There is something magical about stepping into the woods on a crisp autumn morning—when the air bites just a little, the ground is soft with fallen needles, and the forest feels quieter, as if holding its breath. Richmond Nature Park was exactly that quiet sanctuary when we set out for a walk in search of mushrooms, the small hidden treasures of the season.
At first, the chill lingered. My hands tucked themselves deeper into my pockets, and each exhale made a small cloud in the cold air. But there’s a warmth that comes not from the temperature, but from the excitement of discovery—and on this walk, that warmth found us quickly.
We spotted our first mushroom just off the trail, a small caramel-colored cap glowing against the moss. Then another. And another. Soon the forest floor transformed into a living gallery—tiny orange clusters, tall slender stems, white caps dusted with morning dew. Each one felt like a little secret revealed only to those who slowed down enough to notice.
There is a joy in mushroom hunting that has nothing to do with collecting and everything to do with paying attention. You walk softer. You look closer. You stop often, kneeling near old logs or peeking under salal leaves, letting the forest guide your gaze. And with every new find, the chilly morning no longer felt cold at all. Instead, the woods wrapped around us like a gentle, earthy embrace.
By the time we looped back toward the trailhead, our hearts were full. The mushrooms—delicate, strange, beautiful—reminded us that autumn is more than the color of leaves. It’s a season of hidden wonders, of quiet magic waiting at our feet.
Every walk has a story, but this one felt like a treasure hunt—one where the reward wasn’t what we found, but how the forest made us feel: attentive, grateful, and wonderfully alive.
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I’ve been meeting poppies everywhere lately — in neighborhood gardens, along sidewalks, scattered through botanical paths. They seem to exactly where I need a moment of color, rising from unexpected corners with effortless cheer. This new series grew out of those small encounters. It emerged from the simple joy of seeing their bright petals catching the light in ordinary places.
Found in Passing, Held in Memory
What draws me to poppies is their presence. They stand together in the field like a group of friends deep in conversation, leaning toward one another, sharing the breeze. Even a single bloom on the sidewalk can feel like a quiet gift — a reminder that beauty doesn’t need a perfect setting to be felt.
In these photographs, I wanted to hold onto that feeling. Instead of capturing every detail, I softened the edges, allowing the colors to blend into painterly tones. The flowers feel less observed and more remembered, as though they are lingering impressions from a walk on a warm afternoon.
Light That Softens the World
The dreamy quality of this series comes from the way the light touched them. Sometimes the sun was gentle, sometimes it glowed a little brighter, but it always wrapped around the petals with a softness that felt almost tender. I followed that light — letting it blur backgrounds, soften outlines, and create a quiet space for the colors to breathe.
A Small Joy, Elevated
Sidewalk poppies have a way of shifting a day. They are bright and unbothered, offering a moment of happiness to anyone passing by. I wanted this series to carry that same energy — subtle, uplifting, and easy to step into. Each image is an invitation to pause, to notice, to feel something uncomplicated and warm.
A Painterly Dream
As the series grew, the photographs began to take on a dreamlike character. Petals blurred into soft washes of color. Stems dissolved into gentle strokes. The images felt more like quiet paintings than photographs — small reveries shaped by color, memory, and mood.
Why These Poppies Matter
This work is a reflection of how I’ve been seeing the world lately: finding beauty in unexpected corners, feeling connected to small, passing moments, and letting everyday flowers become tiny anchors of joy. These poppies reminded me that softness exists everywhere if I slow down enough to notice it.
I hope these images carry some of that feeling forward — a calm, gentle brightness that lingers long after the flower is gone.
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Continuing with my journey into the world of vintage lenses, I am excited to introduce you to the latest addition to my collection: the Mamiya Sekor 55mm f/1.8 M42 mount lens. This gem has quickly become one of my favorite lenses, not just for its optical qualities but for the way it has transformed how I approach photography.
The first thing that struck me about this lens was its build quality. It feels solid and well-crafted, a testament to the era when it was made. When I took the lens out for its first test run, I was immediately captivated by its unique character. The lens produces a soft, dreamy bokeh at f/1.8 that is perfect for portraits and close-ups, giving the background a beautiful blur that makes the subject stand out. It has a way of capturing light that feels almost nostalgic, as if each image holds a piece of the past.
Cosmos Blossoming in the Summer Sun
The manual focus forces me to slow down and be more intentional with each shot. It is a different experience from using modern autofocus lenses, but one that I have found incredibly rewarding. There is a certain joy in manually turning the focus ring, feeling the mechanics of the lens in your hand, and knowing that you are fully in control of the image you are creating.
Burst of Summer Color
I have been able to explore new creative avenues and push myself out of my comfort zone. It is reminded me that photography is not just about capturing the perfect shot—it is about the process, the experience, and the stories you tell along the way.
The Essence of Bloom
If you are looking for a lens that combines vintage charm with excellent optical performance, the Mamiya Sekor 55mm f/1.8 is a fantastic option. It is particularly appealing for those who enjoy the manual process of photography and want to explore the unique characteristics that older lenses bring to the table.
Hummer’s Favorite – Crocosmia
This lens is a reminder that photography is not just about sharpness and clarity—it is about the emotion, atmosphere, and story that each image conveys. This lens, with its vintage charm and solid performance, is a perfect tool for photographers who want to capture those stories in a unique way.
Stay tuned as I continue to explore and share more about my experiences with vintage lenses. There is always something new to discover, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next!
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In the ever-evolving world of photography, where digital technology and modern optics often dominate the scene, there is something undeniably magical about vintage lenses. These classic pieces of glass offer a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and character that can transform the way we see and capture the world. Among the myriad of vintage lenses, two stand out in my collection: the Takumar 55mm f/1.8 and the Fujinon 50mm f/1.4. These lenses are not just tools; they are storytellers that have added a timeless touch to my photographic journey.
Takumar 55mm f/1.8: A Love Affair with Pentax’s Classic
Discovering the Takumar
My journey with vintage lenses began quite serendipitously. One weekend morning, during a trip back home last winter, I was browsing the internet for photography inspiration when I stumbled upon an article about vintage lenses. Intrigued, I scrolled through the showcased photos, captivated by how different and unique they looked. The images had a distinct, nostalgic quality that instantly drew me in. Since I did not have any specific plans for the next week or so, I thought, why not make “vintage lens discovery” my photography theme?
I searched for places in my neighborhood that sell vintage lenses and, fortunately, discovered Len Xoay Tay—a vendor specializing in vintage lenses. The owner is an enthusiastic photographer himself, which added to the excitement. One of the lenses I happened to check out at Len Xoay Tay was the Takumar 55mm f/1.8. The weight, the cold metal, the smoothness of the focusing ring—all of it spoke to a bygone era of meticulous craftsmanship. It was love at first sight.
The Magic in the Glass
Using the Takumar 55mm f/1.8 for the first time was like stepping back into the golden age of photography. The lens’s optical qualities were a revelation. Wide open at f/1.8, it produced a dreamy bokeh that wrapped around my subjects like a warm embrace. The color rendition had this unique warmth, a nostalgic tint that made every shot feel like a memory. It is not just about sharpness with this lens; it is about the soul it imparts to each image.
Salmonberry in early morning sunlight
I remember my first outing with the Takumar vividly. I was in a quaint little town, exploring its narrow streets and vintage architecture. The lens brought everything to life in a way that felt both familiar and fresh. The soft, swirly bokeh turned mundane backgrounds into beautiful canvases, and the slightly subdued contrast added a cinematic quality to the shots. It felt like I was capturing moments from an old film, scenes imbued with emotion and history.
Nostalgia
A Testament to Craftsmanship
The Takumar is not just a joy to shoot with; it is a joy to hold. The build quality is exceptional, with an all-metal construction that feels both durable and elegant. The tactile experience of turning the focus ring, with its smooth, well-damped motion, makes manual focusing a pleasure rather than a chore. It is a lens that demands to be used, not just stored on a shelf.
Summer Vibes
Fujinon 50mm f/1.4: Fujifilm’s Vintage Treasure
A Fortunate Find
A couple of weeks after adding the Takumar to my lens collection, I bought the Fujinon 50mm f/1.4 from the same vendor. I had been searching for a fast, vintage prime lens, and when I saw this one, I knew I had to have it. Its reputation preceded it—known for its sharpness, creamy bokeh, and distinctive character.
Como Lake in a Spring Morning
Unleashing Creativity
The first time I shot with the Fujinon 50mm f/1.4, it felt like unlocking a new realm of creative possibilities. The lens’s fast aperture allowed me to shoot in low light with ease, and the resulting images had a beautiful, ethereal quality. The bokeh was nothing short of mesmerizing, with a subtle swirl that added a touch of magic to out-of-focus areas.
Radiant Elegance: The Red Poppy in Full Bloom
What really sets the Fujinon apart is its sharpness. Even at f/1.4, the lens delivers impressive center sharpness, with a gentle fall-off towards the edges. This characteristic made it my go-to lens for capturing intimate moments, where I wanted the subject to stand out against a beautifully blurred background. I recall a quiet morning walk in the woods, where the Fujinon perfectly captured the delicate interplay of light and shadow among the trees. It was a serene experience, and the photos felt like little pieces of poetry.
Summer Vibe at Nitobe Memorial Garden
Built to Last
The Fujinon 50mm f/1.4 is a solid piece of kit. Its all-metal body exudes a sense of reliability, and the smooth focus ring and clicky aperture ring are a joy to use. It is a bit heftier than the Takumar, but that extra weight adds to its stable handling, especially when shooting wide open. It is a lens that feels good in the hand and looks great on the camera.
Why I Love Vintage Lenses
Choosing vintage lenses like the Takumar 55mm f/1.8 and Fujinon 50mm f/1.4 is not just about the technical aspects; it is about the experience. These lenses have a soul, a unique character that modern lenses often lack. They bring out the artist in me, encouraging me to slow down, compose thoughtfully, and savor the process of creating images. The quirks and imperfections of these lenses add a layer of authenticity to the photos, making them feel more personal and intimate.
Sunlit Serenity: The Blue Coneflower’s Glorious Glow
Moreover, vintage lenses are a window into the past. They connect me to the history of photography and the legacy of great photographers who came before me. There is something deeply satisfying about using a lens that has been around for decades, knowing that it has seen and captured countless stories.
Final Thoughts
The Takumar 55mm f/1.8 and Fujinon 50mm f/1.4 are more than just lenses; they are companions on my photographic journey. They have taught me to appreciate the beauty of wabi-sabi (the art of imperfection) and to find joy in the act of creation. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a passionate hobbyist, I highly recommend exploring the world of vintage lenses. You might just find, as I did, that they bring a new dimension to your photography, one that is rich with character and nostalgia.
Explore more of my photos taken with vintage lenses here:
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My “Tokyo Station by Night” image has been accepted into the 2024 Canadian Association for Photographic Art Digital Salon Competition and was digitally exhibited during CAPA Annual Conference in June 2024.
This year, two Vietnamese photographers made it to Top Awards, and five Vietnamese photographers’ images have been selected for displays at CAPA Annual Conference.
“On behalf of the Canadian Association For Photographic Art (CAPA), the International Association of Art Photographers (IAAP), and the CAPA DIGITAL SALON, we send our joyous Congratulations to you!
With over 4,400 images submitted, you should feel very proud of your participation in a competition of this magnitude and stature.“
The image, “Tokyo Station by Night” was created in camera with five different exposures and further enhanced contrast in Lightroom. This was taken at Tokyo Central Station – a landmark of Tokyo and nationwide railway network hub in Japan since its open in 1014 – during my trip back home late 2022. The station was designed by Kingo Tatsuno – the father of modern Japanese architecture, who also widely known for his work as the designer of the Bank of Japan in 1896.
The results of the competition is posted at CapaSalon.ca
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I first discovered long exposure photography during an online workshop with Sharon Tenenbaum in 2022. I immediately fell in love with the technique for its ability to capture the passage of time in a single image, opening my eyes to a new world of creative possibilities. From the flowing motion of water to mesmerizing waterfall, long exposures have allowed me to see and capture moments that are usually invisible to the naked eye.
Long exposure photography involves using a slow shutter speed to capture the movement of time. This technique can create stunning visual effects.
Sunset at Gladstone ParkBlue Hour looking over Knight BridgeSerene Morning
Long exposure images of sunsets meeting water create mesmerizing scenes where time appears to stand still. With the shutter open for extended periods, the water takes on a silky texture, reflecting the warm hues of the setting sun like molten gold. The motion blur of waves crashing or gently lapping against the shore adds a dynamic element to the composition, while the gradual transition of colors in the sky lends an ethereal quality to the scene. These images evoke a sense of tranquility and wonder, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature’s fleeting moments.
Dramatic SunsetTranquilitySerenity
Waterfall is one of my favorite subjects to explore and capture with long exposure technique. Images of waterfalls weave a mesmerizing tale of motion and stillness, capturing the relentless flow of water with graceful elegance. As time stands still, each droplet cascades down with a sense of fluidity, painting ethereal trails against the rugged backdrop. In these photographs, the turbulent energy of the waterfall is harmonized into a tranquil symphony, where the rush of water transforms into a serene dance of light and shadow. Through the artistry of long exposure, every image becomes a testament to the enduring beauty and power of nature’s gentle fury.
Flowing Whispers
Long exposure photography has transformed the way I see and capture the world. It has taught me patience, precision, and the beauty of the unseen. Whether I am shooting the vibrant energy of a city at night or the serene flow of a river, long exposures allow me to create images that captivate and inspire.
So, grab your camera, set up your tripod, and dive into the magical world of long exposure photography. Trust me, you will not regret it. Happy shooting!
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As Mother’s Day and my Mom’s birthday approaches, I find myself reflecting on the importance of the occasion and how I can truly make her feel special. In a world dominated by digital communication, I have decided to take a step back and embrace the timeless tradition of sending a handwritten card adorned with photographs of flowers she loves.
Preparing for my Mom’s birthday has been an opportunity for me to express my love and gratitude to her. I have delved into my collection of flower photographs, selecting images that capture the vibrant colors, delicate petals, and graceful beauty of the blooms she adores.
Combining flower photography with handwritten sentiment adds an extra layer of personalization to the card. Each photograph serves as a visual reminder of the beauty of nature that she so appreciates, evoking feelings of joy, serenity, and admiration.
There is a certain intimacy that comes with the act of selecting and including flower photographs in a card. It is a reflection of the time and effort invested in capturing the essence of her favorite blooms and arranging them in a way that brings her happiness.
But beyond the aesthetic appeal, there is a deeper connection forged through the use of flower photography. As I sift through my collection, I am reminded of the moments we have shared admiring gardens, exploring floral markets, and simply enjoying the beauty of nature together. Each photograph is a testament to the love and connection we share as mother and daughter.
In a world where digital images are ubiquitous, there is something special about holding a physical photograph of her favorite flowers in your hands. It is a tangible reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds us and the bond we share.
So, as I prepare to send my mom her birthday card adorned with flower photographs, I am reminded of the significance of this simple yet meaningful gesture. It is not just about marking another year passing; it is about expressing gratitude, love, and admiration in a way that is uniquely personal and heartfelt.
To all those contemplating how to celebrate their loved ones’ special occasions, I encourage you to consider the power of combining handwritten sentiment with personal flower photography. In a digital world where communication often feels fleeting, taking the time to craft a heartfelt message accompanied by images of her favorite blooms can make all the difference. Let’s bring back the personal touch and make meaningful connections one flower-filled card at a time.
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After pondering over the task of selecting my most favorite images from 2023, I have finally committed to this personal project. With life now settling into a rhythm following my immersive journey through Asia, revisiting my 2023 collection brings me immense joy. Each image evokes memories for which I am deeply grateful.
In 2023, I celebrate the second year of my photographic journey. These past two years have been filled with incredible opportunities behind the lens, empowering me to create and convey my innermost self. Photography has bestowed upon me a newfound appreciation for life’s simplest pleasures, a medium through which I freely express my emotions, and a gateway to forging meaningful friendships along the way.
Echoing Ansel Adams’ words, “You don’t make a photograph just with a camera. You bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read, the music you have heard, the people you have loved.” The following 12 images encapsulate the essence of my yearlong journey. Each place and every moment holds a deeply cherished place in my heart. I hope you find pleasure in exploring my images, and I am delighted if any of them resonate with you.
Nature
Capturing the beauty of nature is a passion that fills me with immense joy. Immersing myself in the serene landscapes and vibrant colors allows me to appreciate nature’s wonders deeply. With each click, I seek to preserve the fleeting moments, from delicate petals to the majestic mountains. Exploring the outdoors with my camera allows me to connect with nature on a deeper level while preserving its splendor for others to enjoy.
Of all flowers, cherry blossoms have always been my favorite subject to photograph. Every year, their blooming marks the arrival of spring, lifting spirits after the darkness of winter. I feel fortunate to have lived in Japan for numerous years, and now in Vancouver, where nearly every street corner is adorned with pink blossoms every spring, boasting thousands of different types of cherry trees.
I found immense joy in observing the quarter moon suspended above the blooming cherry tree. Capturing this image of the Yamazakura tree was a serene moment during my journey home from work, taken at Marine Cres.
During an early morning stroll along Bayshore in Vancouver, I caught sight of the full moon. Despite the biting cold and frosted plants, the serene scene of the moon overhead and birds gracefully gliding about made it a profoundly peaceful morning.
As I made my way back from an afternoon stroll at Mundy Park, Coquitlam, I was captivated by the stunning sidelight filtering through the trees. The gentle illumination beautifully highlighted the leaves, infusing joy into the hearts of hikers, bikers, and park strollers who cherish their time amidst nature’s embrace.
During the summer, a couple of delightful yellow-tail butterflies graced the courtyard of a student residence near my office. It seemed drawn to the beauty and sweet fragrance of the lavender, much like myself. I felt overjoyed to capture a shot of the butterfly, especially when a bee decided to join the party, adding an extra touch of charm to the scene.
Sunset
Capturing the breathtaking beauty of sunset scenes is a passion that ignites my soul. There is something truly magical about witnessing the sky ablaze with vibrant hues as the sun dips below the horizon, painting a masterpiece of colors across the canvas of the heavens. Each sunset is a unique symphony of light and shadow, evoking a sense of wonder and awe within me. I enjoy capturing the serene beauty of the fading sun, preserving these fleeting moments of tranquility for eternity. Whether it is the silhouette of trees against a fiery sky or the reflection of colors dancing on calm waters, photographing sunsets fills me with a profound sense of joy and reverence for the natural world.
In 2023, Gladstone Park in the neighborhood became my daily retreat during the blue hour, offering a perfect vantage point to witness the mesmerizing sunsets and conclude each day on a serene note.This sunset sky is one of the most dramatic and breathtaking I have ever witnessed.
I captured this image during sunset in North Vancouver using intentional camera movement. I love the contrast between the ocean’s blue hues and the golden glow of the setting sun reflecting on the water.
An iconic scene: high-rise apartments lining the Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. I aim to capture the high-rise buildings from a unique perspective, using multiple exposures to create a blurred cityscape effectduring the blue hour.
Vancouver’s Nine O’Clock Gun was one of the highlight of my photography course I took in 2023. After an evening stroll through Stanley Park, we eagerly awaited the firing of the cannon.
Autumn Scene
Autumn holds a special place in my heart, perhaps because I was born in October, making it my favorite season. I love everything about autumn—the crisp air, beautiful blue sky, vibrant foliage, and cozy atmosphere evoke a sense of nostalgia and renewal. It is a season of change and introspection, reminding us to embrace new beginnings and cherish the beauty of transformation.
This courtyard behind my former office is my favorite spot. During springtime, the place is adorned with shades of pink, while in autumn, it is carpeted with colorful foliage.I often enjoyed lunch breaks here, relishing the fresh air on pleasant days.
Before our office relocation last fall, I dedicated some time to capturing the beauty of the courtyard at St. John College. The serene beauty of this place never fails to captivate me.
I enjoy letting my imagination roam free as I immerse myself in the stunning autumn scenery.I aimed to evoke a painterly effect, as though the scene were rendered in watercolor, enhancing depth and blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
Impressionism
I have a strong affection for the impressionist style in photography. Its ability to capture fleeting moments and evoke emotion through light, color, and texture resonates deeply with me. Through impressionist techniques such as intentional camera movement and multiple exposures, I enjoy exploring the ethereal and dreamlike qualities of the world around me. By embracing this artistic approach, I find a unique means of expressing my vision and inviting viewers to experience the beauty of the world in a new and captivating way.
I found joy in capturing the movement within the bustling urban settings of vibrant Quebec City. I love the striking contrast of the red brick wall and white window, creating a perfect backdrop for the vibrant passersby in their colorful attire.
View the whole collection here:
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As an art lover navigating the intricate web of visual expression, I have found myself drawn to the captivating interplay between painting and photography. From the earliest strokes of my brush to the click of my camera shutter, the relationship between these two mediums has been a constant source of inspiration and discovery, shaping my creative journey in profound ways.
A Dance of Influence
Reflecting on my artistic beginnings, I recall my early fascination with drawing flowers using graphite and colored pencils as a child. As I grew up, I delved into watercolors and acrylics, particularly enjoying landscape painting. Through self-teaching during high school, I also discovered the joys of oil and pastel painting, cherishing each technique for its distinct and rewarding results. The act of applying pigment to paper and canvas allowed me to convey emotion and narrative through the delicate dance of color and form.
Since moving abroad, I have had the opportunity to explore numerous destinations. With a love for travel, I often capture moments with my cellphone and point-and-shoot camera to document my experiences. Surprisingly, what began as a casual hobby with a point-and-shoot camera a decade ago has evolved into a passion for photography, becoming my primary means of expressing feelings and emotions through the raw immediacy it offers.
With camera in hand, I discovered a new way of seeing the world—a way that was both intimate and expansive. Photography offered me the ability to freeze moments in time, capturing fleeting emotions and ephemeral beauty with unparalleled precision. It was during this period of exploration that I began to recognize the symbiotic relationship between painting and photography, each informing and enriching the other in unexpected ways.
Finding Harmony in Contrast
Initially, I relied on my photographs as references for my paintings, replicating the scenes using various drawing techniques. Yet, as I delved deeper into both mediums, I noticed their distinct characteristics. Painting granted me the freedom to unleash my imagination, altering elements of the scene as I pleased.
Red Poppies taken with my cellphoneRed Poppies in Oil Pastel on Mixed Media paperCentral Park (Burnaby) captured with my cellphoneCentral Park (Burnaby) in Pastel on Mixed Media Paper
In contrast, photography compelled me to embrace the unadulterated reality, capturing moments as they unfolded with honesty and clarity, challenging me to convey raw emotions and authentic narratives.
At times, this contrast felt daunting, as if I were torn between two worlds with divergent paths. Yet, it was precisely in this tension that I found my greatest source of inspiration. I began to experiment with blending elements of painting and photography, seeking to reconcile their differences and forge a new aesthetic language that spoke to my unique vision.
A Journey of Integration
To enhance my photography skills, I immersed myself in books and attended various photography workshops. A highlight was joining the “Develop Your Creative Vision” workshop in 2023, led by esteemed Canadian photographers Chris Harris and Dennis Ducklow, where I explored the camera’s potential as a tool for artistic expression.
I discovered a fresh sense of liberation and potential as intentional camera movement and multiple exposure techniques became my allies. These methods enabled me to blend the tactile qualities of painting with the precise capture of photography seamlessly. With every shutter click, I approached a synthesis of mediums, transcending conventional boundaries and inviting viewers to perceive the world from my perspective. All images are crafted in-camera, employing intentional camera movement and multiple exposure techniques. They can then be further refined and enhanced using Lightroom.
Lost in the ForestSwaying in the Wind
Yet, beyond the technical aspects, it was the emotional resonance of my work that truly began to flourish. By embracing the inherent tension between painting and photography, I found myself tapping into a deeper wellspring of creativity, one that spoke to the complexities of the human experience in ways that words alone could not.
Embrace the NatureSight of Spring
Looking Ahead: A Canvas of Infinite Possibilities
As I gaze into the future, I am filled with excitement and anticipation for the endless possibilities that lie ahead. The relationship between painting and photography is a journey—one that is ever-evolving and ripe with potential for exploration and discovery. In the digital age, where boundaries are blurred and conventions are challenged, I am eager to continue pushing the limits of my creativity, embracing the dance between mediums with open arms.
For me, painting and photography are not just tools of expression—they are mirrors that reflect the essence of who I am as an art lover, creator and as a human being. Through their interplay, I have discovered not only new ways of seeing the world, but also new depths of self-awareness and understanding.
In the end, it is this journey of self-discovery that fuels my passion and drives me forward. With each stroke of my brush and each frame of my camera, I am reminded of the boundless potential that lies within me—a potential that is as vast and as limitless as the canvas of my imagination. And so, I continue to dance—the dance of painting and photography—guided by the rhythm of my heart and the whispers of my soul.
Additional images from my ICM collection are available for viewing here.
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In Vancouver, British Columbia, spring unfurls its vibrant tapestry, showcasing the city’s cherished spectacle—the ephemeral allure of more than 40,000 cherry trees bursting with pink and white blooms. Every year, these fleeting blossoms adorn the urban landscape with their delicate hues, casting a spell on both residents and visitors. Amidst the countless locations where these blooms captivate, such as Stanley Park, David Lam Park, Queen Elizabeth Park and VanDusen Botanical Garden, there are a few cherished spots that stand out as quintessential havens for immersing oneself in their awe-inspiring splendor. As someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, I often find myself drawn to these beloved locations, where every bloom tells a story of life and renewal.
The University of British Columbia (UBC) Campus
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of the UBC campus, cherry blossoms transform the already picturesque surroundings into a scene reminiscent of a fairytale. Main Mall, Memorial Road, Lower Mall (from Place Vanier Student Residence to Nitobe Memorial Garden), Health Science Mall (in front of UBC Hospital), and Westbrook Mall (in front of Regent College) become ethereal tunnels of blossoms, inviting visitors to wander beneath their canopy and immerse themselves in nature’s splendor.
Nitobe Memorial Garden
Step into a tranquil oasis at the Nitobe Memorial Garden, nestled within the UBC campus. Here, cherry blossoms adorn traditional Japanese gardens, creating a serene atmosphere that transports visitors to another world. As you wander through winding pathways, cross arched bridges, and pause at peaceful ponds, the cherry blossoms serve as a reminder to appreciate the beauty of nature and the harmony of life.
Marine Crescent
Just a short distance from UBC, Marine Crescent in Kerrisdale neighborhood offers another enchanting display of cherry blossoms. The residential street becomes a corridor of blooming cherry trees during spring, drawing admirers who come to marvel at nature’s transient splendor. Walking or cycling along Marine Crescent provides an intimate encounter with the delicate blossoms, inviting contemplation and appreciation of life’s fleeting beauty.
Victory Street in Burnaby
Venturing eastward from Vancouver, the city of Burnaby boasts its own cherry blossom spectacle along Victory Street. Lined with mature cherry trees, this charming residential street becomes a vision of pink and white during the springtime bloom. Residents and visitors alike gather to stroll beneath the canopy of blossoms, their soft hues contrasting with the verdant foliage and azure skies. Victory Street, nested near Sussex street, epitomizes the harmonious coexistence of urban living and natural beauty, offering a serene retreat amidst the bustle of daily life. This has been my beloved neighborhood for more than 3 years, where each spring, the blossoms paint the streets with a timeless beauty that never fails to inspire awe and gratitude.
Quesnel Dr
In the heart of Vancouver’s West Side, Quesnel Dr emerges as another must-visit destination for cherry blossom enthusiasts. This tree-lined street exudes an enchanting charm when the cherry trees burst into bloom, casting a dreamy aura over the neighborhood. From early morning walks to leisurely picnics beneath the blossoms, Quesnel Dr provides myriad opportunities to immerse oneself in the ephemeral beauty of springtime.
Graveley Street
Adding to the enchantment of Vancouver’s cherry blossom season, Graveley Street emerges as a hidden gem for those seeking a tranquil escape amidst nature’s splendor. Nestled in the heart of the city, this residential street becomes adorned with the delicate blooms of cherry trees during spring. The sight of pink and white petals fluttering in the breeze creates a serene ambiance, inviting passersby to pause and appreciate the fleeting beauty of the season.
As the cherry blossoms grace Vancouver with their fleeting presence, they serve as a poignant reminder of life’s transience and the importance of cherishing moments of beauty and joy. Whether wandering through the avenues of UBC, exploring the quaint streets of Burnaby, admiring the blooms along Quesnel Dr and Graveley Street, or meandering through the serene landscapes of Nitobe Memorial Garden, experiencing the cherry blossoms is an enchanting and unforgettable affair.
In the end, it is not just about witnessing the blooms—it is about connecting with nature, appreciating the simple joys of life, and finding solace in the fleeting moments of beauty that surround us. Through the lens of cherry blossoms, Vancouver’s beauty truly shines, reminding us to pause, reflect, and savor the magic of the present moment.
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Phuong Dinh 