magazine
2024.12.03

Capture December! Top 5 Photography Subjects to Feel Winter's Glow and Warmth | Release #386

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Cover photo by ishii

December is the season to enjoy the crisp winter air and city illuminations. From enchanting nightscapes to snow-covered landscapes and winter events, there are plenty of subjects that delight the camera.

This time, we introduce you to the best photography subjects for December and detailed shooting tips.

Illuminations

When it comes to December, city illuminations are a must-see. The sparkling light tunnels and the glow of Christmas trees offer a perfect opportunity to capture a romantic atmosphere in your photos.

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Photo by wagahaiha chitta

For shooting tips, use a prime lens with a bright aperture to capture bokeh effects. A cross filter can enhance light streaks for a more magical finish. Setting exposure compensation to positive can highlight the brilliance of the lights.

There are many famous illumination spots like Tokyo Midtown and Ashikaga Flower Park.

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Photo by mintchoco

Snowy Landscapes

Winter's snowy landscapes offer a beauty that lets you forget the everyday. Enjoy capturing moments like freshly fallen snow and frozen lakes that can only be seen in the cold season.

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Photo by 琴音

For shooting tips, using a wide-angle lens to capture the entire scene can create dynamic compositions. Adjust exposure slightly under to prevent overexposure and emphasize the contrast with the blue sky for impressive photos. Recommended spots include Mount Fuji and Shirakawa-go.

Geminids Meteor Shower

The Geminids meteor shower, visible in mid-December, is a natural show that colors the winter night sky. Point your camera at the night sky to capture shooting stars.

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Photo by tatsumi

For shooting tips, use a tripod and long exposure with a wide-angle lens. Set the shutter speed to 15-30 seconds to capture the movement of the entire starry sky. Choose a location with little moonlight for clearer starry skies. Recommended spots include Biei, Hokkaido, and Achi Village, Nagano.

Christmas Dishes and Sweets

December's table is adorned with lavish dishes and desserts. Roast chicken and Christmas cakes are subjects full of seasonal charm.

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Photo by Chico.

For shooting tips, capturing the whole with a wide-angle lens or focusing on details with a prime lens can make for impressive photos. Placing red and green items in the background can create a more Christmas-like atmosphere.

Atmosphere of Hot Spring Towns

Hot spring towns, which are inviting in the cold season, offer atmospheric scenes with rising steam.

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Photo by ishii

For shooting tips, using a standard zoom lens to capture the overall atmosphere of the buildings is recommended. Shooting in the morning when the steam is highlighted by the temperature difference can result in magical photos. Taking portraits in yukata is also a fun idea.


Even in the cold season, if you take your camera outside, beautiful winter scenes await. This December, be sure to explore the beauty of the season through your camera!