The Reality of Iconic Photo Locations in Japan

[@garyclode1257]

Great video and photos. I liked the alternative locations approach and for me the results were as interesting or better than the more popular iconic images.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Awesome, thank you!

[@TheNewTravel]

Some truly epic photos in this one! I really dig the mt fuji shots and the guy on a bike in front of the train

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thanks a lot!

[@LynneLuxonJonesphotography]

The Train images are just stunning Brendan 👌 But whoah, wayyyyy too many people around for me ,I wish I could cope with that as you showed some great street images 👍

[@raewebb6365]

I agree 💯. I have gotten away from going where the crowds go. I seek out scenes where I can enjoy solitude

[@Michaelpalomataoneaperture]

Super video and great approach to finding new angle in such popular overcrowded locations. Even though I haven’t visited Japan yet, definitely it’s on top of list to photograph. Such an amazing insight when I visit these locations myself. Personally photographing popular locations for the first time doesn’t take away the unique experiences that gives you when you first witness the scene in the front. Looking forward to see more similar content!!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Glad you enjoyed the perspective!

[@TheNonsenseAdventures]

Everywhere has them, the "honeypot" locations. The locations that can easily make a good photograph. Except they stop being unique, like trying to find a unique photo of Glencoe. Always good to try and find something new and different.

[@michaelglass8546]

My dude love the Japan content and the sunstar was epic! Even with the taxi. I wanted to thank you for your honesty on the 50 1.8 I'll be avoiding that lens. There is a 35mm 1.4 on the way from canon for around 1400 USD I believe that's going to be my next lens.

[@ulmyoc]

You bagged some nice keepers Brendan, excellent!!

[@derrydogsdirtbikeriders4266]

I absolutely loved Japan and taking many many photos some iconic some not. We visited in Summer but I think there would he many gems to be seen and photographed in winter also

[@BrendanvanSon]

I think winter will be gold in Japan, you're right.

[@RaymondwLin]

Those spots are like Pokemon and collect them all…speaking as someone who has been to all those spots and collected them all before the pandemic and thus beat the crowd. But you are also correct that Japan is so photogenic that you can point the camera anywhere and can get a good photo too.

[@johnrmeyer1674]

Beautiful, sharp photos! Are you still using the Canon R6? BTW, I'm traveling to NYC next week, and renting a Canon 100-500mm lens for my R6. Currently researching areas where I won't run into crowds. Gonna have to get up very early. It's going to be a challenge, but still looking forward to it.

[@AnipSaturday]

Great photo and video. Are you using 16mm for this camera vlog?

[@matthewnielsen2912]

I visited Japan during cherry blossom season a few years ago and just recently visited in May. I personally don’t think the blossoms add enough to be worth the crowds. If you go outside of peak season you can get clear shots at those spots by going early or late. It also doesn’t help that China is open again and exporting tourists to Japan like crazy.

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

Quick gear question, Brendan. Are you still using the EOS R or RP? I ask because the wobbly stabilization, or lack thereof, is pretty distracting. Have you thought about the R6 Mark II? Its stabilization, slow motion, autofocus, etc. are allegedly much better. I really enjoy your content. I will likely never make it to Japan, but I will definitely use your tips in other travel locations.

[@waitdui6924]

Great video and I like your photo. May I know what tripod you use in this trip?

[@BrendanvanSon]

I did a bit of a "build your own tripod" out of my various 3 legged thing tripods haha.

[@mremumerm]

nice Street image. curious do photo group leaders feel they have to all go to same places because if not customers won't take them seriously? like i would be happy with a tour in Shikoku, but that may be just me.

[@BrendanvanSon]

No, it's because these places are more popular and sell easier. It's something I'm working on changing.

[@Alanbravofotografo]

Amazing !

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@chasescooper]

I learned early on I hated the whole “getting that shot” and standing in lines to photograph popular places. Much more enjoy just taking my own shots and trying to be creative - doesn’t always equal a photo I like but when it does it’s hard to beat that feeling. Taking a photo in some places like this just felt so hollow, but understand why people do this.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Yeah, I agree with that man.

[@phynx2006]

Maybe it's just me but your street photography has improved so much. Matter of fact some of the images you captured I think are excellent. It helps that you travel to some beautiful and unique locations. 👍😍

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thanks buddy, Glad you like them!

[@randymelton6096]

I was stationed in Yokuska, Japan way back when it was me and Noah hanging out on the pier together waiting for the water to come (1984 to be exact) and I remember everywhere I went even back then was just packed with people. I can only imagine how much more crowded it is now. I find if you go places (pretty much anywhere you go) in the off season it tends to be less crowded. I tend to like to travel from April - June and then kind of taper off until about September and pick it up again. Sure you won't get the cherry blossoms if you go off season but you also don't have the mega crowds. Also, I find being retired, going places on week days rather than waiting for the weekends, places are far less crowded as well. I'll be heading back to Japan for a week or So in September this year before ultimately heading to the Philippines for the winter. As always, great video topic.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Yeah, all good points. Enjoy the Philippines! They're awesome.

[@garykuiken6191]

The B&W at the beginning is great.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thanks Gary!

[@DennisJH]

I think you should explore Angola.

[@BrendanvanSon]

I've heard it's beautiful. On my scooter trip years ago I had to skip it for visa reasons. I've always regretted it.

[@michaelbottari6398]

Yes, even the famous ones can be photographed almost alone if you look a little. But I'm really looking forward to your own not so well-known photo locations, Brendan.

[@BrendanvanSon]

True, man!

[@danwoodliefphotography871]

Japan, above almost all other places, is one where it pays to be early. I doubt I could have persuaded my family to be as early as you were, unfortunately.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Even when you're early, you're not early enough.

[@kurotaka007]

At times I wish everyone would stop pumping up Japan travel. The massive tourist presence, along with all the girls walking while reading their f’n phones make it difficult to get around. You’re absolutely correct… if you can’t find a shot in Japan, you’re probably blind. Your early risings are truly inspiring! As I live here… have you ever thought about a photography workshop here in winter? Seriously! Hokkaido winter festival or hot tub monkeys? Onsens truly amazing spots. Think about it. I’ve never dine a photo workshop would love to experience to learn. You’re an amazing photographer. Your passion makes who you are!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Hi! Yes, I'll be back next fall and then winter as well. I spent time in Hokkaido as a kid, so I'm hoping to share some of that with the world too.

[@tjsinva]

Way too many people. Just sayin. Carry on. 👍🥂

[@BrendanvanSon]

Hahaha. It's a lot of people!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Hahaha. It's a lot of people!