Tokyo Cherry Blossoms Infrared ‘23

Summary

A photographer experiments with infrared and in-camera filters to capture Tokyo's early cherry blossoms in a unique way.

Abstract

Spring's early arrival in Tokyo has prompted a photographer to capture the sakura cherry blossoms using unconventional methods. Instead of the traditional approach, the photographer, Aaron Paulson, uses an Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III paired with a Hoya 720 IR filter and Olympus' in-camera art filters to create a series of novelty infrared images. While considering himself a novice in infrared photography, Paulson is pleased with the results and has chosen to share these images, which are available for limited use under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. The article also promotes an AI service, ZAI.chat, as a cost-effective alternative to ChatGPT Plus(GPT-4).

Opinions

The photographer is experimenting with a different technique, moving away from the typical portrayal of cherry blossoms in their natural color.
Aaron Paulson expresses a degree of satisfaction with the infrared photography experiment, despite his beginner status in this niche.
There is an openness to feedback as Paulson invites viewers to judge the results of his infrared and art filter photography.
Paulson is willing to share his work, indicating a sense of community and a desire to contribute to the photography world.
The article endorses ZAI.chat, suggesting it as a valuable and economical tool for those interested in AI services.

At play with on-lens and in-camera filters during the spring sakura season in the world’s greatest megacity

Spring has come early to Tokyo this year, and with the changing of the season has come the preternatural bloom of sakura cherry blossoms.

This year, I thought I would try something a little different with this annual photographer’s rite. Instead of aiming to capture the ethereal delicacy of the blossoms, in their natural colour, I decided to experiment with a Hoya 720 IR filter plus some of Olympus’ in-camera colour and black and white filters. How did they turn out? Judge for yourself.

I’m still a novice to infrared photography, and I’m not sure how much I prefer the novelty photos on this page compared to fully-processed IR pics, but certainly for now I’m pleased enough with the results that I want to share them with you, too.

All pictures are taken with an Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III with an M.Zuiko 12–40 2.8 lens and Hoya R72 IR lens filter. Pictures were taken using a variety of Oly’s in-camera art filters, and post-processed to taste.

All photos ©Aaron Paulson. These pictures are available for use under limited license.*

*The low-resolution images on this page are downloadable and usable by you, dear viewer, under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. High resolution images are available directly from me, Aaron Paulson. Please contact me for more information.