still calling them home. These structures, worn by time and weather, tell a story of resilience and change, standing as reminders of a bygone era amidst modern surroundings. A common but quietly poignant sight.
Yurakucho Rain
Rain in Yurakucho: the perfect chance to test the weather sealing on my X-T2. Between the raindrops and the neon reflections, it was a great setting to shoot. And yes, the camera handled it like a champ—seems all good!
Fresh Pasta
Fresh pasta in Kagurazaka—a delightful new discovery! Handmade and perfectly cooked, it’s a treat to find such a gem in this charming neighborhood. A great spot for Italian comfort food with a touch of Kagurazaka’s unique vibe. Definitely coming back for more!