Francisco Seco, an AP Photographer, finds joy in capturing the essence of daily life in various cities worldwide, offering a glimpse into the lives of its people during their unguarded moments. During a stroll on a ferry, Seco spotted a woman gazing at the water, leading to the creation of this captivating image.
Rationale Behind the Photograph
Photographing the everyday street scenes allows for a unique exploration of a city at a different rhythm, unveiling universal behaviors that take on distinctive characteristics based on the locale. Activities like commuting to work, leisurely walks, coffee breaks, or social gatherings are shared experiences among millions, yet each city and culture imbue these moments with their own nuances.
This particular photograph was taken aboard one of the ferries that traverse between the Asian and European shores of Istanbul, facilitating the daily commute of hundreds of thousands across the Bosphorus strait.
While these ferries primarily serve as a mode of transportation, they also serve as spaces where passengers can unwind during the 20- to 30-minute journey, engaging in conversations, sipping tea, flipping through a book, or simply basking in the serenity of the sea. Seco often seizes these moments to capture compelling shots.
On the day this photo was taken, Seco was en route from Kadikoy on the Asian side to Karakoy on the European side, seeking to document the city’s daily life after a prolonged period of computer work. For him, photographing Istanbul’s daily scenes is not just a profession but a gratifying experience that offers a fresh perspective and a deeper connection to the city he has called home for the past two years.
Insight into the Photography Process
During his ferry journeys, Seco meanders from one end to the other, exploring various angles and perspectives to encapsulate the essence of the scene.
Positioned at the bow of the ship, Seco captured the image through a window, hence the presence of reflections in the photograph. The railing visible on the right side of the image was actually situated behind him during the shot.
Opting for a Sony 50mm lens, Seco prefers prime lenses over zooms for their ability to prompt him to physically adjust his position rather than relying solely on zooming in and out.
The soft, golden sunlight filtering through the windows created the perfect ambiance for this shot. Seco patiently composed the image, aligning the woman’s gaze with the rails of the ferry, resulting in a visually compelling composition that he later confirmed as a standout shot upon reviewing his work on the laptop.
Success Factors of the Photograph
Istanbul, a bustling metropolis teeming with nearly 16 million residents, pulsates with ceaseless energy akin to a vibrant heartbeat.
Within this dynamic cityscape, this photograph encapsulates a rare moment of tranquility and respite, offering a glimpse of serenity amidst the city’s relentless pace.
As the ferry sailed towards the European side, passengers were treated to a mesmerizing view of the sun setting over the Golden Horn, casting a magical glow over iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace in the distance. This picturesque backdrop, coupled with the warm sunlight, thoughtful composition, and subtle reflections, collectively contribute to the allure of this image, serving as a tranquil interlude amidst the cacophony of conflicts and turmoil that often dominate the headlines.