Shadow & Light Monthly #65

Shadow & Light is a list of curated photography stories, features, techniques, news and inspiration that I’ve come across this month.

In this final edition of 2024 we look at the quirky facades of Japan’s Love Hotels and discover a man who took a Polaroid photo every day. We look at the beautiful work of Alex Webb and some beautiful black and white photography from the streets of Havana.

So, with no further ado, I give you this month’s Shadow & Light Monthly. Go grab yourself a cuppa and enjoy this month’s selections below. Please let me know in the comments what you think.

Pick of the month – Quirky Facades of Japan’s Love Hotels Feature in François Prost’s Vibrant Portraits

In his captivating series Love Hotel, French photographer François Prost turns his lens on the playful and eccentric facades of Japan’s love hotels—establishments designed for short-term stays by couples.

During a 2023 journey from Tokyo to Shikoku Island, Prost documented these unique buildings, which take the form of castles, ships, and even pink whales. Reflecting elements of fantasy and local culture, these structures are designed to evoke romance and escapism, often with a “Disney-like” charm. Prost’s work offers a fascinating glimpse into this imaginative architectural subculture.

To explore Prost’s work further, visit François Prost’s website, and to read the full article, head over to This is Colossal.

Additional reads

This Man Took A Polaroid Every Day For 18 Years Until The Day He Died, And It’ll Break Your Heart

Jamie Livingston, a New York-based photographer, undertook an extraordinary project in 1979: capturing a Polaroid photograph every day. This visual diary spanned 18 years, concluding on October 25, 1997—the day he passed away.

Livingston’s collection of over 6,000 Polaroids offers an intimate glimpse into his daily life, relationships, and personal experiences. His later photographs, documenting his battle with cancer, include poignant images of his brain surgery scar and his engagement ring, symbolising his enduring spirit and commitment to the project.

To explore the full collection, visit the online gallery Jamie Livingston: some photos of that day. You can also read more about his remarkable journey in the full article on Bored Panda.

Master Photographer Alex Webb: A Journey Through Colour, Culture, and Human Connection

Alex Webb is a master photographer celebrated for his evocative, richly layered street photography that captures the vibrancy and complexity of everyday life across cultures. Known for his bold use of color and intricate compositions, Webb’s work immerses viewers in bustling street scenes, where every detail contributes to a story as intricate as it is authentic.

As a member of Magnum Photos, Webb has traveled extensively, documenting diverse regions from Latin America to the Middle East, blending artistic vision with documentary depth. His iconic books and global exhibitions have redefined the boundaries of street photography, cementing his influence in the world of visual storytelling.

To explore Webb’s work further, visit Alex Webb’s website, and to read the full article detailing his journey, head over to 121clicks.com.

And Finally – Havana street photography in Black and White: Capturing the City’s Soul with the Leica Q system

In his article, “Havana Street Photography in Black and White: Capturing the City’s Soul with the Leica Q,” photographer Eolo Perfido delves into the art of street photography in Havana, Cuba.

He emphasises the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, which are evident in its architecture, street scenes, and the daily lives of its residents. Perfido discusses how the Leica Q’s 28mm lens and intuitive controls enable photographers to capture the essence of Havana’s soul, highlighting the interplay of light, shadow, and texture in black and white imagery.

To read the full article on Havana street photography, visit Walking Photographer.

Until next time…

I hope you enjoy the articles above. Don’t forget you can follow my Shadow & Light magazine over on Flipboard if you’d like to see more of what I’m reading if you like what you’ve seen here.