magazine
2024.09.05

Capturing the Scent of Spring: Tips for Beautiful Sakura Photography | Focus #52

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cover image by Sentimental_Jong

Capturing the cherry blossoms that bloom with the breath of spring is an activity that shares the joy of the season. Here are some simple techniques to help you take cherry blossom photos that make viewers say 'beautiful!'

Use Weather as a Spice for Photography

Morning on a Clear Day

The contrast between the clear sky and cherry blossoms is like a spring painting. The fresh morning air enhances the colors of the blossoms.

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Don't Be Deterred by Clouds or Rain

The beauty of cherry blossoms doesn't fade under cloudy skies. Highlighting a single blossom against a gray sky can evoke the unique emotion of spring. On rainy days, capturing petals adorned with raindrops can also be beautiful.

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Weave a Story with Background Selection

Look Beyond the Blue Sky

The blue sky isn't the only background that suits cherry blossoms. While a mass of blossoms is impressive, focusing on the beauty of individual flowers is also recommended. Find a favorite branch and blur the surroundings to make the blossoms the star.

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Pan Focus for a Storytelling Effect

Pan focus photography, where everything is in sharp focus, creates a narrative within expansive landscapes that include mountains or castles. Perhaps graduates are reflecting on their school days as they gaze at the cherry blossoms from the schoolyard. Use a high F-stop to weave a story into your photo.

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Focus on Composition for Simple Beauty

Exclude the Unnecessary

Focus on the cherry blossom petals without capturing the branches. Aim for a simple composition to highlight the beauty of the blossoms. Choosing large flowers can add impact to your photos.

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Enjoy the Life Cycle of Cherry Blossoms

Not only the full bloom, but also the budding blossoms and the delicate beauty of falling petals carry a unique charm. Capturing various expressions allows you to convey the full allure of cherry blossoms.

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Expressive with Light and Shadow

Harness the Sunlight

Photos where cherry blossom petals appear translucent against the soft morning or evening sun have a special beauty. Using backlighting can add dramatic shadows to the blossoms, enhancing the photo's impact.

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How was it? Grab your camera and enjoy the start of a new season with cherry blossoms. With a few small tricks, you can capture photos that make people say 'beautiful!' and discover the deep joy of spring.