The Souq of Aleppo Photo

Photographer’s Note

One of my favourite places to explore in Syria was the magical souq of Aleppo.

The labyrinthine covered souk of Aleppo is covered by stone archways for 20 miles, making this the longest souk in the Middle East. Since the Ottoman years, tiny Suzuki trucks have replaced the tracks of camels through the tiny market alleys, but the din of braying donkeys and shouting traders is timeless in Aleppo.

Donkeys and people stream along the crowded streets, and western suited businessmen rub shoulders with bedouins capped in kaffiyas. Pomegranates, camel humps and local goods sit alongside western tinned goods as a sign of changing times.

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Critiques | Translate

diafani (694) 2009-01-09 14:22

What a wonderfully evocative image. Gives us a bit of the feel of the ancient city and marketplace.

SCidER (386) 2009-01-09 14:35

WOW amazing shot! amazing POV ... great DOF .. love the mood colours and the sharpness.. very atmospheric! well done! :D

adores (15769) 2009-01-09 15:30

Hi Julian!
You captured a good daily scene but those rays of light really make the difference here. I like the composition and the movement of the man pulling the goods.

cak (3902) 2009-01-09 18:08

light colons is perfect in the dark street.thank u

wolf38 (13085) 2009-01-09 22:57

Hello Julian. A photo worth seeing. Outstanding composes. Everything is at the ideal place. Wonderful light. Photographically skillfully realizes. Best regards, Wolfgang.

Jeppo (12114) 2009-01-10 5:30

ciao Julian,

I am getting more and more curious about Syria.
I think you caught the very essence of this souk. the people with the chart...the shadows..the pouring light from above
a pleasant composition
tfs
silvio

mikele_pl (2304) 2009-02-26 16:22

Hi Julian,

another superb image, and it shows the power of Olympus optics. 11-22 works well here. Amazing composition, great mood, excellent details.

greetings

michal