I always carry a camera around my neck. It’s like enjoying wearing your favorite hat, glasses, or watch. In fact, this practice also serves as a point to attract photo opportunities in my daily life. A camera that you can carry around without stress at all times and that you want to wear as you enjoy fashion will increase your reaction time to the moments your subject creates. Then I came across the GFX100RF. The beautiful, machined body design makes you want to carry it around your neck all the time. Moreover, while its compact body makes it hard to believe that it has a large-sized sensor, it can capture high-resolution, images without compromise. Its presence satisfies the desire for ownership.
This time, I decided to go on a trip with the GFX100RF in hand. I might be known for urban street photography of Tokyo, but, of course, I also travel all over Japan. However, there are still many places I have not visited, and I chose Yamaguchi Prefecture as my destination this time. I set off to explore the intriguing Yamaguchi, where nature and historical culture are compactly integrated in fascinating ways.
First, I went to Akiyoshidai, one of the largest karst plateaus in Japan, and the magnificent landscape made of limestone is overwhelming to behold.
It would not be an exaggeration to say that the whole of Yamaguchi is a geopark. Walking through this vast area, which may represent the prefecture, makes me realize how small I am. A heavy, overcast sky, rugged rocks, and winter-bare trees are well suited to the expression using the ACROS monochrome film simulation.
After staying there for a while, the sun began to shine in earnest. I used Color Chrome Blue to express the contrast between the blue sky seen through the clouds and the desolate landscape.
Next, I visited Motonosumi Shrine, known for its striking red torii gate leading to the sea. The shrine was crowded with people enjoying Hatsumode (New Year’s visit to a shrine or temple) and its spectacular views. The panoramic view of the precipitous cliff stretching out before one’s eyes fascinated people. The weather had also completely cleared up.
Finally, I headed to Hagi. By then, the sun had set and I was met with a photogenic evening view. I dared to change the aspect ratio to 16:9 for shooting. I usually don’t change the aspect ratio, but a dedicated dial for changing the aspect ratio makes me want to change it proactively.
The next day, I visited a Hagi Yaki pottery workshop, which was the main purpose of this trip. I wanted to photograph the techniques of Tamamura Toyo at Shorinantoyo Kiln. The workshop was filled with a dignified atmosphere, and I dared to choose ETERNA Bleach Bypass to express the tension in the silence.
Afterward, I explored Hagi and its surrounding towns. The townscape and the ruins of residences that still preserve the atmosphere of a former castle town evoke a mysterious feeling that transcends time.
Finally, I visited the Susa Hornfels. While I was overwhelmed by the impressive strata created by magma, I had an unexpected encounter. The sight of a walker with her dog created a mysterious scene.
Despite having a large format sensor, the compactness of the fixed-lens camera contributes to excellent maneuverability. The intuitive dials allow me to actively change settings and enjoy “operating” the camera. In addition, it is a camera that gives you the pleasure of owning it as an “object” with high-quality texture and a classical design. For street, travel, or lifestyle photography, the GFX100RF will enrich your experiences with it.
I want to continue to capture and express the essence and appeal of snapshot photography, which transforms ordinary, everyday moments into spectacular scenes.
