cover image by m＊style
Everything has an end. It is because of this end that we can find the present moment precious and beautiful. We may be drawn to forgotten ruins or decaying logs because they evoke a sense of nostalgia by reminding us of endings.
The Closing of a Day
The moment a shop closes, the bustling noise of the day quiets down, creating a unique atmosphere. People disappear, and it feels as if time has stopped. Capture the moment the shutters come down or the instant the lights go out inside. Using the 'CLOSE' sign as a subject can also be effective.
For photography tips, use a wide-angle lens to capture the entire store, emphasizing the stillness of the closing moment. Shooting from a distance can highlight the contrast between the street and the store.
Image by Ultra TakaBo-
Image by Shimakou
The Beauty of Falling
In the seasons of cherry blossoms and autumn leaves, there is a fleeting beauty in the moment petals fall. In Japan, the sight of cherry blossoms scattering has been associated with impermanence and death, giving rise to the concept of 'the aesthetics of scattering'.
Using a macro lens to close-up the details of petals can highlight the beauty of nature. When photographing moving subjects like petals in the wind, set a fast shutter speed.
Image by littlekiss photography
Image by yuya4four
The Ephemeral Disappearance of 'Places'
The last day of a store brings a sense of melancholy to employees and regular customers. When a lively place becomes quiet, countless memories etched into that place come to the surface. Capturing such moments in photos can convey both fragility and beauty.
Photographing signs with the store's name or closed shutters can symbolically express the end of the store. Using a wide-angle lens to capture the entire store's atmosphere is effective. Empty shelves or scenes of tidying up can also be subjects. Use a standard lens or a 50mm lens for simple yet detailed depictions.
Image by ユウ3850
Image by Amo
Traces of the Past on the Roadside
Walking down a country road, you may encounter things that make you feel the passage of time, as if they've been there forever. Old buildings and unused tools carry the traces of the past.
Focusing on parts that show the passage of time, like rusty doors or cracked walls, can be effective. Try capturing details up close or shooting from various angles to create photos that convey the history of the place.
Image by nuruyu
Image by ユウ3850
Forgotten Memories of Someone
Ruins and abandoned houses retain the memories of their former inhabitants. When photographing such places, focusing on details like furniture and personal belongings can evoke more emotion.
In dark places, use a tripod and a low ISO setting to capture clear, noise-free photos. Utilizing natural light to highlight subjects in the light can also be effective.
Image by m＊style
Image by ばつまる
Nature Decaying and Renewing
The decaying appearance of nature also signifies the possibility of new life and cycles. Capture the scene of mushrooms growing on fallen trees or moss-covered stones, where new life breathes within decaying nature.
Focus on the small life forms and express them beautifully in detail. Using the soft light of early morning or evening can enhance the beauty of nature.
Image by tamu1500
Image by samuge
How was it?
By using this article as a reference, you might be able to express 'the passage of time' imbued with sadness and poignancy in your photos. Pick up your camera and capture the beauty of things coming to an end and fleeting moments.
