Istanbul

My visit to Istanbul in October 2019 concentrated on photographing people in the markets and the mosques. With few exceptions, nobody objected to being photographed and, indeed, many seemed happy to pose. This was particularly true in the main markets in the centre of town, no doubt because they are used to tourists taking an interest in them. However, where possible, I tried to take unposed, natural photographs of people going about their normal daily business.

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The Eyup Sultan Mosque in Balat, outside the centre of Istanbul, was less of a tourist attraction than the famous mosques in the centre. I was delighted that nobody objected to me wandering around inside with my camera and I was able to photograph the faithful reading, studying, praying and socialising inside the building and in the immediate environment.

On the Street

Playing, reading or relaxing on the street, and street vendors

Coffee shop

Backgammon

Checking his phone

Making notes

Reading the newspaper

Outside her house

Ice creams and Juice bar

Food stall

Roasted chestnuts

Sheltering from the rain

Fish sandwiches at the harbour

In the Markets

The Grand Bazaar apparently has over 4000 shops selling a variety of goods, including food and drink, clothing and jewellery. The fragrant Spice Market also sells dried fruits, nuts and Turkish Delight.