Lost in Shibuya or just a love letter to Tokyo

Shibuya Crossing isn’t about loving the chaos. It’s not about revealing the high-energy buzz of a thousand people moving like a choreographed wave. It’s about something quieter, more profound—a moment of connection in a sea of strangers. You find yourself drawn here for the spectacle and the stories unfolding every step. The variety of characters, the fleeting glances, the entertainers weaving their rhythm into the city's pulse—there’s no other place quite like it. 

It was our last evening in Tokyo, and I suggested one final stroll through Shibuya: a little shopping, some people-watching, and a bowl of steaming ramen. As I packed my gear, I took my Mamiya 645, loaded with Ilford HP5 Plus, strapped securely to my chest. It was a gamble—no digital crutch, no instant gratification. I tried to guess every setting, capturing Tokyo’s rhythm one imperfect frame at a time.

There’s a magic to shooting on film that digital can’t replicate. With my digital cameras, the temptation to check each shot is irresistible. But with film, there’s patience, anticipation, and an undeniable charm in the imperfections. A missed autofocus and a slightly off exposure are part of the process. It feels like the essence of creation itself, raw and unfiltered.

One image stands out among the many frames I shot that night: a girl smiling. Her expression was a burst of happiness amidst the orchestrated chaos of the crossing. Her joy felt unspoken but understood, an anchor in the swirling current of faces and footsteps.

Her smile reminded me of the beauty of that moment—standing at Shibuya Crossing, surrounded by people who were indeed present. They were snapping selfies, reframing their shots, soaking in the experience just as I was. For a moment, everyone seemed united in their love for this city, its energy, and its unrelenting vibrancy.

Tokyo can stay with you long after you’ve left its neon streets. I felt its pulse, heartbeat, and soul that night in Shibuya. It’s a place that welcomes imperfection, embraces chaos, and celebrates the joy of simply being there.

I know I’ll be back. Until then, I’ll carry the memory—and the hope—of Shibuya Crossing, its energy etched into my soul and a roll of film waiting to be developed.

All images are mine and under copyright.

For everyone interested in the technical side of life:

Camera: Mamiya 645 Super + Secor 80mm
Film: Ilford HP5 Plus 400 120 mm
Lab: Jack’s Lab - Redeem your code here

The Power of Saying Hello with Duncan Raban

It was a Saturday morning, one of those beautifully sunny days in London where the sky is blue and the breeze is perfect. It is ideal for exploring the vibrant atmosphere of Photo London, which brings together the world's leading galleries and international photography Fair at Somerset House.

© Slawo Urban | Photo London Cafe

After strolling through the event, taking in the stunning imagery and stories behind all the pictures. I found a spot to sit and enjoy the Life and Arts section of the Financial Times with a hot chocolate, my favourite drink since I gave up coffee. That's when I met Duncan Raban, whose energy and enthusiasm were as captivating as the photographs.                                                  

Duncan approached me with a fast-paced walk, grabbed my necklace pendant, and exclaimed, "Hey man, I love that section of the newspaper you're reading!" It was an unconventional introduction that made me laugh instantly. "Thanks," I replied, "Who are you, my friend? Sit down, let's chat." He introduced himself as Duncan, a passionate photographer on a crusade to end loneliness, and soon, we talked deeply.

Before long, Duncan's friend Andy Weekes joined us, and suddenly, we had a lively group discussing photography, printing, and the joys of shooting with film. It was an impromptu gathering filled with creativity, laughter, and the exchange of ideas. That day, I barely glanced at anything else. I was thoroughly engrossed in this spontaneous camaraderie with Duncan, Andy, and others who joined our circle while mesmerised by our energy.

© Andy Weekes

A few weeks later, I met Duncan for a walk and talk. His work fascinated me, particularly his striking photo of Tina Turner, rich with motion and emotion. Our conversation delved into his illustrious career as a football photographer in the 80s, capturing legends like Pele and Maradona and his experiences photographing the Rolling Stones and other world celebrities. However, what truly stood out to me wasn’t just his impressive portfolio but his ability to make people laugh and feel at ease.

Over multiple meetings, phone calls, and WhatsApp exchanges, I realised that Duncan's true gift lies in his ability to create a warm, fun, and enjoyable environment. While many might be drawn to his celebrity work, I’m most inspired by his genuine kindness and the joy he brings to those around him.

Duncan on his bike

© Slawo Urban | At the V&A

Duncan's latest initiative, "Just Say Hello," perfectly shows this spirit. He's often found on the streets of London, filming and photographing remarkable characters, making them smile, and capturing their unique stories. This project isn't just about images; it's about creating connections and celebrating the quirks and diversity of British life over the past 15-20 years.

As a photographer, I admire Duncan's ability to bring out the best in people through simple interactions. His work reminds me that the power of a hello can spark laughter, forge friendships, and create unforgettable moments. It’s a legacy of genuine human connection that I find truly inspiring.

Check out his work—it's a testament to the magic that can happen when you say hello.

Visit Duncan’s Just Say Hello Meta page.

Texas Sun & Rain

My recent adventure took me to Dallas, a city I had never explored. The warmth and friendliness of the people, wide streets, and endless sky want me to go back again and walk the tarmac with some badass cowboy boots.

Deep Ellum Street

Deep Ellum Sign

Watermelons sweet like nothing else

Everywhere I went, I met genuine helpfulness, interest, and smiles. During my three-day stay, one of the highlights was an early morning walk along the Katy Trail. If you know me, you might smile as I walk everywhere daily. If you watch a travel program with me, I might shout, “Oohhhh, I have walked there.” So the Katy trail surrounded by nature and old Texan steel was the perfect morning for me.

Katy Trail Dallas

Old train tracks

Nature takes art

The Katy Trail is an iconic path built on an old Union Pacific Railroad built by the Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad, which established the network in 1865. Privately funded and supported by the community, it's maintained by the Friends of the Katy Trail organisation. Their efforts ensure that residents and visitors can enjoy this beautiful, natural trail. Beautifully curated with nature and art installations, this trail is a green oasis within a hot, concrete city. Locals use it to exercise, walk, meet friends, and have a great time.

As the sun rises and my legs warm up with the day's first steps, I am using the time to reflect. The true joy of these walks is connecting with locals and engaging in conversations. I always make it a point to ask for their recommendations on favourite activities, restaurants, and places to visit. This interaction, experiencing a place through the eyes of a local, is my way of discovering new places. I have stumbled upon the most incredible spots by being open and seeking a friendly conversation.

Don't be shy. Just ask a local.

One fantastic dinner recommendation came from a local who pointed me to José on Lovers, a restaurant full of delicious Mexican dishes and flavors. The restaurant has a great feel and vibe and is by far my favourite restaurant in Dallas.

Thank you Anastacia Quiñones-Pittman

I love Tacos

With Victor Rojas

Here I am at José on Lovers, a restaurant I also saw on Netflix's Taco Chronicles. The food was beyond incredible, but what truly stood out was the kindness and friendliness of the people. The chef, Anastacia Quiñones-Pittman, even brought out freshly made tortillas for me to take home to my family, knowing how excited I was to experience their passion for creating fantastic food at home again.

Dallas bricks

I'm returning home with delicious vacuum-sealed tortillas, which I'll use to make fish tacos. I've been to Austin a few times, but Dallas feels different. I enjoyed people's "can-do, let's do it" attitude. 

I'll be back to explore more of the outskirts and spend time in the rural areas with cowboys, cattle, and horses away from the long, stretched roads. Despite being a huge fan of walking, Dallas challenged even me with its sheer size and sprawling distances, burning my Nike soles down to the ground.

I ended my trip to Dallas in the Merrit Coffee shop in Deep Ellum before returning to the Airport. 

PS - When did you last go out in full rain and walk through your neighbourhood? I was caught in a tendentious rain with raindrops as huge as eggs. Being outside and taking pictures was fun, but I was also cold and, at some point, grumpy. 

Reunion Tower in the distance

Rain drops on auto focus

Sunny puddles

A Day in Athens

My journey through the land of Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus has been charming, especially amidst the endless exploration of old and new Athens. This city is an open-air museum where you can feel the philosophical way around each corner.

Light & Shadows in Athens

My visit to Athens wasn't for leisure; it had a purpose—to capture the essence of the Humans Behind AI campaign, an opportunity to connect with brilliant minds in the field.

Beyond the campaign, I seized free moments to discover the city and its people. My first stop was the National Library of Greece, a remarkable institution housing over a million items, 300 million electronic resources, and an impressive collection of ancient Greek manuscripts. It was a place where history lived, and the stories of the past were easy to grab.

National Library

National Library

I met Chris, a Director of Life Sciences Innovation and Senior Lecturer at Imperial College. His dual passion for technology and Athens was infectious. Over conversations about Stoicism and Marcus Aurelius, Chris recommended visiting his favourite bookshop, Free Thinking Zone, in the Kolonaki district—a sanctuary of activism and intellectual exchange.

Chris

Free Thinking Zone bookstore

The owner, an advocate for human rights, welcomed me into this unique space—a blend of coffee shop, gallery, and co-working hub brimming with cultural vibrancy. Immersed in socially conscious publications and invigorated by their mission, I left with a deeper connection to the power of ideas and positive change.

Empowered by these encounters and leaving with a copy of Marcus Aurelius Meditations, I embarked on a stroll to the Acropolis and through Plaka, a neighbourhood bustling with shops and cafes. Despite winter, the weather was perfect—a pleasant 20 degrees Celsius—enhancing every step amidst ancient Greek architecture.

Free Thinking Zone owner

If you find yourself in Athens, walking as much as I did, do not miss refuelling at Falafellas. Their falafel is more than a sandwich; it's an experience for memory and taste buds.

Oh, I forgot to mention the impressive "routine" Change of the Guard, which takes place every hour 24/7 and involves two incoming and two outgoing sentries supervised by a "Corporal of the Change." It is an impressive spectacle showing humans’ control over body and mind.

Tasty Falafel

Guards change

After a day filled with literature, intriguing people, profound thoughts, and delicious food against the backdrop of the Acropolis, I returned to my hotel, reflecting on the magic of twenty-four hours in an unknown place—Athens. This city seamlessly weaves history with contemporary life.

Acropolis

Iceland

Let me take you on a journey through Iceland, starting in Reykjavik.

The city, nestled on this island of fire and ice, welcomed me with its serene and laid-back charm. I am excited as it is my second time in Reykjavik, where I have more time to explore before heading inland for my photoshoot.

Hallgrimskirkja in the background

Hallgrimskirkja in the sun

Sun in the Hallgrimskirkja

I am hungry and also on the hunt for a hot chocolate (which is delicious at the Reykjavik Roasters)

It seems everyone is drawn to Braud & Co., the renowned bakery.

I vividly recall my first visit in 2016, where queues wound around the corner for their cinnamon rolls, disappearing within minutes.

This time, I indulged in my pastry without delay – a rite of passage for any connoisseur of bread and pastries passing through.

A man by the window

Red chair

Cinamon roll & hot chocolate

After a morning exploring the iconic Hallgrimskirkja and Harpa and eating Arctic Char and Atlantic Wolffish, I had the privilege of meeting Anders Vange, a gifted glassblower who fashions art from recycled glass powered by renewable energy.

As we conversed about glass, Iceland, and his grandfather's sailor life on Aeroe Island in Denmark, memories of my visit to that island in 2019 came flooding back. It felt like a shared bond woven from our collective experiences and adventures.

Anders Vange

Reykjavik emerges in a laid-back aura, where every moment unfolds effortlessly, further enhanced by the unexpectedly sunny weather.

When immersing yourself in a new location, the initial focus often gravitates towards capturing broader views and landmark attractions.

With time and experience, I find myself drawn towards the intricate details, losing myself in the captivating beauty of each moment.

Such is the magic of creativity—presenting a photograph of a colossal lava rock formation and inviting viewers to weave their own narratives and indulge in their imagination.

Hálsanefshellir Cave

Wherever your travels take you and whatever sights you encounter, there's always a captivating detail that can encapsulate the entire story, much like the images captured below: the majestic Skógafoss Waterfall, the Black Sand Beach, and the Gullfoss.

The extent of storytelling through imagery is entirely in your hands – how much you choose to reveal and the level of detail captured to convey your unique narrative.

Seljalandsfoss

Remains of a glacier

Skógafoss rainbow

Gullfoss Falls

I am not a writer

I would love to be one day, but right now, I’m a photographer, and I have so many stories to tell, whether from my travel experiences or moments in life that have stayed with me. Some of them must have been frozen in a picture.

I have realised that to tell a story; you have to either talk to people so your stories can be carried around or start writing with the hope that someone will pick up your story one day.

I don’t want to forget all the nice things I did in life, and I am happy to share some of my experiences with you.

This is not a food or travel blog - it will be a collection of my stories and experiences put on paper or screen.

Icelandic stillness

It takes time.

It took me 30 years to break the writing barrier, as I was always told in school that I couldn’t write and was not good at writing. So here I am, working through the process of showing you that whatever you’ve been told in life doesn’t matter. You know best what you can and what you can’t, and you should stick to it.

Only you know what you are best at. If not, there is always a way to learn it.

This is my photography website, and I share only my personal and commercial work here.

Still, I have consciously decided not to write about camera settings or be too technical about my gear. Don’t get me wrong—I love my camera kit, but I don’t think it is essential to achieving great images.

In the last two years, I’ve travelled to many places where I worked or just walked for hours and explored.

So, while I look through my archives and travel notes, I start remembering all the memories I want to share with you.

Hanging shoes in Bushwick

To start is the best way.

I’ve started my stories blog with the latest article about Tokyo. It might be imperfect and unstructured, but I have tried to give you the essence of my experience, and I am happy with it. While in the office, excited about my writing achievements, I plan my trip to Iceland.

I’m looking forward to going back. I haven’t planned anything and don’t know where to go or what to do on this trip. I’m allowing myself to be in the flow and take whatever comes up.

My new studio

January is a tranquil month. I am happy and excited to be home after being abroad for nearly two months.

However, I can’t sit still for a long time and enjoy a project or two.

So, after a few weeks of doing nothing but telling everyone everything about my trips to Nepal, Japan, Singapore, Australia, USA, Canada, and Greece,

I have decided to convert the garage into a full-functioning photo studio, where I can welcome people for a photo shoot or use it for product shots. It is my space for creativity.

I have been playing with the space - figuring out when the sun is shining in and where and how to position my studio light.

Self portrait

Studio

The Art of Walking

Walking has become my daily exercise routine; it's my pathway to clarity and creativity. Each day, I walk into my local forest, not just to stretch my legs but to clear my mind of any mental clutter and to set my priorities straight.

Morning mist

Have you ever experienced that curious sensation of walking so deeply lost in thought that you almost forget you're walking? 

It's during these moments that I often find myself covering great distances, both mentally and physically. Sometimes, the solution to a nagging problem or a brilliant idea for a new project comes to me unexpectedly, like turning a page in a book.

The Path

Lonely Tree

I recently read John Kaag's Hiking with Nietzsche. This journey blends philosophy with personal discovery, inspired by Nietzsche's unconventional wisdom. Kaag's exploration of nature as a classroom for understanding Nietzsche's ideas resonated deeply with me. 

In the book, Kaag embarks on daring mountain hikes reminiscent of Nietzsche's own, embodying the philosopher's call for active engagement with life's challenges. 

From contemplating crevasses' edges to revisiting the Swiss Alps years later with his family, Kaag's narrative underscores Nietzsche's philosophy as a guide for embracing life's uncertainties and pushing beyond comfort zones.

The Book is a story of intellectual inquiry set against breathtaking landscapes. This book reminds me how much I love walking, especially in the mountains.

The Forest

Walking is about gaining insight, finding inspiration, and pushing the boundaries of creativity. It's my reminder that sometimes, the best way forward is to take one step at a time, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the sound of animals.

Tokyo

I still have to pinch myself when I think about my trip to Japan—it feels like my dreams over the last 40 years were projected in front of my eyes. I travel a fair amount yearly and enjoy different cultures, people, and food. Arriving in Tokyo felt like coming home—an instant feeling you have. You know when you know.

My stay was limited to only four days, so I had to make the most of it. I had three days to myself and one day to work. I usually don't read travel books and ignore recommendations because I am curious to explore things. Everyone has different expectations, so recommendations don't work for me.

My first day was great, as I had arrived at one of Tokyo's most unique and traditional hotels. My stay in the Okura Hotel was out of this world. The people, the room, and the service were outstanding, conscious, and tailored to my needs.

The Okura Tokyo

Walking and exploring

Whenever I can, I walk to explore any city, so I put on my running shoes and start exploring the city on foot. Starting from Toranamon and the newly developed Toranamon Hills, I went to the classical Shibuya District and Shibuya Crossing. 

I enjoyed being there, but I also realised quickly that I prefer to avoid tourist places where you must queue and wait to see something overshared on Instagram. 

Anyway, I am not interested in sharing my entire life on Instagram, so I have left quickly to explore Tokyo and indulge each second. On my way to Kitazawa, I stopped at shops to buy little gifts and memories from Tokyo. The Stüssy shop in Shibuya is fantastic if you ever land there.

Shibuya Crossing

I am not a camera tech nerd.

You are probably about realising I am not sharing anything about technical photography, camera settings, etc. For me, this is not that important. Since I picked up my first Olympus camera around 2000, I have always photographed with the feeling for light, the moment focusing on light, symmetry, or just gut feeling.

Twenty-four years later, I did the same with all my cameras, such as Canon 5d IV, FujiFilm X100V, and GFX100II. All cameras are different, but in the end, they are all my extended eye, and if I don't see things, the camera will never capture them.

I have finally arrived in Kitazawa, jetlagged and hungry after walking some serious miles. I am now searching for a Ramen Restaurant - overwhelmed by the offers and misleading Google reviews from confused tourists.

On a little side street, there is my point of happiness—Naochan ramen なおちゃんラーメン. Money out, money in the machine slot, and now it's time to wait for this beautiful bowl of nourishment. Ramen is my happy place.

Naochan Ramen Restaurant

Mushroom Ramen

Ramen, Ramen and Matcha

The night and sleep were great after my Ramen and welcome day two, which I started with a traditional Japanese omelette turned with chopsticks. I had a vision today—visiting Kamimeguro, which is known for its stunning cherry blossoms along the Meguro River and the relaxed residential atmosphere of Meguro City, following a visit to Nampeidaicho and Sarugakucho to hang around in some bookstores and galleries. Lurf Museum was pretty cool, and the in-house cafe was as well.

Tokyo at Night

And Sushi

I enjoyed my working day yesterday but didn't have much time to walk around the city, so I am excited again to conquer the mega city on my last full day. I have big plans and also new shoes with more cushioning. My first stop is early to the Tsukiji Fish Market to grab some fresh Nigiri and Sashimi for breakfast.

Fish Merchant Tsukjii Fish Market

Sushi

Wish something

I recommend Fat Tuna Belly Nigiri for Breakfast—the sweet, buttery taste triggered my pallet. After breakfast, I visited Senso-ji nearby to draw random wishes for OMIKUJI and buy some beads for my family.

I love visiting Buddhist temples, leaving a prayer and thinking about my loved ones. I recommend visiting Senso-Ji early in the morning.

Senso-Ji

Geisha

More Sushi

Working the day before and walking a lot requires a reasonable calorie intake of Ramen, Matcha, and more Ramen and Sushi. I can’t get enough of the flavours and Umami. For my last day, I treated myself to Omakase, a Japanese dining experience that involves enjoying the chef's culinary skills to create a personalised sushi experience. I can’t describe the flavours and sensations I have experienced during my 2-hour Omakase.

Omakase

Ebimaru Ramen

Fish Market

Walk in the park

I finished my day with a sunset walk in Yoyogi Park, Yoyogikamizonocho, and Nishiazabu, eating Japanese snacks and drinking more Matcha.

Yoyogi Park

Kamimeguro

I continued pinching myself, and I couldn’t believe I had the opportunity to be here in Tokyo. I love the precision, kindness, accuracy, and pride of people doing their craft. I haven’t experienced it here in Europe. Some people say the overengineered precision kills creativity.

I disagree; the attention to detail and precision creates an appreciation for things and people around you.

Thank you, Tokyo.

All images are mine taken on an iPhone, Canon or FujiFilm camera.