Saturday, May 24, 2025

Eminönü in the Rain, Istanbul, Turkey (Nov. 2024)

The Eminönü neighborhood of Istanbul includes the bustling docks facing the Golden Horn, Eminönü Square, and the steep twisty streets reaching up into the heart of the Fatih District. This is historic Istanbul, occupied for 2000+ years. It is a warren of twisting steep roads dating back to who knows when, possibly the Roman era? It is so much fun to be in a place that has been occupied for centuries. 


The Golden Horn from the Eminönü district

After a week of wonderful sun, the winter rain finally came. Wet streets and drizzle, perfect for some Tri-X. We will start at the waterfront near the Egyptian (Spice) Market and work our way up the hill towards Sultanahmet. Street life is a visual delight in Istanbul. Please click any picture to enlarge it.


Hanging around near the Egyptian Market (21mm Zeiss Biogon lens)
Near the Egyptian Market (35mm ƒ/2 Summicron lens)
Checking the shops near the Egyptian Market, Yeni Cami Cd
Fincancilar Sk, Fatih area
On the hill, Cakmakcilar Yks, Fatih
At the Grand Bazaar (at the end of the street)
Afternoon tea (or a cola??)
Chestnut vendor, Sultanahmet
Portrait at the Blue Mosque

Cemetery near Istanbul University

This ends our rewarding day in the rain and drizzle. The light is softer and the glistening alleys and streets add some interest. 

I took these photographs on Kodak Tri-X 400 film with a Leica M2 camera and 21, 35, and 50mm lenses.



7 comments:

Mike said...

Those sidewalk markets are pretty amazing. Seems like getting emergency vehicles into tight places would be tricky.

kodachromeguy@bellsouth.net said...

Indeed, emergency passage would be a challenge. I saw some Turkish ambulances. They were smaller vans than the ones we use in USA. A fire truck would be much harder to maneuver in those streets.

Markus said...

Wonderful mood in these images!

kodachromeguy@bellsouth.net said...

Thank you! Rain and drizzle help set the tone for street scenes. These pictures would have been very difficult on a sunny day, when parts of the scene would be in deep shadow.

kodachromeguy@bellsouth.net said...

Oops, I forgot to note: the classic Tri-X 400 is still a great choice for city and street photography.

Linda's Relaxing Lair said...

I love rain photos and this series of amazing pictures are captivating!

kodachromeguy@bellsouth.net said...

Thanks! Yes, rain is so interesting for photos. And Istanbul is an amazing setting for street photography.