Lens and Light: Capturing the World Around Me

Photography has been a cherished hobby of mine, and I find immense joy in capturing moments and memories through the lens. While I’ve never formally trained in photography—though it’s been on my bucket list for a long time—my friends and family often tell me that I have a knack for taking lovely pictures.

I’m an avid traveler, and wherever I go, I try to capture at least one memorable shot. Nature’s beauty is my favorite subject, and most of my collection features wildlife, river valleys, gorges, rocky mountains, and beaches. Urban areas rarely make it into my gallery, but when they do, I try to focus on unique perspectives.

I also enjoy photographing people, whether it’s selfies, group shots, or candid moments. My friends jokingly call me the “Pied Piper” because of the way people naturally gather when I’m about to take a picture. The real reward for me is the happiness others feel when they see their pictures—it’s truly fulfilling.

Some of my favorite images are candid shots. I admire the advice from great photographers about capturing moments just before they unfold, and though I haven’t mastered this yet, I always attempt to seize spontaneous expressions and events.

Interestingly, I’ve noticed a consistent color pattern in my photos—a bluish tone dominates most of them, with some in warm yellow hues. While I use a Canon SLR for long trips, my iPhone has become my go-to camera for its convenience and versatility. I find tripods cumbersome, so I prefer the ease of snapping quick, natural photos with my phone.

One of my most remarkable photography experiences was capturing a volcanic eruption in Japan. Witnessing three eruptions from Sakurajima Volcano in Kyushu within 30 minutes was awe-inspiring, and I was fortunate enough to photograph one of them. It’s a memory that left me so exhilarated I couldn’t sleep for days!

Here, I’m delighted to share a collection of a few of my favorite clicks. These photos reflect my passion for photography and my love for preserving the beauty of the world and its moments. I hope you enjoy them as much as my family and friends do!