Author: Jan Brezina

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Top 5 Places to Visit at Themes Bank in London (South of the River)

Top 5 Places to Visit at Themes Bank in London (South of the River)

London – The metropolis on the river Thames is one of the most picturesque places in the world. True paradise for every photographer. Magnificent architecture, colourful markets and cultural diversity are just some of the attractive spots and potentially amazing destinations one can find in less than a mile. So, it is all up to you to decide what to shoot first. But maybe you would like a professional advice, and thus you could have a chance to take unique photos of the vibrant city like London? In our guide, you can find the absolutely best places for a real adventure. That may result with some of the best pictures of city anyone has ever made.

 

1. London Eye

London’s Southbank is our location since it is a real hotspot with places like marvellous London Eye. Eye used to be the largest Ferris wheel in the world. It is still the largest in Europe but also one of the best viewing points in entire city.

London Eye

 

2. Tower Bridge

The bridge crosses the River Thames close to the Tower of London and has become an iconic symbol of London. Bridge is  also one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. It is one of the most visited attractions in London and  has stood over the River Thames since 1894. The bridge deck is freely accessible to both vehicles and pedestrians. Check the new  Tower Bridge’s Glass Walkway, one of London’s most unique experiences.

Tower Bridge

 

3. Borough Market

Perhaps the most colourful destination for every photographer in the city is the famous Borough Market. In this magnificent place, one can capture not only food sellers and their products but also human engagement and determination to show you magnificent culinary knowledge.

Borough Market

 

4. City Hall

The south bank of the river Thames is indeed a paradise for photographers, and one of the most interesting spots is surely the house of the Mayor of London, the great City Hall. Its magnificent and environmentally friendly architecture will enthral and inspire you to make unique photos, the ones no one else has ever made.

City Hall

 

5. The O2 Arena

The world’s busiest indoor arena, with numerous events being organised throughout the whole year is a frequent spot for many photographers who visit city. The grandiose building of the O2 Arena, named after its primary sponsor, is a place where almost all social gatherings occur on a daily basis.

Therefore, in case you decide to visit the city on the Thames, then spring and fall are the best options, for the city will inevitably offer you the best pictures during these two seasons of the year.

O2 Arena

 

Looking for more photogenic location at London, offline map, exact navigation and tons of photo tips for London? Download our travel photo guide app and enjoy exploration of South bank of Themes river. Fripito app is free of charge at iPhone and Android.

 

 

10 questions for Brian Wood-Koiwa

10 questions for Brian Wood-Koiwa

Brian Wood-Koiwa is author of Tokyo guide in our app. We asked him for short interview and here is 10 answers from him. We love urban photography and clean simplicity of Brian’s photos.

1. Can you introduce yourself little?

I am an American expat living in Tokyo, Japan. I’ve travelled around the world in my 20s and I have now settled down in Tokyo and have been living here for the past 14 years with my husband who is a Japanese citizen. I grew up in rural Pennsylvania in the US and living in the beautiful city of Boston before moving to Japan in 2000. I have not lived in the States since then and experience a bit of culture shock every time I visit the States (which is not often). I have lived in diverse locations such as the Republic of Congo as a Peace Corps Volunteer to southern Thailand as a science teacher in an English immersion program at at public junior/senior high school. I did not get into photography until around 2010, so I do not really have any photographs of my previous adventures – just a few snapshots here and there (and of course this was all pre-digital). I wish I were into photography then. I would have images of my experiences during a train robbery in the rainforests of the Congo and after the bombing of the US embassy in Nairobi, Kenya that occurred the same time I was visiting there.

2. What is you favorite photographic topic?

I love anything urban. I love cities, so street, architectural, and urban landscapes are what appeal to me. I tend to veer more to black and white, but I am not afread of and appreciate colour.

 

3. Are you full time professional photographer?

No, I am not…yet. I hope to be. My husband and I started a small business earlier this year centered around my photography for selling fine-art prints that I print in my little studio in our apartment and my seasonal photo-essay magazine UrbanWeird Photo. I also offer customized guided photo walking tours around the city (UrbanWeird Photo Explorations). All can be found at http://urbanweirdphotography.com.

Dinner in Yurakucho, Tokyo
Dinner in Yurakucho, Tokyo

4. Can you compare photographers life in US and Japan?

I cannot really, since I was never a photographer when living in the States. However, I do not think it is much different. There is a rich history of photography here in Japan just as there is in the US, especially when it comes to street photography.

 

5. Is it complicated to take street photography in Japan?

It is not really complicated.  As I said just above, Japan has a rich history of street photography, and people appreciate photography as an art form because of it. You just have to be considerate as you do in the US or other parts of the world. Japan in general is not a very confrontational society, so if a person does not appreciate you taking photos, he/she will most likely just give you a stern side glance or just say “no”; this is especially so in big cities like Tokyo.

 

6. Can you recommend 3 must see photo locations to visit in Japan?

The first is Tokyo. It is the largest metropolitan area in the world, so there is something for every kind of photographer. Another is Kita-Kamakura (North Kamakura) about an hour train ride south from central Tokyo. There are main accessible temples that have been there for centuries dotted along a road that leads to the downtown of Kamakura. It is much quieter than the downtown part and the temples all have unique qualities. Finally, there is the ole gal herself, Mt. Fuji. Fuji can be seen from central Tokyo (about 90 km west of the city) on a clear day. Since she is so close, it is not difficult to take a day trip out to see the iconic volcano.

Torii at Nezu Shrine in Central Tokyo
Torii at Nezu Shrine in Central Tokyo

7. What is your favorite camera or lens?

Well, I just switched camera systems a month ago and I am loving my new Fujifilm X-Pro2 – a great camera for urban photography – well, any kind of photography, really. It is not too big and not too small. The hybrid rangefinder/EVF is very useful. There is just a ‘je ne sais quoi’ quality to it. I use the excellent Fujinon 35mm (50mm full-frame equivalent) f2 lens. I have the Leica M-mount adaptor Fujifilm makes, so I can use my husband’s Leica 28, 50, and 90mm lenses as well.

 

8. Is there any dream photography job or destination for you?

My dream job is to be a fine-art photographer; to show in galleries and to have published photo books.

 

9. Do you see any difference between Japan and US photography today?

I cannot really speak for the entire country of Japan, but Tokyo photography tends to be a bit grittier; harkening back to the film days (which is having a resurgence). Also, not being afraid to combine things that may not be obvious to combine. e.g., combining the urban grit of Tokyo and the sublimeness of traditional japan which is still very evident in the city.

Looking down at Shibuya Crossing at Shibuya Station
Looking down at Shibuya Crossing at Shibuya Station

10. Why did you choose become Fripito author?

I Chose to become a Fripito author because I liked the combination of travel guide and serious photography – that it is geared toward photographer/photography enthusiasts. It also complements my UrbanWeird Photo Exploration photo walks.

 

Do you want see more Brian’s photos and enjoy great Tokyo tips? Download Fripito for iOS or Android and choose Tokyo guide! 

Top 5 most popular places at Madeira

Top 5 most popular places at Madeira

Madeira is ever green Portuguese island in Atlantic ocean. It takes just few hours of flight no matter you comes from Europe or US. Island is popular for all year nice weather and colorful landscapes. If you plan to explore Madeira, check out great video made by our friend Radek Hasa. If you are looking for more tips and less known locations at Madeira, try our Madeira travel photo guide.

 

Basic facts about Madeira:
Area: 801 km2 (309 sq mi)
Population: 289,000 (2016)
Language: Portuguese

 

 

What are the most popular places at Madeira?

1. Funchal

The capital city of Madeira Island have so much to offer. Go with Cable car up the hills overlooking the city and explore tropical garden. Down the hill on toboggan sled ride. Explore the old city by walk. Taste a greate local food. Try local Madeira wine. Chill with cup of coffee in lovely coffee places. Swim in the ocean. Take a boat ride to watch wheals and dolphins. Do some shopping. Just so many options for you to do in that place.

2. Porto Moniz

In this small beautiful town you can find the prettiest natural lava swimming pools on the island. Town is located at north-west part of Madeira. It takes approximately hour of driving from Funchal.  Definitely must see if you are visiting Madeira Island.

3. Pico do Arieiro

1,818 m (5965 feet) high mountain, is Madeira’s  third highest peak. If you want to feel like you are on the top of the world over clouds, you definitely should not miss this spot. There is easy road access to the summit, with a large car park. The hike is moderate and not recommended for people with knee or dizziness problems.

4. Levada Caldeirao Verde

Its easy trek that is 13km roundtrip, and will probably take 4-5 hours. It’s a beautiful walk and a torch is a must as you have to go through some dark tunnels. Recommendation is comfortable shoes, water, and snack. If you want to enjoy the trek alone come early (around 8am) to be the first one there.

5. Cabo Girao

View point 560 meters (1,840 ft) above sea level with a ‘glass floor’ under your feet. It is one of the highest sea cliff in the Europe. Recommendation is to go early. It can get busy by other people as it is one of the most visited attraction in Madeira. View point is 15 minutes of drive from Funchal.

 

Are you looking for more travel tips for Madeira? Download our Fripito app for free to iPhone or Android phone and explore 85 photo spots at island!