• Private Experience
• Carbon Neutral

Ready to capture Istanbul's true soul? No matter your experience, this photo tour will teach you the best tips and tricks to capture that picture perfect of Istanbul. Your private host, a former National Geographic editor & photographer, can't wait to share his secrets with you!

Destination

İstanbul, Turkey

Category

Workshops

Duration

3 hours

Transport mode

Public Transport

Available languages

العربية, English, Türkçe

Included

• Entrance tickets
• Private guide

Excluded

• Any transport except public transport is not included.
• Meals

What you can expect

This is the plan

Check out the plan below to see what you'll get up to with your local host. Feel free to personalize this offer with Kemal.

1. Meeting point

   Meet at İstanbul - İstanbul to start your journey

   View on Maps

2. Itinerary

   This is what our experience could look like, but it’s not set in stone! Once you book, you can chat directly with your host to make small tweaks to suit your preferences.

3. Meeting Point

   I can meet you at your accommodation in the city center or at Frej Building

4. Cultural Snap

   Go to Neve Shalom Synagogue and Jewish Museum for some cultural enlightening

5. People Photography

   Discover the meeting point of Istanbul, where locals love to gather

6. Rooftop View

   Enjoy an amazing view of the city from a rooftop cafe

7. Kamondo Stairs

   Learn about angles and get the best pictures of these unique stairs

8. Genoese Inspo

   Capture old beautiful houses built by the Genoese

9. Arab Mosque

   Discover a mosque that used to be a Catholic cathedral

10. Urban Vibes

    Get inspired by the graffitis and urban culture

11. Kurşunlu Han

    Visit a tiny metal workshop located inside a Middle Age inn

12. Istanbul Skyline

    A nice spot to end the tour with the city skyline

13. Make it yours

    Want to tweak the itinerary? Book directly & chat afterwards with your host to adjust highlights, skip stops, or make small changes to fit your preferences.

    Book risk-free: Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

    Need something special? Personalize your experience for more time, alternative locations or a completely tailored plan.

I can personalize this tour for you

• Tell me your preferred date and group size
• Tell me your preferences and wishes so I can customize the tour for you
• Wait for my personal offer in your inbox!

Contact me

Flexible cancellation policy

• Feel confident booking

  Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. Even up to 7 days before your experience, you’ll receive a refund, minus the service fee.

• Change of plans?

  Reschedule your experience to a date and time that works best for you.

• Loved by travelers worldwide

  Simple and flexible – your plans, your way.

Reviews from guests

Karen🇨🇦 Canada

12 October 2024

As a photographer on my first trip to Istanbul I wanted to make sure that I saw the city but also that I had the opportunity to explore areas that tourists wouldn't normally go. I enjoy street photography, but knew I had lots to learn, so I was thrilled to be able to enlist someone as skilled as Kemal as my guide for a half day. He led me up and down the side streets of Galata and gave me fantastic pointers on what watch for, what to do, and how to set myself up for solid street images. I learned lots that I was able to put into use through the remainder of my stay in Istanbul. In this day and age when everyone seems to be about their Instagram shot, it was great to meet someone who cares about old school photography and is willing to share both his technical skills and his knowledge of the city. Beyond that, Kemal was personable and had a good sense of humor. I'd highly recommend him to anyone, including single women who might be nervous about going out alone with their camera. A memorable walk through Galata.

Kelly🇺🇸 United States

20 August 2024

My teenagers are interested in photography, but I don’t really know much about it. We booked this as a way to explore the city more and to hopefully improve our skills, and it did not disappoint. I’m particularly glad we booked it early in our trip so we could keep practicing the skills we learned. If you have even the slightest interest in taking better photos, I couldn’t recommend this more. Kemal checked with us before the tour to see what equipment we had (iPhones) and then he brought the same along for himself so he could constantly be showing us how to improve our pictures with the equipment we have. He did an amazing job explaining basics to us about how to frame shots and some magic moments to look for that really make an interesting photograph. Kemal also showed us how to use numerous features on our phones that I had either never really explored or never knew existed. He took us down fascinating streets in Istanbul that we never would have known about on our own, even though they were just a street or two away from our hotel. My teenagers (and myself and my husband) loved it and now we all keep talking about things we see on the street that would make great photos. I, personally, feel like I’m seeing details around me that I wouldn’t have noticed before which is making me feel more immersed in my vacation.This made the rest of our trip better

7t27d8c92m🇳🇱 Netherlands

1 September 2022

Fun walk around Istanbul and lots of practical photography tips Great tour

Tonia🇺🇸 United States

8 September 2021

I actually did two photography tours with Kemal, and I loved them both. Kemal has connections and you may get lucky and see, experience, and take pictures of some workshops that are very rare, and near extinct on this tour, I was given some choices of what I would like to see. We went to the Grand Bazaar, Kemal knows and works with a lot of different shops, so he knows where to go and can help you experience things that most tourist will never see, like the location that provides tea to the shops, a jewelry repair shop, and multiple others. The we went to a place that processes silk from cocoons for Turkish rugs. This is a skill that few people even know anymore. We were able to see and photograph the whole process, and we even got to see a master silk weaver tying silk knots for a rug. Then we went to a place that was smelting bronze. That is also something that is quite rare, and extremely interesting to see and photograph. The melting point of the metal is over a thousand degrees, and wow, what a process to witness and capture on film. Kemal was so enjoyable, and such a good teacher. I am a newish photography hobbyists, and this workshop helped take me to the next level. Kemal was able to help with all of my camera questions, and explain a lot about what is needed to take a good picture. Every picture that he took was amazing, and he will help you capture your own amazing images. Best money ever spent trying to upgrade my photography skills.Best way to take pictures with unique tour possibilities

Wasim 🇹🇷 Turkey

17 February 2021

I had a very nice day with Kemal yesterday. Kemal is a really amazing teacher and was also very attentive and helpful. He made me step out of my comfort zone and pushed me and I felt I needed that. I highly recommend going on a photography tour it’s more like a master class. I hope to go on another tour later in the future. A great experience

Ron🇺🇸 United States

5 October 2019

This was combined with a night shoot. Long day and action filled. Kemal is very professional and a fun person to travel with. Saw a lot of sights that were unique because of his local friends. The best I have been with... tour guide and top level photographer. Full day of activity and sights

Ron🇺🇸 United States

5 October 2019

Kemal is wonderful, he is a solid professional photographer. I am a good photographer, but he taught me a lot. I write travel articles for a local magazine in Naples, FL and Kemal is a walking encyclopedia of history. Fun person too!See behind the scenes

Ervinna🇸🇬 Singapore

1 October 2019

Prior to the photography session with Kemal, I joined hunting photography trips with my Indonesian group of friends, but Kemal opened a totally new perspective for me. I learned a lot from him. The experience and the lesson i got, was totally worth it. Kemal was a great teacher and also a sweet kind-hearted new friend i found in Instanbul. Thank you a lot, Kemal. Keep in touch ! Superb experience in Instanbul !!!

Dave🇪🇸 Spain

3 August 2019

I was a -10 Photgrapher but I think Kemal managed to get me up to a 0.5 in just 3 hours. He really knows his stuff and was generous with his time and knowledge although I'm probably the worst student he has ever encountered... I'm just as shy behind the camera as I am in front of it... But thanks to Kemal I feel I at least have a better idea of the concept of Photgraphy and managed to take a few decent photographs yesterdayFoto hodja

brenton🇦🇺 Australia

24 June 2019

You won’t regret this!!!Amazing!!!

Teresa🇨🇭 Switzerland

5 June 2019

I spend very interesting hours with Kemal and enjoyed the tour a lot. Although i usually shoot photograph in auto mode and I`m really technically untalented Kemal was able to teach me the basics of photography. So on the end we have visit some interesting places and I have taken very nice pictures. I would recomend this tour to anyone, even those who like me is not a "professional photographer"

Pam🇬🇧 United Kingdom

19 March 2019

We had a wonderful experience with Kemal. Right from the first point of contact Kemal was friendly, imformative ,knowledgeable and very communicative and responsive to queries . We felt comfortable on first meeting him and we were so glad we booked this tour . His insider knowledge took us off the beaten track for a different, more personalised tour . Kemal was keen to help us improve our photography and spent time, pointing out unusual angles, things going on around us and spotting opportunities we may have otherwise missed . I feel much more comfotable with my camera and he got me out of my comfort zone and onto Manual mode. Skill for life ! Loved every moment of this experience. I can recommend him for sure . Thanks a million Kemal .. you make me want to return to Istanbul. First Class

Shelly🇺🇸 United States

30 September 2018

Kemal met me at 5:30am to make sure we would make it to a great spot to catch the sunrise over the Bosphorus. Then he took me to some great spots along the shore that I had not seen before. Before I arrived Kemal gave me advice on what gear to bring, asked what I was looking for and was flexible on timing and places. We finished up the tour at a small local market near the airport. Kemal has a great way with people and really helps you figure out how to interact and what spots are great for photos. I highly recommend his tour!Sunrise tour in Istanbul

Aimee

12 July 2018

Spent two wonderful days with Kemal exploring parts of Istanbul which were definitely off the beaten track.I contacted him via what’s app and e mail and from day one he was very prompt and professional about the whole thing.He immediately understood what I wanted out of this tour.Even though when I arrived the weather was not what I was expecting but Kemal made sure that I still had an amazing time and he took me to places where I think I achieved some great shots. He was very easy going and very helpful when he spotted that I could get a better shot in a certain manner he pointed it out.He was generous with his knowledge.One thing which I really liked was that even though he knew that from certain spots due to weather conditions I would not get the shots I would like he still accommodated them in our route and showed me in case I wanted to visit them later. Kemal really knows his city the people and he has a very easy manner about him.I would recommend this tour irrespective of you being a photographer or not !! Thanks Kemal it was amazing spending time with you!National Geographic Photographer Workshop

john

12 July 2018

Let me start by saying it was worth every penny! We communicated via email prior and he was very clear in regard to what he offered - just what I was hoping for. He met me where I was staying and we began by reviewing basic camera functions to ensure I was up to speed. He also covered exposure compensation! He spent time talking about photographic theory throughout the day. He took me to craftsmen in the Grand Bazar that were way off the beaten path. There I met some wonderful people and took some amazing images!! The goldsmiths were incredible. We worked on reflections, panning and settings. He shot with me and wanted to see what I was capturing - offering constructive criticism as needed in a encouraging way. He was very patient and answered all of my questions in a direct manner often covering complex ideas in a easy to understand fashion. The people that he introduced me to, were pleasant and kind. The children in the park were great and the neighborhoods were even better. He timed the ferries to ensure were we on the correct one to capture the sunset over the harbor and Mosques. To cap it off, we captured the Maidens Tower at night and worked on the basics of flash. Would I do this again? In a heart beat!National Geographic Photographer Workshop

Amelia

9 July 2018

Perfect mix of discovering Istanbul and improving your photography! I've done a few photography tours in the past where I left feeling like I didn't learn much. This was different. Kemal was very accommodating and easy to work with, fitting me in at the last minute for a private tour and meeting me in a location convenient to where I was staying. He was able to hone in on specific aspects that I needed to work on in my photography and I felt like I left the tour knowing what I need to work on and with new tools in my "belt" to do so. Kemal gives you just the right amount of direction and space to let you try out new things and be creative, while keeping a watchful eye and giving needed advice. I was also able to see parts of Istanbul, even in the center of the touristy areas, that were still off the beaten path and that I wouldn't have been able to find on my own. In short, well worth the money and has definitely made a substantial difference in how I go about my photography. Recommended for anyone who wants to improve their photography and see some new sides of Istanbul! National Geographic Photographer Workshop

Alex

2 July 2018

A great experience! I was on a business trip and had booked tour with Kemal on several days for a few hours. He made time despite his busy schedule, even picking me up at 5 am one morning. I was amazed to see his knowledge of cameras and lenses belonging to different brands. He cleared several of my doubts in photography on my Nikon equipment. We had discussions about techniques, composition and post processing. Other than being an excellent photographer and guide, I would always trust Kemal for his restaurant recommendations. He knows Istanbul in and out, an added advantage. Thanks Kemal!National Geographic Photographer Workshop

k8yrfnrn24

31 August 2024

Danke für die professionelle Führung mit extrem viel Wissen und Geheimtiips😍🤗Familienstadtführung

Mark🇺🇸 United States

13 November 2023

Kemal was an amazing guide. Not only did he provide hands on photography training that will forever change how we take pictures, but the setting he chose allowed us to see parts of London we would never have known about. Our only regret is we didn’t book Kemal earlier in our trip so we could apply our new skills and training for all of our London photos. Hands down one of the best experiences we have had while visiting a new city. Thanks Kemal!!Beyond Expectations

Vic🇦🇺 Australia

3 July 2023

If you want your photos and technique critiqued and improved, then this is the tour to go on. I thought I had a good eye for photos, but as a professional, Kemal is on another level. He pointed out people and scenes that I'd totally missed. He also provided tips on how to take street photos of people, what backgrounds looked good, how to set up your photo and a raft of other suggestions - he's very generous with his knowledge and experience (I'm not telling, you'll have to find out for yourself!). He provides a running commentary on the local history of the areas you visit, which adds a bit of background to what you're looking at. He also takes advantage of situations that arise, like the lady that wanted her photo taken that he turned into a model photo shoot for the two of us and photographing some waiters at an outdoor restaurant that turned into a free afternoon tea with the waiters and two local cops. He has a good sense of humor and we had a great and very productive afternoon. Informative, productive and entertaining

Anne🇩🇪 Germany

15 May 2023

We had a great tour with Kemal. He made it very interesting for both - adults & kids (15, 13 and 8). He also showed us spots for great photos and told us a lot about the history. He very nicely engaged with the kids. We all loved the tour. Had a great tour with Kemal

Martina 🇩🇪 Germany

6 November 2022

Es war ein tolles Erlebnis. Wir haben viel über Street Art und das East End gelernt.

Patrick🇺🇸 United States

29 July 2022

Although I've been taking photos for awhile, Kemal started by pointing out some very simple ways for me to improve my shots. The rest of the time was then spent wandering though delightful Camden, capturing shots of many intriguing characters, and learning more advanced photography concepts. Kemal would explain a concept in detail, walk thru it in a friendly hands-on manner, and then help me practice and work towards mastering it. I came away from the session with Kemal, with a much deeper understanding of photography and many amazing shots! Thank you Kemal!Learned the basics and much more!

Laurie🇺🇸 United States

30 May 2022

Kemal was a knowledgable, friendly, passionate, and intriguing guide during our tour of Westminster. Our family imcluded one wheelchair user and two children (9, 13). Kemal taught us a great deal and adapted to meet the needs of 4 eager, but jet lagged students. He sent me educational material to supplement what he taught us and made himself available after the tour for any questions I may have after reading the material he provided. We spoke with Kemal and chose to customize our tour to include photos of our family. We are thrilled with their quality and they are my favorite souviners of the trip. We learned and saw so much in our few short hours with Kemal. The next time we are in London we will definitely take another tour with him. Fantastic Experience!

Tonia🇺🇸 United States

8 September 2021

I'm just going to say that Kemel is a photography God. The man can't take a bad picture. This was definitely an experience like no other. After the hustle and bustle of Istanbul, it was so nice to get out of town into some small villages by the Black Sea. Kemal will take you places that no other tourists will get to see or experience. Once you get to the village get ready to watch Kemal in action as he chats withe the locals and makes new friends wherever he goes. Not only will you get a unique prospective and views like no other, Kemal is so good at what he does as a photographer. You are sure to leave with tips on how to make your pictures better. Kemal is also very helpful with any help you might need getting to know your camera, or helping with the basics Iso, shutter speed and apeture. I myself am a beginning hobby photographer, and I walked away with so many tools and so much wisdom of what makes a good picture. I also am a lot braver taking photos on the street of people and situations that I normaly would just pass up. I would have to say that anyone who wants a unique photo experience will not be disappointed, Kemal really delivers and he is so much fun to be around as well.Best money ever spent

Lauren🇺🇸 United States

15 February 2021

We had an awesome class with Kemal today. His crash course for beginners was educational, engaging, and full of awesome illustrated analogies and real life examples of the lesson topics. Kemal customized our experience across two different skill levels and shared stories from his 28 years of experience. Can’t recommend him highly enough! Awesome Beginner Photo Class

Karin🇳🇦 Namibia

19 February 2020

We went on this magnificent tour with Kemel. My friend and I are both amateur photographers. We learned a huge amount from Kemel. His knowledge of photography is superb. He knows the different cameras extremely well and could assist us with all our questions. The fishing villages and castle ruins were excellent locations. I will highly recommend this tour with Kemel. He is very kind and has a good sense of humor.Magnificent photography tour