Aomori Nebuta Matsuri Lanterns

In norther Japan, these lanterns are made for the Aomori Nebuta Matsuri. I haven't had the opportunity to visit Aomori especially during festival time, but several smaller versions of these lanterns are currently on display in Tokyo Midtown.

Nikon D600 with Nikon 85mm f/1.4 AI-S @ f4.0, ISO 100, 1/50 sec.

Nikon D600 with Nikon 85mm f/1.4 AI-S @ f4.0, ISO 100, 1/40 sec.

Nikon D600 with Nikon 85mm f/1.4 AI-S @ f2.8, ISO 400, 1/320 sec.

Beat the Heat in Marunouchi

At Marunouchi district Bon Odori Festival I noticed these unusual frozen flowers on display. Many others also found these interesting and cool to the touch!

These shots and many more shots that night were taken with my ancient Nikkor 24mm AI F2.0. According to MIR, this lens was produced from 1977 through 1982. The focus barrel on my copy has been a little wobbly since I bought it in the early-90's when I lived in Florida. It is still plenty fast and sharp for such a compact and light lens. The only faster alternative from Nikon is the new Nikon 24mm f/1.4G ED AF-Swhich is well regarded and crazy expensive.

Nikon D600with Nikon 24mm f/2.0 Nikkor AI @ f4, ISO 400, 1/50 sec.

Nikon D600with Nikon 24mm f/2.0 Nikkor AI @ f4, ISO 800, 1/20 sec.