A guide to Street Photography in Istanbul
A few years ago I purchased, the now most worn out photo book in my collection, Alex Webb’s ‘City of 100 faces’. His body of street photography work in Istanbul. Alex Webb has long been one of my favourite street photographers, with his ability to capture the extraordinary in everyday life and his skills in building complex images with layering. In this collection of work, he really brings the city to life.
Istanbul is commonly rated one of the top cities in the world for street photography, and for good reason.
Despite it raining most the time I was last there, Istanbul proved such a character and scene-rich environment, that the weather hardly mattered. Rarely have I been able to slow down and find the rhythm of the street as quickly as I did there.
My favourite places in Istanbul for Street Photography
Galata Bridge
Stretching between old and new Istanbul, Galata Bridge is a constant flow of fishermen, commuters, tea sellers and drifting seagulls, making it one of the city’s richest stages to begin your street photography trip. I also recommend the squares surrounding the ferry terminals and Yeni Camii mosque on the south end of the bridge.
The Ferries
I spent way more time on Istanbul’s ferries than I planned to, captivated by the quiet, meditative feeling onboard and the way the changing daylight transformed simple commuter scenes into endlessly creative street photography moments. There are several models of ferries and each had it’s charm (although the older ones were my favourites).
Zeyrek
Tucked away from the busiest tourist streets, Zeyrek is full of steep alleys, weathered wooden houses and everyday local life that feels untouched by time.
The Grand Bazza
Full of chaotic scenes, the Grand Bazza offers merchants, shoppers, colours, shadows and plenty of energetic and often humorous photo opportunities. Top tip: avoid the touristy indoor section in the middle.
Kadıköy
Over on the Asian side of Istanbul, with a mix of busy food markets, café culture and relaxed seaside streets, Kadıköy offers a vibrant mix of colour, character and everyday life.
If you’re interested in learning about my next street photography workshop in Istanbul, click the link.
