Photography

in Nagano Prefecture is one of Japan's 12 remaining 'original castles'. Also known as Crow Castle (烏城) because of its black exterior, the 'keep' was completed in the late sixteenth century and you can still see the original wooden interiors and stonework....  

There was a signpost that said in effect: "take your photo here"... I can imagine thousands of tourists taking the same composition ;-) Casey

I don't know why but I've always remembered this phrase from my Japanese lessons. I've only had one opportunity to use it, but the Japanese person I asked was very impressed : )

写真を撮ってもらえますか？ (Shashin o totte moraemasu ka?)... I always just said 写真いいですか (shashin īdesu ka) Casey

It would be fun to revisit after dark as I am sure the structure is lighted... imagine the reflections ;-) Casey

Everything works in the photo - the mood, the reflection & the composition. Hard not to imagine Samurais in the day. ...  

it was a fun trip and lots to see in Nagano Prefecture. Casey

I didn't know this during my visit 4 years ago, maybe next trip

Looking forward to meeting up again soon. Casey

That really is a gorgeous picture Casey.

most likely it was film, but I would have to check the archives. Casey

fact was we were a bit rushed as we were trying to avoid the rain that just started to fall ;-) But yes, a beautiful setting well presented by the city. Casey

Your shot is very atmospheric.

thanks for the kind words. Casey

It’s been a difficult time for all of us, but despite the obvious problems life can still be pleasurable, just different. I hope you have a great weekend.

I don't remember seeing that bright scarlet bridge when I went to Masumoto Castle, but it has been a while since I last visited. よく撮れましたね。 Ron (Tokyo)

My photo was taken in 2015 and judging by the wear, it had been there for some time ;-) Casey ...  

with almost monochromatic feel and the red bridge drawing the eyes in. Yet one more travel destination to add to the list

[nt]

The color contrast is striking. Missed visiting the castle on 2 occasions when passing through matsumoto….will have to make up for it.

hahaha... you have been paying attention. Casey

I’m curious what post processing software you use if any

The details are as follows: Canon 5D Mark II | EF 35mm f/1.4 L | 1/1000 sec | f 5.6 | ISO 400 Exposure Bias -1 for effect and since it was overcast I didn't use a filter. With digital it's very common for me to use -1 exposure compensation. For both film ... 

I also like -1

Raw File Converter EX 3.0 Powered by Silkypix is a 'free' downloadable application with limited (but powerful) features. Silkypix makes a full blown professional version which I have seen and would be interested in as a next step ;-) Casey