More than fifty years after it was completed, the Mount Angel Abbey Library still looks surprisingly modern — the kind of building that makes you stop mid-walk and immediately reach for your camera. Designed by legendary Finnish architect Alvar Aalto and completed in 1970, the library is one of those rare spaces that feels both […]

More than fifty years after it was completed, the Mount Angel Abbey Library still looks surprisingly modern — the kind of building that makes you stop mid-walk and immediately reach for your camera. Designed by legendary Finnish architect Alvar Aalto and completed in 1970, the library is one of those rare spaces that feels both […]

Every time I visit downtown Portland, I’m drawn to its effortlessly artsy atmosphere. There’s something special about the mix of creativity, indie culture, and laid-back energy. That said, like many urban areas, it’s natural to feel a bit cautious about safety or unexpected disturbances.

If you’re looking for places that are both photogenic and relaxed, here are a couple of neighborhoods I highly recommend:

Every time I visit downtown Portland, I’m drawn to its effortlessly artsy atmosphere. There’s something special about the mix of creativity, indie culture, and laid-back energy. That said, like many urban areas, it’s natural to feel a bit cautious about safety or unexpected disturbances.

If you’re looking for places that are both photogenic and relaxed, here are a couple of neighborhoods I highly recommend:

SALAM CITY Salem honestly surprised me this year with its cherry blossoms. Compared to Portland, it’s much less crowded, super photogenic, and even has a subtle “Japan-like” vibe that makes the whole experience feel a little extra special. If you’re planning to catch the blooms, here’s where I’d recommend: 📍 Oregon State Capitol The Capitol […]

SALAM CITY Salem honestly surprised me this year with its cherry blossoms. Compared to Portland, it’s much less crowded, super photogenic, and even has a subtle “Japan-like” vibe that makes the whole experience feel a little extra special. If you’re planning to catch the blooms, here’s where I’d recommend: 📍 Oregon State Capitol The Capitol […]

A lot of Asian families around Portland (including us!) live near Beaverton, Bethany, and Tigard, so I’ve been on a mission to find photo spots that are both convenient and beautiful—especially when you’ve got little kids in tow. After visiting quite a few places, these are two of my go-to locations for family photos that […]

A lot of Asian families around Portland (including us!) live near Beaverton, Bethany, and Tigard, so I’ve been on a mission to find photo spots that are both convenient and beautiful—especially when you’ve got little kids in tow. After visiting quite a few places, these are two of my go-to locations for family photos that […]