大二爷伯 @ my neighbourhood

I didnt realise that there was an event going on next block and when i reached home, i quickly grabbed my M2, mounted with the canon 50mm f1.4, and went over with my mum to catch it.
Along the way, i was trying to warm up the roll of Trix that i removed from the fridge..:)

While some may wonder what's 大二爷伯 (Da er ye or also known as Hei Bai Wu Chang 黑白五常), they are basically Nether gods or constable deities for the underworld in Taoism.
The devotees on this day will hold a celebration and thanksgiving to the God and the mediums of Da Er Ye Bo (Da regards as elder where Er regards second, and Ye Bo means lord), the two Deities would give blessing to the devotees for the procession









From different temples, these mediums will move around the island.
























To add to the liveliness of the celebration, Geitai was setup to cater to both devotees as well as to the deities.

Nikon S2

It all started with the Canon LTM lenses that got me real interested to try the Nikkor lenses as well and it wasnt just me alone, there was a craze over these lenses in the market these days.
With that, the prices went incredibly high these days and its not easy to find a copy in good condition.

While i was about to give up searching for one, someone was selling the S mount version on Rangefinder forum at a reasonably price. With the advice from Jon, it didnt take me long before i commit myself to take over the setup. So instead of buying a Nikkor 5cm f1.4 in LTM mount, the similar price with a little top up got me a S2 rangefinder with the 5cm lens and a 2.8cm lens.

So now, im a Nikon S mount user :)

The S2 was introduced in 1955 and the main kit lens for this rangefinder was the famous nikkor 5cm f1.4 sonnar. This camera offers a 1:1 viewfinder with 50mm frameline.






This camera is light and the main feature was the focusing dial where shooting with one hand is made possible.


I was expecting something more terrible given the price it was sold but it turned out to be in pristine condition especially the lenses.



The only thing to note on the S2 was the mounting and dismounting of lens from the rangefinder which is uniquely the Nikon S manner. Once you get used to it, everything seems easy.

I have already ran 2 rolls of film over this camera and its really a user joy to use it.

Different trades on street

Most people of Hanoi make a living off the streets. While the rich owns a shop, the poorer ones will just find a way to set up their business along the same street.
The little walkway provided an equal opportunity for everyone to survive and depend on and with this, created a culture that is uniquely for this place.

















You can find almost everything in these streets.


A common sight to see peddler on streets










Back Alley hawkers




The only cinema in sight.


Craftsmen and Artist








This is the core of Hanoi and most people find what they need here. Its definitely a place that describe Hanoi best!

Old Quarters

This famous Catholic Church is situated at the center of the the Old Quarters.
Its one of the busiest place here especially with students!

It remains quiet and serene in the church despite its surrounding.