Istanbul is a city with a long history and a rich variety of landscapes, which makes it one of the great destinations for photography. It is built on two continents and surrounded by water, with Byzantine and Ottoman monuments, busy markets, ferries, hills and modern districts all within reach of each other. Here are seven of the best locations for photography in Istanbul, with a few tips for each.
1. Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)
This iconic mosque is known for the blue İznik tiles of its interior, its cascade of domes and its six minarets. The classic exterior view is from Sultanahmet Square and the park between the mosque and Hagia Sophia. Go at sunrise for soft light and few people. It is a working mosque, so dress modestly, expect it to be closed to visitors during prayer times, and be discreet with your camera inside.
2. Hagia Sophia
Built as a cathedral in the sixth century, later a mosque, then a museum and today a mosque again, Hagia Sophia is part of the Historic Areas of Istanbul, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its huge dome and its layers of history make it remarkable to photograph both inside and out. The exterior glows at sunset and looks impressive when lit at night.
3. Galata Tower
This medieval stone tower rises above the Galata district and offers panoramic views over the Golden Horn, the historic peninsula and the Bosphorus. The tower is also a subject in itself: the steep streets around it frame it between old apartment buildings, and those views are among the most photographed in the city. Early morning is best if you want the streets empty.
4. Grand Bazaar
One of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world, the Grand Bazaar is a great place to capture colourful stalls, lamps, carpets, ceramics and local crafts under painted vaulted ceilings. The light is low, so use a fast lens or raise your ISO. Ask before taking close portraits of shopkeepers; most are happy to agree. Note that the bazaar is closed on Sundays.
5. Bosphorus Bridge
This suspension bridge connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. It is not open to pedestrians, so it is photographed from the shore or from the water. The best-known view is from Ortaköy, where the small waterfront mosque stands in front of the bridge. A Bosphorus ferry gives you a different angle, and the bridge is lit in changing colours after dark.
6. Princes’ Islands
These islands in the Sea of Marmara are a ferry ride from the city and offer a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere. With wooden mansions, pine woods, sea views and almost no motor traffic, they are a good place for nature, architecture and quiet street photography. Büyükada is the largest and most visited island. The ferry trip itself is worth photographing, with seagulls following the boat and the skyline behind.
7. Istanbul Modern
This contemporary art museum stands on the Karaköy waterfront, in a building designed by Renzo Piano, and looks out over the Bosphorus. It is a good place to photograph modern architecture, reflections and clean lines, a contrast to the historic sites on the other side of the Golden Horn. Check the museum’s rules before photographing the artworks inside.
Practical Tips for Photographing Istanbul
- Start early. The famous sites are crowded from mid-morning. Sunrise gives you better light and empty squares.
- Use the ferries. They are cheap, frequent and offer some of the best views of the skyline.
- Respect places of worship. Cover shoulders and knees, remove your shoes where required and do not photograph people while they pray.
- Check the rules for tripods and drones. Both are restricted in many locations.
- Carry a light kit. Istanbul is hilly and you will walk a lot. One wide-angle and one standard lens cover most situations.
These are just a few of the many locations in Istanbul that are great for photography. Do some research before you go, choose the places that suit your interests and style, and leave time to wander: many of the best pictures in this city are found between the famous sights.
