Close your eyes and immerse yourself in the symphony of nature. The wind gracefully weaves through bamboo trees, accompanied by the soft melody of chirping birds. Listen to the rhythmic flow of water as it cascades down waterfalls, adding a soothing cadence to the serene pond. The resonance of an old bell interweaves with the subtle creaking of wooden planks, created a sensory tapestry that guided me when I captured moments through photography during my visit to Kyoto. For me, photography is not just a visual art; it's a dance with the senses, a harmonious blend of sight and sound.
In the realm of photography, we sometimes overlook the tool of sound. However, strategically composing a photo with the intention of engaging other senses allows our minds to bridge the gap, transforming the narrative. Integrating sound enriches the storytelling experience, encouraging viewers to step into each photo—a technique reminiscent of movie directors' immersive methods.
Kyoto is my go-to spot for soaking in the beauty of nature's sights and sounds. With its abundance of temples, shrines, and gardens, Mother Nature invites me for a cup of tea at every turn. While I usually plug in my earbuds to tune out distractions when exploring, there's something about Kyoto that makes me want to ditch them and savor the natural melodies surrounding me.
One thing that's been on my mind is the importance of respecting other cultures when you travel. The sheer number of tourists I witnessed in Kyoto doing some questionable stuff was mind-boggling. It was a bit of a turn-off for me. When I initially arrived in Japan, I aimed to be as respectful as possible, always a bit paranoid about unintentional missteps. While I've eased up over the years, witnessing these selfish acts questions me if I want to return home to the States for an extended period of time.
