Crowded bathing pool at the foot of a limestone quarry with children in the water and graffiti on the rock face, Canon AE1 Program 50mm, Nantes

Jardin Extraordinaire: This Time I Actually Looked at the Map

I headed back out with the Canon AE1 Program to capture more of the Voyage à Nantes, this time at the Jardin Extraordinaire—a hidden garden carved into an abandoned quarry. With the car at 48°C, it was sweltering, but the wandering through Chantenay and an unplanned brewery visit made the day worth every frame.

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Black and white photograph of a Nantes café window with the handwritten French phrase "On ne peut pas acheter le bonheur mais on peut acheter du bon vin" — you can't buy happiness but you can buy good wine.

YOU CAN’T BUY HAPPINESS, BUT…

“You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy good wine.” A philosophical photo essay exploring what Nantes, France teaches us about the good life—beauty as democracy, the right to solitude, and pleasure as infrastructure. Discover how black and white street photography reveals the architecture of everyday happiness in one of Europe’s most livable cities.

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The Basilica of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception in Lourdes, captured in black and white — clouds gathering, light slipping across stone and river, Canon 6D Mark II

Where I’ve Been: Life, Photos & Bursting Tyres

Life’s been moving fast—tyres bursting, kids flying the nest, and new creative paths unfolding. In this update, I share recent travels to Lourdes and Brittany, explore black and white photography, dabble in video and drones, and reflect on the ever-shifting balance between life, art, and storytelling.

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Street or people image from China orchestra tour used for Uncle essay, Fujifilm X100F 23mm

“Uncle” in Chinese Culture: Respect, Hierarchy and Family

In China, becoming an “uncle” isn’t just about family—it’s about respect, community, and tradition. This article explores the cultural differences in how age and wisdom are valued, reflecting on personal experiences of unexpected reverence, the selfie phenomenon, and the contrast between collectivist and individualist societies.

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Reflective image from China orchestra tour December 2024 January 2025, Fujifilm X100F 23mm

China – How a Journey Transforms a Man…

This reflective travelogue explores cultural contrasts and personal transformation during an orchestra tour in China. Blending photography, storytelling, and travel insights, it captures behind-the-scenes moments, the rhythm of daily life, and the evolving perspectives of a seasoned traveler. A journey through music, cultural exchange, and self-discovery unfolds in vivid detail.

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Arrivals hall at Nantes or Roissy airport on return from China orchestra tour, Fujifilm X100F 23mm

China Homeward Bound – XianJu to Shanghai, Shanghai to Beijing, Beijing to Roissy, Roissy to Nantes, Nantes to St Hilaire.

Join me on a journey from XianJu to Shanghai, Beijing, Roissy, and back to Nantes. From long waits at airports to unexpected meals in China, this article recounts the adventures, challenges, and small moments of respite during an unforgettable trip. A personal travel narrative filled with experiences and reflections.

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Shao Xing ancient quarter canal and humpback stone bridge at dawn January 2, hero image, Fujifilm X100F 23mm, Zhejiang

China – Shao Xing to Xian Ju

Discover the journey from Shao Xing to Xian Ju in this personal travel narrative. With vivid descriptions of China’s authentic streets, cultural imagery, and reflections on memory and endings, this piece blends humour with emotion. Explore the fleeting moments of a photographer’s last shots before heading home.

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Illuminated Chinese pagoda glowing against night sky in Shao Xing after Franco-Sino concert, Fujifilm X100F 23mm

China – Shao Xing

Explore Shao Xing through the lens of a French orchestra tour. From humorous toilet encounters to the serene beauty of a park, this article captures the city’s cultural vibrancy. Discover the perfect blend of tradition and modernity in Shao Xing, offering a unique perspective on travel and local life in China.

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Wide view of Hangzhou restaurant equipment wholesale market showing scale of woks and cookware, Fujifilm X100F 23mm

China – Hangzhou to Shao Xing

Join me on a reflective journey through Hangzhou and Shao Xing as I embrace small victories on New Year’s Day. From a bustling local market to the simple joy of finding the perfect gift for my son, today marks a quiet triumph that shifts my perspective on life’s challenges.

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Hangzhou concert hall stage with pre-performance lighting setup on New Year's Eve, Fujifilm X100F 23mm, Zhejiang

China – Shenzhen to Hangzhou

oin a musician’s journey through China on New Year’s Eve, filled with unexpected frustrations, cultural encounters, and personal reflections. From Shenzhen to Hangzhou, this piece offers an honest and humorous look at life on tour, highlighting the emotional ups and downs of travel, exhaustion, and celebration.

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Local Huizhou lunch or food spread during orchestra day trip from Shenzhen, Fujifilm X100F 23mm, Guangdong Province

China – Shenzhen day 4 – Shenzhen to Huizhou to Shenzhen.

Join me on a memorable day in China, where kindness and cultural beauty shape an unforgettable experience. From scenic lakes in Huizhou to unexpected connections with local fans, this journey through Shenzhen and Huizhou offers insights into travel, music, and the human connection. A tour to remember.

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