(Translated from the original post on December 10, 2024)
Hello! This is Minew.
Lately, the subjects that have been catching my eye are "exhaust ducts"-the ones that are often installed along the sides of buildings.
Once they started catching my eye, I began taking photos of them whenever I found one. I've gradually built up a collection this way. Each one has a unique form factor, which makes them really interesting. I'll share a few of my favorites.
GR III, P mode, ISO100, 1/80sec, F4.0, -1.0EV, WB:Auto, Cropped to 35mm, Retouched (Crop, Level Correction)
This was the first one that caught my eye.
The four ducts are sturdily and organically twisted together, and the metal's texture is weathered by wind and rain. I was overwhelmed by its presence. On the other side of this wall is a Chinese restaurant. Inside, they might be frying rice over a strong flame.
GR III, P mode, ISO200, 1/80sec, F2.8, -1.0EV, WB:Auto, Retouched (Rotation, Crop, Level Correction)
This is an exhaust duct installed outside a yakitori restaurant.
It stands alone, giving a sense of reliability. Its shape also expresses its function. It looks like it does a good job. At dusk, the shop is preparing to open. I imagine the aroma of grilled chicken filling the air at night.
GR III, P mode, ISO200, 1/125sec, F4.0, +1.0EV, WB:Auto, Retouched (Crop, Level Correction)
A duct sticks out abruptly from the side of the building, resembling a large caterpillar.
It looks like it was added later. I wonder if it's been taken care of. The severity of the rust gives it a sense of age, as if it's been working hard behind the scenes.
GR III, P mode, ISO200, 1/400sec, F2.8, WB:Auto, Retouched (Crop, Level Correction)
The last photo shows a maze-like network of ducts running along the wall. It looks like a work of art.
Where does the air come in, and where does it go out? At first glance, they all looked connected, but upon closer inspection, that was not the case.
Each exhaust duct is designed differently, depending on its location and function. This reflects the skill and ingenuity of the designer. Every time I see one of these systems, I can't help but wonder if it was created with a lot of effort or with enjoyment.
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What did you think?
The challenge with these photos was reproducing the texture of the metal. Normally, I set the contrast to be slightly weaker when shooting. In this case, however, I strengthened the contrast during post-processing to adjust the tone.
Find subjects that catch your eye. What catches the eye varies from person to person. However, the GR allows you to casually take photos of things that catch your eye in everyday life and expands the range of subjects you can photograph.
By repeatedly taking and viewing photos, you will make new discoveries and develop a deeper appreciation.
Find things that catch your eye and take lots of pictures of them.
See you next time!
(Minew)
