Lee

2015 is the year of the sheep, an animal that is regularly referenced in relation to the Japanese character due to a perceived tendency to unquestioningly follow others. A sweeping generalisation that admittedly contains some truth, and yet at the same time is almost comically incorrect.

For a nation of devout shoppers and bargain hunters, early January is nothing short of a gift from the New Year gods; the abundance of sales creating the perfect opportunity to rein in those inevitable back to work blues with a serious bout of retail-related therapy.

But, just like in all other aspects of life, there are no guarantees, and going home terribly disappointed is clearly still a distinct possibility.

At the start of a new year, the focus is very often on new beginnings, along with the changes that have occurred, and will continue to occur, around us. But some things never change. Not perceptibly anyway. And their beauty never, ever, fades.

Once again, regardless of the ups and downs of everyday life, photography has been a wonderful constant throughout the year — a source of exploration, creation, and on the odd occasion when things actually work out, genuine contentment. How many hours I’ve spent out and about, and how many miles I’ve covered, I couldn’t even begin to calculate. The only definite answer is a lot — an awful lot. But every minute and every step has been worth it, if only for the people I’ve met, and the places I’ve seen.

And below, as the title suggests, are a few of my favourites from the past 12 months. Some chosen simply for the results, others for what they mean personally. They aren’t in any particular order either, just divided into colour and monochrome. Oh, and clicking on any image will take you to the original post should you want to know more.

A selection that neatly wraps up Tokyo Times for 2014. So, until the new year, when normal service will resume, all the very best for 2015!

Whatever you do, and whether you dress up dogs ridiculously or not, have a very Merry Christmas!