It’s fun to capture the scenery of your destination using the latest single-lens reflex camera or smartphone. However, if you want to make your trip to Tokyo truly memorable, try shooting the unique city with film to capture its distinct colors. In this article, Editor-in-Chief Marei takes us on a walk around Jimbocho, a charming retro book town, with a film camera, in collaboration with Lomography+ (Lomography Japan).
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Exploring the World of Lomography
“Lomography+” is the sole Lomography store in Japan, located in Kanda Jimbocho. At this store, you can find a wide range of Lomography cameras and original films. The store’s staff is knowledgeable and eager to assist both beginners and experienced photographers with camera usage tips and film recommendations.
Lomography, founded in 1992, traces its roots back to the birth of the LC-A camera in 1982. A Soviet engineer developed the camera based on a Japanese model, resulting in the creation of the “LOMO LC-A.” In 1991, two students at the University of Vienna discovered this camera after the collapse of the Soviet Union and later established “Lomography” to showcase its unique appeal. Since then, Lomography has continued to develop and release different camera models, including the improved “LOMO LC-A+” and a variety of other types.
For this excursion, I selected two cameras: the LomoApparat Chiyoda Edition, which uses 35mm film, and the Lomo LC-A 120, which utilizes 120 film to capture square photos.
I opted for films developed and sold by Lomography. Lomography offers a variety of film formats, including 35mm, 110, and 120. Each format has its own uniquely developed films, allowing photographers to enjoy a consistent visual experience across different camera types. I chose “LomoChrome Metropolis 35mm ISO 100–400” for the 35mm film, featuring yellow and green color development, low saturation, and strong contrast. For the 120 film, I went with the black and white film “Berlin Kino 120 ISO 400”.
Discover Jimbocho, Tokyo’s Book Town
Jimbocho boasts numerous used bookstores specializing in vintage books, creating a nostalgic ambiance throughout the town. Both the desaturated ‘LomoChrome Metropolis’ film and the black and white ‘Berlin Kino’ film capture the essence of this city beautifully.
“LomoApparat” is perfect for capturing the city in a unique way, and when using the accessories, the possibilities for creative expression are endless.
Travel Back in Time to Old Japan!
Jimbocho area is adorned with numerous retro buildings, and capturing the city’s scenery with a Lomography camera (Lomo camera) creates a nostalgic sensation, transporting you back to old Japan.
From the Jimbocho area, you can easily explore “Tokyo’s Musical Instrument Town” and “Kanda-Ogawamachi Sports Goods District.” Make sure to visit these locations while indulging in a delightful photo walk!
Let’s Have a Little Coffee Break
Jimbocho boasts an abundance of retro cafes, including the popular new coffee stand, making it an irresistible destination for coffee aficionados. Concluding the photo walk, I took a moment to enjoy my favorite cafe of the area, “GLITCH COFFEE & ROASTERS.”
I captured shots around Jimbocho using two different lomo cameras. Upon reviewing the final photos, I noticed many unexpected elements, adding an intriguing aspect to the experience. I thoroughly enjoyed the element of surprise.
I encourage you to visit the Lomography store “Lomography+” and capture your unique Tokyo experience!
Lomography+
Website: https://www.lomography.jp
Location: Kyowa Kanda Building 2F, 3-16-1 Kanda Ogawamachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Nearest stations: Jimbocho Station, JR Ochanomizu Station
*Please note that “Lomography+” is currently in a pre-opening phase. Kindly refer to the official website for operating days.
GLITCH COFFEE & ROASTERS TOKYO, JINBOCHO
Website: https://glitchcoffee.com/
Location: Komura Building 1F, 3-16 Kandanishikicho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Nearest stations: Jimbocho Station, JR Ochanomizu Station
