First and Maybe Last Visit to India?

[u/kobeburner]

I’ve only visited 18 countries and even though the historical buildings, architecture, and cuisine were incredible, I have little desire to return to India.

As a fairly tall Black American male I stood out among everyone. I was grabbed often, all by men, stared at for an ungodly length of time, and just generally felt overwhelmed and uncomfortable there. The staring is next level. It’s not a glance. It’s a purposeful observation that continues indefinitely. At one point a man was looking at me from a few feet away. I moved to block his view then he moved to get closer to me to continue the gawking.

The poverty is disturbing and the absurd amount of garbage is nightmare fuel for environmentalists. Locals don’t seem to care much about the cleanliness in the urban areas. Watched several people willingly throw trash into the street from apartments and train cars. Why do they do this?

On the other hand, the Taj Mahal is incredible. Easily the most fascinating part of our trip. We’ve been to 6 new world wonders, 7 if we include the Pyramids of Giza, and the TM is in my top 2 with Petra being the best.

Walking through the gate and seeing the mausoleum in the background bathing in the morning light was like stepping into a fairy tale land. We loved it so much, we returned for a second day. There are rooftop bars and restaurants too with incredible views and inexpensive food and booze.

My suggestion visiting India would be to ensure everything is private. Transportation, guides, etc. The logistics can be a pain so the peace of mind of having everything taken care of for you is worth the cost imo.

[u/simeonce]

Can anyone explain how to take these photos (like the Taj Mahal ones), is it something possible with a decent phone?

[u/kobeburner → u/simeonce]

I shot these on a full frame mirrorless camera. I use a Sony a7iv with a 70-200mm gm ii lens. I should have brought a 16-35mm too but such is life. The 4th image is the only one from my iPhone. You may be able to get similar shots with other non-Apple mobile products.

I am no pro photographer but my friend group and acquaintances consistently tell me I take good photos. I don’t believe I do though but it’s nice to hear the positive feedback.

Anyway, my general rule of thumb (camera phone or professional device) is to shoot through things, and have a foreground, middle ground, and background element to generate a unique composition. Leading lines and bokeh in some circumstances are great as well.

Find your subject whatever it may be, isolate it, look for contrasting light, and shoot. Practice consistently, shoot at dawn and dusk for ideal lighting conditions, and get creative.

Good luck.

[u/kittykat4289 → u/kobeburner]

Listen to your friends. ❤️

[u/kobeburner → u/kittykat4289]

❤️🙏🏽 this made my day, thank you 🥹.

[u/viridescent-bosky → u/kobeburner]

I’m just a random person on the internet. I wouldn’t lie to you. You have a real talent!

[u/blackspandexbiker → u/kobeburner]

your pics are great. pls post them on Reddit. i wish you had a better time in India. someday i hope you return and have a better experience