I captured this evocative scene of a fisherman standing by the serene waters of the Bosphorus early in the morning to seize the first light of the day, with the magnificent Ortaköy Mosque, also known as Büyük Mecidiye Camii, serving as a stunning backdrop. Built-in the mid-19th century during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid I, the mosque is a prime example of Neo-Baroque architecture, renowned for its ornate exterior and spacious, light-filled interior. Located in the vibrant Ortaköy district, this area is famous for its lively cafes, markets, and picturesque view of the Bosphorus Bridge. The soft, golden hues of dawn illuminate the mosque’s intricate details, casting a tranquil glow on the scene.
The photograph, taken on January 14, 2011, features the mosque’s elegant Baroque architecture juxtaposed against the everyday life of the fisherman. The technical details of the shot include using a Canon EOS 60D with an EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM lens, set at a 24mm focal length. The camera settings were aperture priority mode with an aperture of f/4.0, a shutter speed of 1/3 second, and an ISO speed of 500. This blend of cultural heritage and daily life creates a timeless image that captures the essence of Istanbul, where history and modernity coexist harmoniously.