Japan 2011 Photo Project Part IV Kyoto

Kyoto, Japan, a city known for it's numerous temples, is a very modern city, but still has that old country atmosphere. One of the most visited temples in Kyoto is Kinkaku-ji, or better known as the Golden Pavilion. The setting here is very serene and beautiful. Because Kyoto is a tourist destination it is very organized and easy to get around. 

After a long day of photographing, I went back to the hotel for some much needed rest. Carrying around a backpack full of equipment and a tripod, can wear you down. For some reason, I have in my head, that I need all my camera gear for that unexpected photo opportunity that will be my claim to fame. "Always be prepared"! With some much needed rest my wife and I, who has endured many of my photo excursions, and never complains, decided to go for a short walk. I chose to leave the hotel without my camera. I can only imagine what goes on in the mind of someone who is not as compassionate about photography as the person who is. After walking a few blocks, low and behold is a Geisha posing for anyone and everyone who wants to take a picture. One of my dreams is to photograph a Giesha in a typical Japanese setting. Wow! If only I had my camera, my dream would have been realized. Not to be discouraged, I ran back to the hotel to get my camera. Unfortunately when I returned the friendly Geisha had gone. I searched the area but the sun had set on this opportunity.   

What lesson can be taken away from my misfortune? I'm always torn when I have someone with me that is not interested in photography. Do I subject them to, oh wait he's taking another photograph, or do I not be selfish and let opportunities go by. There is a balance, but it depends on the situation, and the individual. If I was on my own to strictly photograph, then I would not hesitate to take my camera.  But when others are accompanying you that have different reasons to be there, then it's time to strike a balance.  If I had it to do over I would have done it differently, but this is lesson that I can say "I Learned From That".