Discover the Rhythm of Istanbul

To photograph Istanbul is to stand at the intersection of memory and immediacy where every frame carries echoes of the past and the pulse of the now. As Henri Cartier-Bresson reminds us, “to photograph is to put on the same line of sight the head, the eye, and the heart.” In this city, that alignment happens naturally.

Istanbul seduces and challenges all at once with its shimmering domes, rustling pigeons, ferry horns, the call to prayer, the hush of side streets at dusk. Its beauty, as Orhan Pamuk says, often resides in its melancholy; and yet, its spirit is undeniably alive. It’s a place of contrasts and collisions, where modernity and tradition do not merely coexist they converse.

As Alex Webb once observed, Istanbul’s complexity and deep history are not things of the past they manifest vibrantly in the present, through its people, architecture, textures, and colors.

This is not just a city it’s a living narrative.
And for five unforgettable days, with a group limited to just five participants, we invite you to step into that story.

Why This Workshop Is Unique

A Deeply Personal Experience
With only five participants, each session is curated with care. You’ll receive one-on-one guidance, daily feedback, and the freedom to explore at your pace with space to reflect, connect, and grow.
The City as Your Canvas
From the maze-like backstreets of Fatih to the vibrant markets of Kadıköy, from ferry rides at golden hour to the sleepy calm of a neighborhood teahouse, Istanbul offers endless visual material. This workshop guides you through its hidden layers and moments that most tourists miss.
Master the Art of Street Photography
Learn how to approach and photograph people respectfully and intuitively. Understand how to use light, movement, emotion, and color to compose compelling visual narratives in unpredictable, dynamic environments.
Portfolio & Visual Story Development
Each participant will receive an in-depth portfolio or project review. We’ll help you identify themes in your work, refine your visual language, and build a consistent and meaningful photographic series even from what you capture during the workshop itself.

Who Is This For?

Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned photographer in need of new inspiration, this workshop is for anyone who wants to dive deeper into the poetry of the street and develop a more intentional practice.

All you need is a camera, an open heart, and the willingness to see and feel more deeply.

What’s Included

All photography tuition and personalized mentorship with F. Dilek Yurdakul

One-on-one shooting sessions and photo walks

In-depth project or portfolio review

Daily group feedback and storytelling discussions

Pre-workshop consultation to understand your interests and creative goals

Not included: travel, accommodation, local transportation, and meals. A curated list of centrally located hotels and authentic places to eat will be shared with participants. Istanbul is full of options and most local costs are quite reasonable.

What You Will Gain

Greater confidence in approaching and photographing people
Tools to read light and anticipate moments on the street
Techniques to create stronger, more intentional compositions
A deeper understanding of visual storytelling
A cohesive body of work that reflects your personal perspective
Lasting connections with fellow creatives in one of the world’s most vibrant cities

From the shimmer of the Bosphorus at sunrise to the shadows in a spice-scented alley, Istanbul invites you to pause, observe, and respond. Let this workshop be your lens not just to see the city, but to feel it.

Limited to 5 participants. Reserve your place and let your journey begin.

Workshop fee 800 Euro