Tokyo Changes, Shoot It Before You Lose It.
Tokyo Changes
Cities are living things in a constant state of change. Tokyo is one of the biggest and most vibrant cities in the world. Its changes come fast and without warning. That new favourite shooting spot you found can vanish into thin air before returning for a second shoot.
I am often reminded of this the hard way. It is unfortunate but also remarkable that new opportunities are continually emerging. A new building reflects light differently, casts a longer shadow, or attracts new people to photograph. In this case, a grungy old smoking area with loads of character was rebuilt, repainted, and transformed into something entirely different from the perspective of street photographers—at least this street photographer.
Pictured below is the old smoking area near Shibuya Crossing. Lots of character, making it an ideal place to shoot. The structure itself was old and worn, juxtaposed with Shibuya's bright lights and big city feel. It almost becomes the subject of the photo, adding so much to the story of the frame.
Tons of character at Shibuya Crossing
The old smoking area also worked well as a background. People often stand in front of it, looking at their phones while pedestrians rush to make the light at Shibuya Crossing. I loved the grungy feeling of the background, with the often well-dressed people shopping in Shibuya and pausing in front of it. Pictured below is just one of those moments.
Man looks at Phone while pedestrians rush past at Shibuya Crossing.
The images above were taken within a few days of each other. The smoking area has been completely rebuilt, and that grungy feel is gone. I wish I had captured a few images of this spot. I would have liked to explore it more, but the city has changed without notice or apology. The character I love has vanished, but the people remain and treat the smoking area as before. It is still possible to capture a good image here, but it differs from before.
Perhaps the city is asking me to grow and move forward. I need to revisit to capture a better shot that expresses my growth.
Shibuya Crossing Smoking Area
