My First Days of Photography in Old Jerusalem - Israel
My first days of Photography in Old Jerusalem were an absolute dream. As soon as we arrived, I could feel the jet lag at its peak, causing me to wake up at 3:00 in the morning. At first, I was a little disappointed to be awake so early, but as a photographer, it ended up being a blessing in disguise. The streets were completely empty at that time of day, giving me the perfect opportunity to wander around photographing the area.
The streets of Old Jerusalem are winding and confusing, with corridors and pathways branching off in every direction. It’s easy to get lost in the maze of markets, side streets, and rooftops, but I’ve found that getting lost is half the fun. I loved grabbing my camera and simply wandering for hours, taking in the sights and sounds of this amazing city.
One of the things I loved most about Old Jerusalem was the ancient stone streets and buildings. It was a photographer’s paradise, with so many interesting and unique subjects to capture. I could easily spend weeks here, exploring every nook and cranny and trying to capture the perfect shot.
The streets of Old Jerusalem were a cacophony of sights, sounds, and smells. Surrounded by Jewish and Arab people the sounds Hebrew and Arabic rang through the air, I then truly felt like I was on the other side of the world. As I walked through the winding streets, I was struck by the sense of community and connection that seemed to radiate from every corner, while at the same time a sense of unfortunate division and tension lingered around.
As this was in fact my first days of photography in Old Jerusalem, it was a amazing to watch the locals going about their daily lives, walking to and from prayer with a sense of purpose and devotion. The streets were filled with Jewish men and women dressed in their traditional clothing, their heads covered with kippahs or scarves. I could feel the energy and spirituality of the place, even though I didn’t understand the language.
One thing I did not know before traveling to Old Jerusalem was the ability to travel from rooftop to rooftop. As a photographer, this was a goldmine of information and It was an exhilarating and unforgettable experience. As I made my way through the narrow, winding streets on day one, I had no idea that I would be able to travel around the city in this way. The ancient city seemed to come alive as I climbed up to the rooftop and gazed out at the maze of buildings stretching out before me.
As I traveled the rooftops, camera in hand, it felt like I was in a real life game of Assassin’s Creed. The paths were narrow and precarious, and I had to be careful not to lose my footing as I made my way from one building to the next.
But despite the challenges, the sense of freedom and adventure I felt as I moved through the city was unparalleled. I felt like I was truly experiencing the city in a way that most tourists never get to. The views from the rooftop were breathtaking, and I felt like I was truly getting a glimpse into the heart of old Jerusalem. It was a truly unforgettable experience.
In conclusion, traveling to old Jerusalem is an incredible and unforgettable experience. The rich history, culture, and traditions of this ancient city are truly unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else in the world. If you’re planning a trip, or this is also your first days of photography in Old Jerusalem, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
Stay in an air BnB within the old city walls. This is where you’ll find the most vibrant and authentic parts of the city, and it’s where you’ll get a true sense of what it was like to live in Jerusalem hundreds of years ago.
It’s okay to say no to shopkeepers. The markets in old Jerusalem are full of vendors trying to sell you everything from souvenirs to spices, and it can be overwhelming. Don’t feel like you have to buy something from every single person who approaches you. It’s perfectly okay to politely say no and move on.
Pack your camera gear light and bring good shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking in old Jerusalem, and you don’t want to weigh yourself down with too much gear. Bring your essentials and leave the rest behind. Here is a list of the gear I took– Canon R5 / 24-105mm Lens / 16-35mm Lens / Travel Tripod / Camera Bag
Make sure your Google Maps works. The streets of old Jerusalem can be confusing, and it’s easy to get lost. Having a reliable map on your phone can be a lifesaver.
If you see a staircase leading to a rooftop, go for it! One of the most unique and enjoyable experiences in old Jerusalem is exploring the rooftop paths that crisscross the city. Just be careful and watch your step.
Overall, old Jerusalem is a city full of surprises and wonders. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves to explore new places, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained and captivated in this incredible city. So, make sure to add it to your travel bucket list and experience all that it has to offer. If you found this blog informative, interesting or helpful with your future travels, leave a comment below!
