It’s not everyones cup of tea, but I like to sometimes play with black and white. After yet another weekend of exploring Old Dehli I got back home and downloaded the pictures. I was playing around a bit in photoshop and liked the style created in converting to Black and White and then overexposing followed by crushing the blacks. For a number of the pictures I then added some noise (grain) to the picture for that little something different. For me the textures, energy, noise, energy and feel of Old Dehli is quite effectively portrayed in this very simple post- processing.
What do you think?
A typical street-scene frozen in time.Some cycle and some walk…What I love about this scene is the wonderful mixture of subjects. It all comes together to show how mixed India is and the often bizarre situations you can find yourself in. The young man sitting on the sidewalk is selling lemons to be used for refreshing nimbu paani (lemon-water). A number of rickshaws peddle past allowing you to get from A to B for only a few rupees. The western influenced MacDonald’s is open for business with an advert for the latest Bollywood movie above.With fig trees growing out the top, and the entire side plastered with air-conditioning units, I just had to photograph this building.A street dog takes a rest in the shade as the mid day sun beats down.With lunch time approaching preparations were on the go. Here you can see a vendor’s collection of pots and pans necessary to cook a delicious meal.The street food of Old Delhi may not be to my pallet, but it looks and smells tantalising.Photography wise, a walk down the back streets often results in unexpected joys. Here some washing dries out on the line.Entire roads and markets are dedicated to the selling of books. With a little bit of searching you can uncover some wonderful works from all over the world.You can buy anything in these bustling markets.This locksmith very skilfully uses a series of files to make keys. I sat and watched him for a while in total admiration.A local lady on her way to market.Every year on Independence Day, the Red Fort plays host to great celebrations. The Prime Minister will address the nation about his vision for the country for the coming year. Prior to this he raises the flag at this exact spot. Resided in by Mogul Emperors for nearly 200 years, the Red Fort is one of Delhi’s most iconic monuments.The inner gates to the Lal Qila citadel. Traditionally musicians would be placed here to welcome the emperors arrival from, or advance to, a campaign.Divan-e-Aam the hall of public audience where the court met for every day matters.
Do you think the style works in capturing some of the feeling of a city like Old Delhi? It certainly makes a change! Whether you are looking to photograph it, or just soak it all in, one thing is for sureb&a visit to India can only be enriched by taking a walk around Old Delhi!
nice snaps!! Hope u enjoyed.
very interesting and nice your black and white photos of indian streets Mr bannister..
Thank you very much. Im glad you enjoyed them. I find black and white often works really well for street scenes.