Nostalgic Black and White Photography — Portugal
Traveling back in time
Some like it some don’t. Black and white photography. It never used to be part of my picture taking but within the last year, I somehow found interest in it. It reminds me of the past and maybe even of times long before I was born.
But monochrome photography is more than just taking pictures like back in the days. Removing the colors of a scene is highlighting the shapes and contrasts of buildings, a landscape, or whatever it is you have in front of your lens.
Just recently I was wandering through the streets of the Portuguese city of Évora. I was looking down narrow alleyways seeing buildings that have stood there for hundreds of years.
It made me slow down and just take in the vibes of the city. Tourists were walking through the streets. Some faster, some slower. Locals were on their way to have a lunch break at one of many quaint cafes.
Meanwhile, I was hunting for some spectacular chapels and churches. From any place in town, you can see at least one beautiful-looking castle-like cathedral.
In fact, the largest cathedral in Portugal is to be found right here — in Évora. Located on top of the hill, the building is at the highest point of the surroundings and offers you spectacular views of the city and the landscape surrounding it.
Stairs and tiny roads are leading up the hill through town. Cobblestones make for an old-fashioned flair.
I ventured into one and the other chapel and also got to see an expedition of nativity scenes. Artists took it onto themselves to display the religious scene in the most diverse ways. From all different kinds of materials, they build the scene in various sizes.
Looking up at the buildings in town, I could see the love for detail the architects of these buildings had creating them.
Évora might not be the most vibrant of the Portuguese cities but with a bit of wandering and open eyes, you’ll find very original and traditional cafes, bars, and pubs.
Last but not least I’m sharing with you this photograph of an owl. Representing wisdom and wise knowledge, these birds are my mom’s favorite and I’ve brought her souvenir owls from all around the world.
From Évora she’s getting this photograph instead. An owl overlooking the center of town.
“Great photography is about depth of feeling, not depth of field.” — Peter Adams
More photo essays with black and white photography:
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