Wakkanai Hokkaido. Winter Photography in Japan's Extreme North.

[@darrenleigh201]

Wonderful images! I can understand why you have returned to that area. Thanks for sharing!

[@nickpitsasphoto]

Thanks, Darren. Glad you enjoyed the video!

[@BactuallyInsane]

Your voice and perspective on things are very soothing. I thank you for these videos and photos.

[@lynettemackaway8826]

Thanks Nick for your inspirational videos of Wakkanai. We've recently had the pleasure of visiting and photographing Wakkanai and Abashiri in winter. Such a wonderful experience!

[@bettywing52]

Had no idea that's where Kombu comes from. A gourmet item. Loved the video, superior photography, especially the fox adventure.

[@tedhamilton6392]

Beautiful stills Nick, some of your best minimalist work.

[@nickpitsasphoto]

Thank you, Ted. Really appreciate your feedback.

[@preven2296]

Did you use ND filters for the long exposures? They are all beautiful photos!

[@robinlee7531]

Stunning photos and location, I will be returning for my 3rd Hokkaido trip in February 2024. I'm there mainly for bird photography but I am extending my trip this time to explore from Sapporo to Wakkanai. Who knows we may bump into each other lol.

[@nickpitsasphoto]

Thanks, Robin. So have you seen my other videos on Hokkaido bird photography? February is the only month where you can photograph eagles on sea ice in Rausu, Hokkaido. Amazing. Highly recommended. I hope you have a great time. Cheers.

[@robinlee7531]

@@nickpitsasphoto Yes I know about Rausu we did 3x 530am morning cruises, but this year they extended into March due to drift ice. You should visit Notsuke Peninsular.

[@malcolmpaterson8737]

Interesting old snow-buried buildings Nick and their slow demise is a bit poignant I thought. Was intrigued by ‘kombu’ and ‘love hotels’ - but I know I can google that. Liked your thoughts about lucky dip photography. Although I wonder if that’s actually the nature of location photography most of the time. Even ina National park, there are so many factors which can make or challenge the making of intriguing images. (Often too many people at well known locations for example). I’d be keen to hear if you have a particular thought process when you arrive somewhere and eg the light is not what you’d typically like? Because i assume you are not camping at a location waiting for a break in they clouds for hours on end like some landscape devotees. In other episodes you have talked about adapting to the situation and being open to finding something different to what you might have hoped or expected for that location/expedition. 👌🏻 I have been encouraged by some of the photographers I have heard talk about no expectations, only the openness to be sensitive to what evokes an emotion in them when they are out.

[@nickpitsasphoto]

Hi Malcolm. Thank you for your considered and thoughtful feedback. I mentioned national parks because there are specific viewpoints that most people go to, and apart from variations in light and weather, you know the kind of shot you are going to get. My favourite kind of photography is exploring an area that I don't know well, then finding something unusual or unexpected. I totally agree with going out with minimal expectations and just responding to what you see.