Day 7/365: Aerial Perspectives at Kaohsiung's Martyrs' Shrine | DJI Mini 3 Pro + Leica D-Lux 8
The Location
The Kaohsiung Martyrs' Shrine sits on the mountainside of Shoushan, a stunning example of classical Chinese architecture. Originally built during the Japanese colonial period as the Takao Kotohira Shrine in 1910, it was later transformed and rebuilt in 1978 to honor the fallen soldiers and revolutionaries of the Republic of China.
Walking through the shrine is stepping into history. The symmetry is perfect. The details are intricate. Every element—from the sweeping roof tiles to the ornate decorations—tells a story of craftsmanship and reverence.
The Shoot
I started with an aerial perspective using the DJI Mini 3 Pro to capture the shrine's scale and relationship to the surrounding landscape. From above, you see the geometry, the courtyards, the way the building commands the mountain.
Then I switched to the Leica D-Lux 8 for ground-level exploration. The featured image captures the main hall with its distinctive architecture—the layered roofs, the decorated eaves, the symmetrical columns framing the entrance. Black and white photography strips away distraction and emphasizes the architectural lines and shadows.
The shrine was quiet that day. Respectful. The kind of place where you slow down and really look.
Why This Matters
Classical Chinese architecture is a visual language. Every curve, every proportion, every ornament serves a purpose. Photographing it requires patience and observation—finding the angle that reveals the intention behind the design.
This is what street and architectural photography teaches: the world is full of stories if you take time to see them.
The Gear
- Leica D-Lux 8 for ground-level shots
- DJI Mini 3 Pro for aerial intro
- Black and white conversion in post
Bonus Content
I created a NotebookLM video on Digital Asset Management—how to organize, back up, and manage your photography files as your collection grows. Check it out in the video description.
📍 Shoushan, Kaohsiung, Taiwan 📷 Leica D-Lux 8 + DJI Mini 3 Pro
This is Day 7 of my 365 Project—one photo every day for a year, exploring Taiwan's culture, architecture, and landscapes.
Want to learn photography? Join me for a workshop in Taiwan.