I'm Bad at Street Photography | Kyoto, Japan

[@kevinrichardson6486]

That made me laugh. I've lived in Japan for over 10 years and so when I was watching your video I was thinking, "those shots are pretty good, but I know his expectations are probably much higher having visited Kyoto before and got some bangers etc". Then when I watched your closing comments, I thought that was great to acknowledge how much our expectations play in the greater scheme of things and how we're always pushing ourselves for that shot that's going to do it for us. I guess the good thing is, when we look at our photography journey, we see improvement because of this constant desire to nail a better shot. PS: Jealous you got that shot of the pagoda in the snow - I've never been in Kyoto when it's snowed. I'm hoping it snows on "Coming of Age" day in 2025 as the only time it snowed when all the young people are out and about in furisode (the special kimono for this day) I was working.

[@phynx2006]

I'm no street photographer, but to me you got some great images, the temple at night after the rain 👍👍❤

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thanks buddy!

[@nejibob]

We need to see more of this, I love street photography myself. Nothing better than capturing a story in the moment 😊

[@BrendanvanSon]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. I actually really like doing street photography. It helps when in places like Japan, though, for sure.

[@amandadavis1111]

Fun! Glad you are enjoying Japan! I’m moving back there in a month! 🫶🇯🇵

[@thepiratecats801]

Loved Kyoto, and that snow storm was perfect. Just wish I'd known it was coming in so I didn't have to rush around and mess up a shot.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Haha, same buddy. Wish I could have planned something.

[@JasonLorette]

Japan = Bucket List location for me, it looks so amazing. So many great images, the temples are incredilbe.

[@BrendanvanSon]

It really is! So much fun to photograph.

[@danielhenzphotography]

Love the wide angle photo with the kid and the father 🎉 I would really struggle with the wide angle lens. Also, if would not have pointed out the missing microphone I would not have guessed it beside the wind noise🙉

[@kurotaka007]

I think you’re overthinking it! Shots were fine. If anything… the “big shot” with the boat, cherry blossoms and the Castle was well worth all shots. I would however scrap that 50mm. Focus points seem to be somewhat narrow. Living here in Japan, my issue really has been lens choices. No one really talks about lens choice. That in itself is a gift! Good video!

[@stevepritchard3970]

Terrific images, Brendan. My favourite is the taxi driver.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thanks, Steve!

[@mstraitefamily]

Thank you for the wet-blanket treatment. No sarcasm. I am heading to Japan next Sakura, in 2025, and I did have serious stars in my eyes, expecting to get all the classics. I will still try. And I hope I do nail them, but your video is a good reminder that I can still smile and enjoy the experience, even if I don't get the portfolio images. Exhale, breathe, experiment, and yes, fail (sometimes). Its ok, every photographer fails sometimes. Thanks Brendan.

[@MikeLangfordGoogle]

Nice one Brendan!

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thank you Mike!

[@JohnZyski]

Nice photos. Inspiring.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Glad you like them!

[@raewebb6365]

I am totally distracted by your fabulous hat. Do you have a link where you purchased it? Ok back to watching…..great street photography. Favorite Foto = snow/cherry blossoms/pagota roof

[@BrendanvanSon]

I honestly bought it at the mall in Portugal. Couldn't not tell you the store, haha. I have no idea.

[@awilsonatl]

Another banger.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thank you!

[@mendo35]

That photo at 7:47 is beautiful.

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thanks, glad you like it!

[@Alanbravofotografo]

Amazing video my friend,perfect shots

[@BrendanvanSon]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@spiffokeen]

I really like your attitude and how much fun you’re having with it, but I was definitely excited about several of the shots you shared. Especially a lot of the vertical shots for some reason. Looking forward to the next one! Also, is it the camera angle or is the brim of that cap massive? ;)

[@BrendanvanSon]

Vertical imagery is kind of what I do. I don't know why, but I feel more ease in taking images vertically. It's like it balances better for me.

[@nigelwest3430]

If you're not getting on with the RF50 f1.8 it's well worth looking at the Sigma 50mm f1.4 Art (EF Mount) REALLY nice lens

[@BrendanvanSon]

I have it already, actually. But I haven't tried it on the RF mount. I really should.

[@nigelwest3430]

@@BrendanvanSon It gives nice results

[@scotty4418]

Hats off to you Brendan for manoeuvring your camera behind the fence. Great selection of images as well in today's video. Can I ask what your thoughts are on the Canon 14-35mm you have been using. I currently use a 16-35 f2.8 Mark III EF with adaptor on my EOS R but been thinking about the switch to the 14-35mm

[@BrendanvanSon]

I'm really liking the 14-35mm. The only minor issue I have with it is that there are times I wish I could go f/2.8. But, it's pretty great value.

[@scotty4418]

Thank you, appreciate your response. I shoot architecture so no big shakes if I dont have the wider aperture

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

I think my favorite image is of the guy sweeping the gravel. I know you struggle with street shooting but you have a lot of good architectural images. Maybe just stay away from people. 😂 Cheers!

[@chrismassa5891]

Bring 85 f1.4

[@BrendanvanSon]

Totally. Someday I'll splurge for an 85