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♡ Casablanca 2019



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For image licensing or print enquiries, please contact me at: karim.achalhi@gmail.com
For other pictures, backstage and updates..., check out my account ...
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For image licensing or print enquiries, please contact me at: karim.achalhi@gmail.com
For other pictures, backstage and updates..., check out my account :
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Awards

Zenith Award
Hidden Gem Award
Top Shot Award 21
Spring 21 Award
9Teen Award
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Absolute Masterpiece
kam_eraa barryabraham christopherrausch jenmandel Joseajim92 ashleejoannemackereth mballard +4
Superb Composition
Kk_may305 jonhoff Rhianne nataliacalle johnboyd liamsullivan ritabrata98 +3
Outstanding Creativity
Trevolution rickpetersen jhartrm250 michbullaert Darkside simonwilliams_8608 briannalgd +3
Top Choice
dffused lenarddaveenfectana vikiharkin stevensmith_3034 aeronpaoloatangan Kshear1017
Peer Award
athinagarganouraki bronxie nikosladic jeanmichelpassionphoto

Top Ranks

Faces Of The World Photo ContestTop 10 rank
Faces Of The World Photo ContestTop 10 rank week 1
Enchanting Portraits Photo ContestTop 20 rank
photographyawards2020Top 30 rank week 2
photographyawards2020Top 10 rank week 1
City Life Photo Contest JampressTop 20 rank
Capture Windows Photo ContestTop 30 rank
Capture Windows Photo ContestTop 30 rank week 1
Image Of The Month Photo Contest Vol 52Top 10 rank
Image Of The Month Photo Contest Vol 52Top 10 rank week 2
Image Of The Month Photo Contest Vol 52Top 10 rank week 1

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Behind The Lens

Location

This photo was taken at an old coffee shop named MILANO in the downtown area while we were having breakfast.

Time

On the morning of December 1st, 2019, at 11 am, following our meeting near my hotel, we decided to grab breakfast. I was drawn to her appearance and admired her attire, as always. As we passed by the coffee shop, an idea formed in my mind: the glass could represent dual worlds, inside and outside, with the capacity to reflect and obscure details, potentially yielding an artistic photograph. We sat down, placed our order, and without speaking a word, I began capturing the scene with my camera, resulting in the image you see.

Lighting

Photography revolves around the presence of light; without it, capturing images would be impossible. On a rainy day, with a gentle drizzle, I, as a photographer, typically avoid shooting in such subdued lighting as it tends to render my photos dull and gray, evoking feelings of sadness and depression as per color psychology. Instead, I diverted my attention to her clothing colors and the interplay of light and shadow through the glass, deliberately accentuating the contrast to mitigate the dreary atmosphere. This strategic approach successfully obscured the gray tones, resulting in a more vibrant and compelling image.

Equipment

This was shot on a Sony 7R II, with Carl Zeiss 55mm F1.8. No other equipment was involved. I never used a flash during all my life. Always natural light even at night.

Inspiration

The inspiration behind capturing this photo stemmed from a deep sense of passion and love. It was a moment where the intensity of emotions fueled the desire to immortalize it through the lens. In the intertwining of passion and love, I found the essence of what made the moment worth preserving for eternity. It became a testament to the profound connection and emotions shared, transcending mere visual representation. In essence, passion and love served as the driving force behind capturing this poignant moment.

Editing

I dedicated nine years to photography, with four focused on documentary and street photography. Initially drawn to vibrant imagery, my style evolved towards a more journalistic approach aimed at portraying reality authentically. While some may have appreciated my vibrant style, I personally found it somewhat unnatural. Nevertheless, my unique approach garnered attention and led to collaborations. Experience taught me to anticipate nuances such as light, symmetry, focus, and composition, crucial in conveying a message. In this image, I utilized subtle dodging and burning techniques for enhancement.

In my camera bag

This is the question that every novice photographer eagerly seeks an answer to. Before delving into photography, I scoured every corner for the best equipment, from tripods to cameras, only to find them exorbitantly priced. Eventually, I began my journey with a Canon 550D and a standard 18-55mm lens, which I used to capture iconic images of my city, Casablanca. Over time, I gradually upgraded my gear, transitioning from the 550D to the 7D, 6D, and Mark III, before switching brands to Nikon. I explored a wide range of focal lengths, from a fisheye 8mm to the Sigma 150-600mm, realizing that creativity and attentiveness trump the gear you use. Currently, my bag typically contains a Sony 7R II and two lenses: the Carl Zeiss 16-35mm F4 and the Carl Zeiss 55mm F1.8. Despite owning a Sony 70-200 F2.8 G Master for two years, I've rarely used it, as I prefer natural light and avoid artificial illumination, hence never utilizing a flash.

Feedback

Absorb fundamental principles, and don't shy away from trial and error, especially since digital experimentation incurs no expense. Unleash your creativity and cultivate a distinct style of your own. Ultimately, recognize that your most essential tool is whatever you wield in your hands.

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