6 weeks in Osaka, Japan - a different perspective

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I've spent the last 6 weeks in Osaka, Japan; taking some personal time as well as editing some commercial work I've been doing lately. As you'll probably have noticed, I've not really been uploading to my KZbin channel much this year. It's not intentional, it's just sort of happened (or rather... not happened), as I've focused elsewhere on things such as commercial projects and personal health. Whilst in Osaka, I've had such a warm welcome from everyone that I wanted to share this energy in some format.
I've got some major changes coming up which I'll share when I can. Most notably is that I'll be moving out of London (any guesses where...?)
In the meantime, this video is a bit of an update, with some first impressions and testing of a new anamorphic lens recently sent to me by Sirui. This is the Sirui 35mm T2.9 1.6x anamorphic for Fujifilm X-Mount. Use code 'JoeAllam' for a discount: allam.co/sirui...
The other lens I've been using extensively in Osaka, is the Sigma 35mm: allam.co/sigma35 via this adapter allam.co/fringer
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#Japan #Osaka #Fujifilm #Photography #Travel #TravelPhotography

[@Mindartcreativity]

Joe, I'm a long time viewer (2016-2017) and I think I know what's up. As a man I know when another man struggles and what he's going through. But we don't talk about it to each other we just nod in approval, in support, in understanding and that's what I did, even through the screen. I hope you get through this well but take your time to heal and gather new strength. On a personal level, you have been the biggest inspiration for me to pick up a camera back in early 2017 after I discovered your channel. I was done with school and had absolutely no plan of what to do next but your videos about photography and creativity motivated me to pick up a camera and give it a go myself... and it took me on my own journey. I wish you all the best for the future, whatever it may bring.

[@paulfournierphoto]

Hey Joe! Crazy how invested in your life I am, on a personal level, from watching your videos for years. I don’t personally know you but it feels like I do. You have been the main inspiration for me to pick up a camera, take a huge interest in travels and even start my own KZbin channel just because you inspired it in me from the very first videos I saw of you exploring Japan. I hope this rough patch you are going through clears up and thank you for sharing this video with the world. Your community will be here for the next chapter 🍻

[@joeallam]

Thanks man, I really appreciate the support and encouragement, but also humbled to hear how you’ve gained your inspirations 🙌

[@ThereGoesSpider]

@@joeallam Sorry to hear about you and Elly.🙏🏻

[@adaywithp]

Hey Joe! Silent supporter from Thailand for a few years now. My boyfriend and I love watching your videos, you capture Japan beautifully 🥺 So so glad to see an update from you here, but also hope you don't feel too pressured to share until you're ready! 🤍

[@joeallam]

Thanks for the support and appreciate the kind words 🙏 As always, my camera is helping me through the next journey and always hoping to be able to create more

[@etnes10]

Joe, even when you are struggling to make a good story in your videos, what I really like about them is the feeling and emotion you bring in them. Watching your videos feels like a nice hug ^^.

[@joeallam]

That’s so kind, thank you! Big hugs back 🤗

[@senbismonte]

I've been watching your vids since 2016. I learned a lot from you! You're the one I always look up to whenever I want to see Japan content. I think I know what you're dealing with right now but all I can say is we are all here for you. Avid fan of your content and your ideas! I know you will get through it, well we all get through to our problems because that's what life is all about. Keep pushing man! 🔥

[@brycesuzuki591]

Osaka culture is amazing. It’s still Japan, but so much more open and fun than other regions. I suspect that you and Elly have ended things … If so, I’m sure it’s a difficult time. I wish you both the best. Hang in there and keep creating!

[@vrakula]

Yeah pretty obvious they have split up :(

[@tunedcentral]

It's been weeks since I touched my camera, sitting in the desk dusty, but videos with footage like this really do inspire me to go out and shoot more.

[@trunksoli]

Joe, I don’t think you realize how talented you are. Especially in creating very emotional videos that connect to our emotions...I will always be interested and follow your work. Wish you all the best in these difficult times!

[@hulobok]

Joe, my friend. You are one of the only creators where I go back and rewatch your videos just to study some of your shots and editing. Love when I find some things like transitions or interesting compositions to nerd over. That said, just wanted to drop a quick note to say hi, and encourage you to keep creating and using your art to get through the rough patch. If you are ever in Toronto or area again, let me know, would be happy to show you some spots. All the best.

[@joeallam]

Such a kind comment - thank you! Art will always be a part of my life in as much as engaging with it via music, films and other media, to personally making it, as a means to getting through everything the world throws at us 🙌 Humbled to hear my works has an impact for you too 🙏

[@kennyelder3419]

Beautiful film with a personally poignant message. I, too, am learning that our lenses are everything. Thank you for the education and inspiration. Hang in there.

[@nerucheung]

The vibes in Osaka are a lot more chill compared to Tokyo, I love both but Osaka has a special place in my heart

[@ThatComicsDad]

Just got back from 4 months living in Japan. I was lucky to spend a month in Osaka and truly fell in love with the place. The people are so friendly, welcoming and accepting. My wife and I are planning to do annual visits to Osaka every year to spend time with friends. Thank you for sharing this!

[@iantovey7132]

My desire to visit Japan has grown even stronger now. Thank you Joe! You are an inspiration. Not to mention the need to get out there and use my Nikon!

[@axelkeuchel5728]

Hello Joe and greetings from another european Japan lover. Actually in Japan I feel much more “at home” than in the country where I am born. And Osaka is such a great place with it’s warm and welcoming vibes, the wonderful people of this town and so much more. Every time I come to Japan I make sure to stay at least a few days in Osaka, visiting my japanese friends there and indulging myself into this great town. And of course - Osaka is a streetphotographers heaven.

[@kurtlwrr]

as a long time viewer I can guess what you've been dealing with on a personal health level, as you said 'we'll get through this' and so you shall. Great video as always and keep up the inspiring work!

[@justincosplay]

The shots in the rain is so great. Brings me right back there.

[@stanleyleoo3836]

We always support you Joe wherever you are. Keep filming, keep taking photos and keep inspiring man. Love your videos and vibes.

[@carlosvanvegas]

Loving these video's they feel really personal, but bring you into feeling like you're seeing this by being there, even watching and hearing the rain, just feels so organized, but Japan has that saying the perfect society, but it does feel like it to the outsider, but love the fact that when you say cheers, everyone joins in with you 👍

[@MartinCastein]

Hi Joe, I hope you are ok. Can see you are clearly struggling a bit. Just wishing you all the best.

[@shubhamashish]

You're videos have some great level of cinematographer vibes. Love that 💖

[@joeallam]

Really appreciate that - thanks!

[@andrewwilson775]

In Tokyo at the moment, and catching up on your videos for inspiration. So sad to realise you and Elly are not together anymore. Hope both of you get through this and can move on to better and brighter times.

[@alphillips4772]

It was great to catch up with you yesterday Joe. All the best going forward.

[@NasihSaifullah]

Sirui lens definitely gives different vibe and perspective especially comparing to your previous snaps of Japan. Loving it! Also, take care of yourself. As much as i’d want more of your new contents, personal life definitely has a bigger priority and I’d understand if there’s less contents/updates until you settle in.

[@kokonotsu_j]

Visiting Osaka in 2 months. Love to see people chilling out there!

[@Mel-95]

I think this is one of the best videos you've done talking to camera. You took us on the journey you are taking. Good locations, setups, closeups that kept me engaged with you. Also, love the anamorphic lens. Nicely done. I'm on board with your continuing journey in Japan.

[@NitinG.]

Hey Joe, thanks as always for the update and your recent good happenings in Osaka. Osaka is always fun, enjoyable and memorable. I hope you are doing fine, moving, and everything else can be a bit tough sometimes, but I know that you will be okay! We are here for you and I hope you enjoyed my hometown Berlin a bit! :) Cant wait for the new videos, but please give yourself enough time to settle things first. Cheers,

[@joeallam]

Always appreciative of the support, dude! I’ve been taking a lot of time away from everything lately, but I’ll always want to be making something with a camera. I filmed a lot in Berlin too - hopefully I can piece it together into something…

[@nolawernicke9078]

Hello Joe, Osaka looks like a fun place to be. It's good to see you, share when you're ready. 😊

[@mochachaiguy]

Joe, these videos have been wonderful to experience. Your perspective and spirit are very much appreciated.

[@paullafleur6112]

Have been watching your videos for years. Beautiful and inspirational. Hang in there and keep up the good work

[@gordgallagher1650]

Hi Joe. I really missed your videos, they've given me so much inspiration with my photography. Especially love your videos of your stays in Japan, they give me a true sense of being there and experiencing what you have been fortunate to see/do. I'm hoping all is well with you. Gord

[@joeallam]

Thanks Gord! I’m always keen to make more videos, but always have to balance up against everything else, which means it often ebbs and flows. Hoping for more from Japan soon!

[@MisionJapon]

Thanks for your videos... I live in Osaka and I have the same feeling of contemplating the beauty in every corner of the city. And also think that going in more depth about the aesthetic values of the Japanese culture is essential to understand the Japanese soul. Thanks again.

[@IqbalKurniawan]

Glad to see you back on KZbin, Joe! I see that you are having an amazing experience in Osaka, perhaps this is a hint that you are (finally) moving to Japan? 😁

[@BenjaminRowlandTV]

Really enjoyed this video. It was a spark to the soul. Well done.

[@SamFournier]

Seeing your stories and now this video on Osaka definitely makes Paul and I want to make a trip there on our next visit to Japan. The interactions you had with the people are so beautiful. I know moving is a lot emotionally and just wanted to send my love and support to you, thanks for the update and sharing the beauty of Japan❤

[@joeallam]

Thanks for the kind words, Sam 🙌 I’ve been so overwhelmed with the immediate friendliness and welcome that I’ve had from everyone in Osaka. I can’t wait to return!

[@GilbertTV]

I visited Osaka 27 years ago & it is a place I loved so much for the energy & people , I guess you found the same , love the anamorphic view ..look fwd to seeing more adventures from Joe wherever life takes you

[@steveamurray59]

Big Hugs Mate...Onwards and Upwards, a new Chapter. Stay Strong, lots of Brotherly Love Mate !

[@sue.Hoo123]

It’s great to see you back, wishing you exciting times ahead, take care 🙏

[@StubbornTrekkie]

Great video as always. I really like your style and the effort you put into your work.

[@RobinH8869]

Hi Joe. Hope you're doing OK. Fascinated to see more on the anamorphic as I've been looking at picking one of these up for a while. Take care

[@joeallam]

It’s been a very fun lens to use - looking forward to exploring more with it soon!

[@tinadroldan]

You’re gonna fine, man! Exciting days ahead!

[@andrewphillips2520]

stunning footage of Osaka Joe. Always look forward to your next content

[@laflanerie4430]

Wooo Joe's back!! 🙏

[@joeallam]

✌️😬

[@DisneyM92F]

I hope you had a great time in Osaka. Tokyo is the eye catching place, and fun to explore. However, I believe that Osaka has more something deep atmosphere and better place to live than Tokyo, so I’m happy to see you create this video!

[@rymack5715]

Hey Joe, awesome video as usual! Loving the look of the anamorphic stills! 🤯 I hope you’re well, and I look forward to whatever comes next, sir! ❤

[@Barry_Kavanagh]

I hope you get through whatever this is Joe mate, love your content, still have my Incase EO Travel Backpack because of your older videos from Japan. Reach out if you need anything! All the best from Ireland! ☘

[@nickclarke89]

Lovely video Joe and it seems that Osaka has really been there for you during this time. Looking forward to seeing more videos for your next chapter and I'm sure this will help propel you to do greater and better things :)

[@OliverMay1]

Great to see another video from you "Mr Joe" 😉😁 But otherwise, you do seem a ilttle off, not quite yourself, so I hope all is good with you dude (and if not, then I hope it will be soon) 👍

[@MatternDominik]

wonderful video! loved every second of it.

[@Musiquedecor]

the best video ive seen on osaka by far. i want a fuji now lol

[@johnhendry5660]

Excellent video Joe.

[@kingmaafa120]

Japan 🇯🇵 a photographer’s heaven

[@ridebicycles9945]

Beautiful video!

[@FaithfulFrets]

Liked the colors on this one

[@J4M350N]

Love this ending scene!

[@PeteD]

6:00 I'm not sure people necessarily care if you post winter content in spring or aumtum or summer. You can always just preface it with that context. People will seek the content they like as well regardless of whether it's relevant to the month. I personally am still uploading stuff from my winter trip last year because the schedule to edit is challenging, so from my perspective I would say, if you thought it was worth capturing (doubtless), and you have the time to create the video, then it's worth sharing :)

[@HwL01]

I think it is more like the person in the footage is something he doesn't want to be reminded on nor have on the channel for now.

[@count.casper]

Another stellar video!

[@TechWandererYT]

Love the vibes. Just watching it now and it makes me think about the X-S20 again. Any thoughts on that camera? Feels like it would be perfect to travel and create with. P.S. Whatever you're going through right now, you'll push through it and will come out stronger on the other end 🙏

[@joeallam]

Thanks man! 🙏 Haven’t tried the X-S20, but looks great on paper!

[@Porkchop1999_]

Thank you for the brilliant video~ This feels like 'A love story to Osaka' Thank you for all your hard work, Your camera skills never fail to blow me away, Keep it up m(_ _)m I hope your having a lovely day, Have a wonderful rest of your week, Be safe and Take care out there wherever you are (^=W=^)7 And you too fellow viewer~

[@kapilbhallafoto]

Stay healthy and strong buddy

[@RhysAngulatta]

Great to see you back Joe! Are you making the move from London to Japan by chance? I always hoped to bump into you when out on a photo walk in central but alas!

[@HwL01]

Hope you get out of the dark clouds, all the best. I think I know what you're going through, time will heals. Anyway a 35mm anamorphic, should still be a 35mm view but with top and bottom cut off if I'm not mistaken?

[@stevendalt]

Beautiful video.

[@cliveeariss880]

Great video Joe, I really enjoyed this, and funny you should talk about lens, I met many people in the Philipiines and some photographers, whos asked about the camera, but the lens is the real key, looks like some meetups to sort out, I have one in America a meetup and some people who want to meet me, so exciting, your edit is always so good, loved this, all the best mate.

[@joeallam]

Thanks Clive! Sounds fun with some meet-ups in America - hope it all goes well for you! ✌️

[@KillerTacos54]

Amazing video!!

[@andrearock71]

I love your videos, ALWAYS :)

[@BrandonNop]

I watched til the end.................... ❤

[@cliveeariss880]

Ok this is a little deep, Osaka is for sure a great city, and I do miss the place very much, this was top notch, hmmm now im missing Japan even more. I often have people ask me, camera or lens, lens every time, buy a good body, but buy the bestlens you can, and one that is right for your style of photography....right.

[@KuyaJDL]

hello I hope tou comeback tin Toronto.

[@Dobetter.blessed]

PLEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASEEEEEEE tell me the camera you used to video the rain fall. Please 🥺 it was so beautiful and gosh I wish I can capture that. I’ll save up for what you used. Let me know please !

[@sanjayvallabh]

Hope you are ok mate.

[@Sarthak_J]

Would like to know more about this SIRUI anamorphic lens.

[@alanjones4333]

🌻

[@chlebasmaslomasalamou]

Just one question. Do you think about composition before recording, or do you just record everything and then select good-looking shots ?

[@ChanceBarber]

What camera body are these 2 lenses on?

[@mrssandycandy]

😊

[@tc_da_f]

Hey, could you please link the adaptor?

[@williemathis5660]

'PromoSM'

[@vrakula]

I will miss Elly :(

[@enriquezf1]

?