The Colorful Side of Istanbul

Photographic representation of Istanbul has always been stereotypical - towering mosques, ornate palaces, old streets, markets and seagulls over the Bosphorus. No doubt, the Ottoman empire left an indelible impression on the city’s skyline with its majestic architecture, but there is a side of Istanbul - the modern side - that people rarely see. 32-year old architect and photographer Yener Torun has been documenting this unknown dimension of this famous city through his photographs that he shares on Instagram.

“My primary motive was to document a different, less-known part of Istanbul to escape from the one dimensional and orientalist perception. And I started looking for strong lines, vibrant colors and geometric patterns. I believe, increasing the variety of aspects provides a better understanding of the city, both for the viewers and me,” Yener Torun told Washington Post. “Even long-term residents can’t believe these pictures were taken in the city they live in,” he added.

To capture the vibrant colors, Torun usually visit industrial areas and developing urban neighborhoods of the city where he finds the modern lines, colors and geometry he’s looking for. Unfortunately they aren’t easy to find as the majority of the new buildings are grey and dull. “So I spend most of my spare time finding them – it’s like a treasure hunt,” he said.