Ready to get creative? Be part of a fun jewelry workshop taught by a friendly local “usta”. Step into his studio for a perfect hands-on experience that will teach you how to create and design your own accessories through different techniques.
Go off the beaten path on a journey full of hidden gems! Escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and discover tranquil green spaces, local neighborhoods with a lively atmosphere, and a bazaar filled with interesting handicrafts, Turkish products, and textiles.
More of Istanbul: Chora Museum, Tekfur Palace, Balat & Fener
301 reviews
5 hours | day trips | Istanbul
Discover the first steps of Christianity in the mosaics and frescoes of the Chora Mosque. Visit the last palace of the Byzantine. Get ready to explore the cultural tapestry of old Istanbul's Muslim, Armenian, Jewish, and Greek Orthodox neighborhoods.
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!
Get in the rhythm of Istanbul's street markets and discover the unknown sites and hidden gems. Immerse in the streets where the locals love to shop, taste delicious Turkish food and discover the most authentic spots in town while meeting the lovely locals in person!
We booked Kemal when we were home in New Zealand, having reviewed other reviews about Kemal and having checked out his photography online and in instagram.
This man is so modest about his accomplishments- everything online is understated. He has a great ability to engage with locals in Turkey in such a warm and genuine manner- people seem to do anything for him, allow him places and are happy for him/us to photograph them, showing their story and humanity. He has travelled to and knows so many countries- it’s not for nothing he was a staff photographer ( and executive editor) for National Geographic for many years. I don’t think we could ask him anything about Istanbul and the surrounding area ( we did two of his tours) which he didn’t know. He organised a car, and made recommendations for meals/ drinks (which were spot on- and we had as part of the tours). Not only that, he is very flexible to fit in with exactly what you want- just guiding, or going to places specifically for photographic opportunities.
He met us at our hotel- really takes away any hassle- and you really do get to see a lot more than if left to your own devices. He also has a “voice map” guided out of the Galata area of Istanbul- we didn’t know about that- suggest checking it out. We weren’t sure if Kemal was the same person as “Kemal Nuraydin” in instagram- he is. He is the same Kemal in “Terra Photos tours” ( website and instagram) as well. Also, to remove any potential confusion, he actually lives in London, doing the same work there, but has friends and family in Istanbul, so is always happy to fly over to do your guiding or tour. Sounds like we are advertising him, which we are- only because we think he is so good at what he does. Thanks Kemal! Colin Brown and Ruth Bijl , Auckland, New Zealand
Photography trip to Black Sea fishing villages
Alex
About local
22 June 2025
Total cultural immersion
A hugely rewarding afternoon spent with Mine in Fener, Istanbul. Her knowledge is encyclopedic and brought to life through lived experience and friendships across many cultures. I look forward to discovering more of Istanbul with her in the future.
Istanbul Multicultural Charms: Fener & Balat Tour
Hector
About local
Galata with Kemal
Had a fantastic time in the Galata area of Istanbul with Kemal. Local knowledge is a great thing. For someone trying to remember how to find their way around a camera again, it was a fantastic learning experience. I would thoroughly recommend Kemal's tour if you are lucky enough to find him available. He is patient, seeks out great photo opportunities, and willing acomplicies, to help 'get that shot'. We also learned a few tips and tricks to make our phone mobile photography better.
An all round great time with an all round great guy! şerefe Kemal.
National Geographic Photographer Workshop
Danielle
About local
Quality
Diana was a fabulous guide. The whole tour was all about quality. Quality goods, quality vendors and a very knowledgeable quality guide in Diana. I would highly recommend Diana as she made a potential chaotic day into an easy relaxing enjoyable day!!!
