Tokyo International Forum is great for shadow play. It was something I had never paid much attention to years ago. I only used to shoot there for the architecture. That is something I regret. Well, I’ve seen the light. Pardon the pun.
The Forum was built with shadows in mind. It has everything you need for them. There are beams and bars. Glass covers the walls and there are blinds in regular places. There are catwalks in the upper area.
In the afternoon, when the sunlight streams in, the place comes alive with shadows. They cover the walls and floors. They move around as the day gets older. Photographers love it.
But shadow photos are only half the story. The lobby gallery is brilliant. It is huge. As soon as you walk into the building, you’ll see the space. You can use it!
At times, many people walk over the floor. Not everyone walks in a group. Wait, and you’ll be able to capture one solo person crossing the lobby. Indulge yourself in minimal photography. You’ll be able to catch one person walking in or out or between the shadows. It is a place for minimalism. Black and white pictures will probably have the advantage.
Photography is all timing. Maybe we need to be like Henri Cartier-Bresson and his decisive moment. It is a waiting game, be patient. Don’t hit that shutter button too early or too late. I’m not comparing myself to him, but he provides inspiration.
You could even sit on one of the lobby gallery sofas, or stand on one of the upper floors and photograph people. And you can catch them walking in or interacting with the shadows. Tokyo International Forum is great for shadow play.
And the type of people you’ll see is so varied. There are cleaners, hall staff and visitors. The building is in Yurakucho so many business people visit it. And you’ll occasionally be able to snap photographers and their models. They’ll probably be taking their own photos on the catwalks above.
As Tokyo International Forum has plenty of windows for light. It also has many internal features to block it. So there are areas of bright light with dark shadows next to them. The building creates so much contrast. You need to be there at the right time. It is perfect for black and white photography.
I’ve always shot this building before. And I will shoot it again in the future. Here are those articles:
- More articles in the future
Do you like these photos? If you do, or even if you don’t, let me know. Constructive criticism is appreciated.
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