I found myself back with the Aoyama Cemetery cherry blossoms in 2018. While I had hoped for a sunny day, the clouds had other plans. Still, the beauty of the sakura trees has a way of making you forget everything else, and I had a wonderful time.
Photographing sakura under overcast skies
The previous day was spent at AnimeJapan 2018, and I was feeling the effects. Waking up at 6 a.m. felt impossible, but with a surge of effort, I managed to get out of bed by 6:40. After a quick shower, I grabbed my camera gear and headed out. As I made my way to the train, the initial tiredness began to fade, replaced by excitement for the photos I was about to capture. By the time I boarded the train, I was fully awake and eager to start shooting.
Unfortunately, the conditions at the cemetery were less than ideal. A thick layer of clouds blanketed the sky, casting a drab, grey light over the morning. It wasn’t until the last thirty minutes of my visit that the weather began to clear. However, with Chidorigafuchi next on my list, I couldn’t afford to stay any longer. The cherry blossom season is so short (10 to 14 days) and I wanted to photograph as many places as possible.
How to get brighter flower photos
This time, I experimented with my photography technique. I typically rely on my camera’s light meter, but for this shoot, I decided to slightly overexpose my shots. I’ve often found that my flower photos can appear a bit dark, so I was pleased with the brighter results this time. It seems I’m on the right track, and I’ll continue to experiment with this approach.
Final thoughts on Aoyama Cemetery cherry blooms
While the Aoyama Cemetery cherry blossoms were close to their peak, I couldn’t return for another visit with so many other places on my list.
2018 cherry blossom season highlights
For those seeking a quiet and peaceful place to enjoy the cherry blossoms, Aoyama Cemetery (official website) is an excellent choice.
Aoyama Cemetery: Tokyo’s quietest hanami spot
Its tranquil atmosphere makes it an urban oasis in the bustling city of Tokyo.
Comparing Aoyama Cemetery and Shinjuku Gyoen
However, I must admit that the 2018 Shinjuku Gyoen cherry blossoms were spectacular. The weather during my visit was perfect, which truly enhanced the beauty of the flowers. Its only drawback is the large crowds it attracts.
My photography gear for this shoot
- Camera body: Fujifilm X-T2
- Lens: Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8
If you’re planning a shoot here, check out my full Aoyama Cemetery Photography Guide for the best vantage points. Please feel free to leave any questions or comments below.
