Istanbul is one of the most magical cities of the world. Divided between Europe and Asia, Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus strait between the Black Sea and the Sea of Marmara. With its rich history and diversity, it is without a doubt one of the most popular cities of the world to visit. Although I had previously been to Turkey once in my teenage years (which included a sightseeing tour of Istanbul), coming here feels like home. Perhaps because I used to be fluent in Turkish and hearing the language reminds me of my childhood, or perhaps it has to do with my memories of attending a Turkish high school in Uzbekistan. Whatever the case, I love the beautiful country of Turkey and I absolutely adore the magnificent Istanbul. Last night Lola and I celebrated our 10 year anniversary at one of the rooftops close to the Sultanahmet Mosque, also known as the “Blue Mosque” and as we were dining, I noticed the moon rise from the left side. I grabbed the Fuji X-Pro2 with the 56mm f/1.2 lens and took the below photo of the mosque.
X-Pro2 + XF56mmF1.2 R APD @ 56mm, ISO 200, 1/8, f/5.6
Apparently, one of the minarets of the Blue Mosque is going through maintenance, because it shifted by 5 cm and the renovation authorities decided that it is best to take the whole thing down brick by brick and completely rebuild it. Although I wish all six minarets were complete, this surely gives the Blue Mosque a different look, something that won’t last very long.
I wish I could stay here longer, organize a photo walk and meet some Turkish friends, but Lola and I had previously agreed that it would be our anniversary trip, so photography is not the primary priority. Thankfully, Lola does not mind me going out with a camera and taking pictures as we tour the city, so I should have some images to share in my upcoming Fuji X-Pro2 review. Speaking of which, the X-Pro2 is a one heck of a camera – coupled with a few superb X-mount lenses like the 10-24mm f/4, 35mm f/2 and 56mm f/1.2 lenses, it is a very capable kit for travel photography. More to come later!
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