Tales of Istanbul: Holy Prestige

Written By Esa Ylijaasko

During my time living in Istanbul from 2013 to 2018, I frequently embarked on photo walks with my friends Jason Eskenazi and Arjen Zwart. Together, we explored the city’s hidden corners during the golden hour, always on the hunt for the perfect shot and the best Turkish coffee. Eventually, I stumbled upon a spot at the entrance of Eminönü Mosque, where worshippers emerged after prayer—offering ideal lighting for dark background portraits. While I can’t recall exactly how many times I patiently waited for the right moments at this location, I returned repeatedly over several weeks, striving to capture the perfect images for this collage.

Initially, a collage wasn’t how I envisioned executing this artwork, but as the process unfolded, it became the best way to represent that spiritual connection, tradition, and cycle of life.

Holy Prestige is a collage of eight black-and-white photographs capturing conservative women as they pass through a single location while leaving Eminönü Mosque during the golden hour, between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM.

Esa Ylijaasko

Esa Ylijaasko (1989) is a Finnish photographer and visual storyteller known for his compelling documentary-style photography. His work often focuses on social issues, marginalized communities, and personal narratives, capturing the human condition with empathy and depth.

Ylijaasko's work often revolves around the themes of displacement, migration, and the struggles of marginalized communities. He is known for his ability to tell intimate stories through powerful visual narratives, often highlighting the resilience and dignity of his subjects.

Ylijaasko's photography is characterized by its raw and authentic portrayal of subjects. He often uses natural light and close-up shots to create an intimate and immersive experience for viewers. His approach to storytelling is deeply personal, often involving long-term engagement with his subjects. This allows him to capture nuanced and layered narratives that go beyond surface-level observations.

Esa Ylijaasko is a significant figure in contemporary documentary photography, known for his empathetic approach and commitment to shedding light on important social issues. His work continues to inspire and provoke thought, making a substantial impact in the world of visual storytelling.

He’s based in Lapland, Finland.

https://www.ylijaasko.com
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