Ozgur Aydogdu 1/11/20 Ozgur Aydogdu 1/11/20

Turning off the Conscious Mind

This post is all about my latest trip to Turkey, quite a personal one. A lot of family moments and a glimpse of my yet-to-be-named, ongoing photography series portraying Turkish Artists in their studios…

Being far away from home makes me think a lot about how I can connect with the life I left behind, especially from a photography standpoint. In a country polarized to its core, losing my sense of belonging day after day, I choose to hold onto the people I love, memories, and the small community I was raised in, transforming them into silver crystals. This is my way out..

All photos are Tri-X at 800 developed in XTOL 1:1, 10:30mins at 21°C, shot mostly with Leica M6 and the square ones with Rolleiflex 2.8F

Home studio of long time family friend, artist Yunus Tonkuş — Home studio of long time family friend, artist *Yunus Tonkuş*

Working on a statue of Oğuz Aral, a legendary Turkish cartoonist

The series will be displayed on the streets of Kadıköy, the liberated area of today’s İstanbul — The series will be displayed on the streets of Kadıköy, the *liberated area* of today’s İstanbul

Final touches on Avanak Avni, Aral’s most remarkable cartoon character — Final touches on *Avanak Avni*, Aral’s most remarkable cartoon character

Happy times when I had no idea my Rollei had a misaligned focusing screen

I admire how he starts giggling two minutes after he wakes up

When the cab driver rejects to take you to Galata

The whole city turned into a massive construction site

Nothing beats the joy of nerdy gear talk with this man

Off to Eskisehir, long awaited meet up with my sister

Picking up exactly from where they left off, Mustafa Abi & Rüzgar

Heirloom t-shirt that passed down generations of our family travelling all around the world, and now it’s coming home — Heirloom t-shirt that passed down generations of our family travelling all around the world, and now *it’s coming home*

When you realize you locked yourself out

Stopped by at Sivrihisar for visiting Metin Yurdanur‘s open-air sculpture museum set on the foothills of the rocky mountains.

Some familiar faces welcome us. Remembering Ali Dinçer.

For some reason, I always have a sympathy for artists who refuse to move to İstanbul

Fooling around with dad at Erimtan Museum. Can you spot him?

Moments like this make me question many decisions in my life

The gang is ready for the aspirin bubbles experiment

Failed.. Looks like it’s another Youtube clickbait video they’ve been watching

Good to see neighbors are doing well, Egemen & Mocha

The first episode of the series could not be complete without my father, of course.

We decided to go for a shoot focusing more on the performance and creative process

My goal was to capture some moments when he’s really in the flow — My goal was to capture some moments when he’s really in the *flow*

It’s an essential part of his creative process

A highly focused mental state of being completely present and fully immersed in a task

We picked this one for the press release of his upcoming exhibition

Which turned into diaries over the years

The most photogenic nephew you could have. Never fails me, since the very first portrait I took of him

Same spot, same camera, a very different me from 9 years ago

And the moment of the whole trip for me — And *the moment* of the whole trip for me

January 2020, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 3/30/19 Ozgur Aydogdu 3/30/19

Eh, It’s a Living..

Some photos from late 2017 and early 2018, mostly street captures from my weekend walks in the city…

Some photos from late 2017 and early 2018, mostly street captures from my weekend walks in the city. All photos are Tri-X mostly shot at 800, developed in XTOL 1:1, 10:30mins at 21°C, Leica M6 and 35mm Summicron ASPH.

Featured him twice in this post. shot a couple months apart

I like overcast weather better than sunny days. Occlusion shadows look super cool in black and white

Taking halloween decorations to a new level

When you have to dine outside — When you *have to* dine outside

Enjoying the Portrait Gallery from kids’ point of view

It was really cool to ride trains from 1930s but it was too packed inside

Stumbled upon her again a couple months later

I could fit all my darkroom equipments in that bag

Visiting the flight museum, cockpit check

İstanbul was on the 9th line from bottom

March 2019, New York

Ozgur Aydogdu 2/20/18 Ozgur Aydogdu 2/20/18

Nice and Cozy

Catching up from last summer. I just keep documenting streets and people around me that make my life worthwhile, without really thinking too much about what to do with all these photos…

Catching up from last summer. I just keep documenting streets and people around me that make my life worthwhile, without really thinking too much about what to do with all these photos. I like the freedom to express myself through photography and I’ll keep doing it as long as it keeps me in the flow.

All photos are Tri-X at 800 developed in XTOL 1:1, 10:30mins at 21°C, shot with Leica M6 and 35mm Summicron ASPH. Grab some coffee and enjoy!

NYC Pride day. The parade was too crowded so I decided to walk along the streets of Greenwich Village

which I think is the best way to capture the spirit

Came across the legendary Harvey Stein in the crowd. We had a nice chat and he showed me his Leica M4, which was pretty much in this condition.

It’s always cheesy and insincere when big brands try to take advantage of these events, but this trio was just too cute to not feature

Retro birthday present for Kemal, ready to ship to Moscow

One of those books that you order five more copies as soon as you finish it, and gift them to your bestfriends

When you lost your favorite toy in the bushes

The Atlas of Misty Continents, never gets old — *The Atlas of Misty Continents*, never gets old

That time of the year again, Jazz Age Lawn Party at Governor’s Island

Family trying to decide what to eat. Like the expressions

They were having a very heated discussion, looked ironic with that rose he’s carrying on his back

Visit to Storm King Art Center, an open-air museum with some pretty cool giant contemporary sculptures

All we wanted was to celebrate Rae’s birthday and Ugur’s new job and to chill a bit — All we wanted was to celebrate Rae’s birthday and Ugur’s new job and to *chill a bit*

It wasn’t long before we found ourselves having depressing discussions, mostly on the constitutional referendum in Turkey, which was held that very day.

Hector being Hector, I have no idea where I took this photo and the background doesn’t help

I was walking the crosswalk when he noticed my camera and said he has a film rangefinder, too. Then took out his Canon QL and we shot each other at the same time. Had a little chat before the lights turned green. Only could happen in NYC moment — I was walking the crosswalk when he noticed my camera and said he has a film rangefinder, too. Then took out his Canon QL and we shot each other at the same time. Had a little chat before the lights turned green. *Only could happen in NYC* moment

by Chloe‘s restroom — *by Chloe*‘s restroom

February 2018, New York

Ozgur Aydogdu 12/28/17 Ozgur Aydogdu 12/28/17

What’s so Funny, Sir?

This one starts with VES NYC Awards night, a fancy event mostly for New York’s VFX community to gather in person and complain each other about their studios…

This one starts with Visual Effects Society NYC awards night. It was pretty dark inside, wasn't expecting anything usable would come out but ISO 2000 helped me save the night.

It’s a fancy event mostly for New York’s VFX community to gather in person and complain each other about their studios.

Though it was a good excuse for me to see one my favorite directors in the flesh..

Darren Aronofsky giving his acceptance speech for the Empire Award

Some familiar faces on the red carpet, Lucy and Chloe

Finally I traded in my two 25+ year old Summicrons to get a brand new Summicron 35mm ASPH, it was a pretty good deal for me considering that I wasn’t shooting with the 50mm at all. I like how Leica glass keeps its value over time. All photos from this point on are exposed on Tri-x at 800 with the new lens.

First impressions: It’s crazy sharp, so sharp that it even feels a bit too clinical sometimes, but I really like the contrast, which was the main reason for me upgrading from the pre-ASPH model.

When zone focusing fails you in a good way

They asked my Facebook page to see the photo. I said I usually share them on a blog but none of us had a pen to write the address. Definitely need a business card for these kind of situations.

She was swearing at a man who shouldered her seconds ago

Yet another NYC street photo ruined by some vehicle in the background. Though you can still see some wrinkles and expression, if you’re not looking on your phone, of course.

I like the way highlights leak out of the frame on a negative, especially when the lens is wide open. Feels more organic and makes a unique border to each photo. I like to use that on darkroom prints, too.

I wanted to get that natural border in my scans as well and that’s when I realized how brutally my scanner (Nikon Coolscan V ED) has been cropping the photos by default, from top and bottom. I had to physically hack the device with a utility knife s… — I wanted to get that natural border in my scans as well and that’s when I realized how brutally my scanner (Nikon Coolscan V ED) has been cropping the photos by default, from top and bottom. I had to physically hack the device with a utility knife so now it scans the whole frame

I love the expression cashiers make every time we walk in a Starbucks and Çiğdem asks for hot tea

She said she turned 100 the day before. We had a nice chat and she wished us a happy life

I agree with the ladies, what’s so funny, sir?

When you come back home from Turkish market

Rosa’s mom paying homage to Di Stefano, a heated debate over who the best soccer player in history was

Batman arrives in the crime scene — Batman arrives in *the crime scene*

Doing 24,000 steps in the city, ends up with the coziest train ride

December 2017, New York

Ozgur Aydogdu 7/29/17 Ozgur Aydogdu 7/29/17

Williamsburg Vigilante

Trying to catch up with some old season stuff, dozens of rolls waiting to be developed.. Wandering here and there mostly in the city…

Trying to catch up with some old season stuff, dozens of rolls waiting to be developed.. Wandering here and there mostly in the city, all shot with Leica M6, Summicron 35mm Pre-ASPH, Tri-x exposed at 800-1000-1600 and developed in XTOL, enjoy!

From the men waiting while their wives shop series — From the *men waiting while their wives shop* series

Tried to take puppy’s attention several times for an eye contact, and this is the result. I definitely need to improve my silent barking skills

On our way to The Wassaic Project. An artist-run, multidisciplinary arts festival situated on a bunch of historic farm structures in Wassaic, a small, cute town at the very end of Metro North’s Harlem line

A barn theater where they were screening animated shorts, saw a bunch of cool student films

Lots of creative activities for kids, too

Lucky ones to find some shade under the bright sun

Now you can post that on Fotokritik — Now you can post that on *Fotokritik*

Waiting in the line with a friend of a friend of a farmer — Waiting in the line with a friend of a *friend of a farmer*

Taking advantage of the long red light, morning stretch

In a lovely French bakery next to Leica Gallery, while I was having a croissant and waiting for the gallery to open

Reminded me the mad scientist who can’t dream, from The City of Lost Children — Reminded me the mad scientist who can’t dream, from *The City of Lost Children*

Wonder how the baby’s glasses looked like

I guess they were in the middle of an argument

Bumped into the anti-bike Williamsburg vigilante

This one reveals how lazy I am sometimes, to develop, scan and post photos on time

The little one seems to be an aspiring street photography appreciator

I like how the bodybuilder Spiderman is a misfit in the scene

He was on the phone talking when I took the shot, I was just passing by – all of a sudden he changed the conversation and started talking about my camera, lens model etc to the other person on the phone. I started laughing and waited for him to fini… — He was on the phone talking when I took the shot, I was just passing by – all of a sudden he changed the conversation and started talking about my camera, lens model etc to the other person on the phone. I started laughing and waited for him to finish. Had a little chat afterwards, funny moment

I’ll take it, only if the flight is overbooked

One of the rare photos that doesn’t have a cell phone in it

Leading the viewer’s eye to the subject with pita chips

Oh, I’ve always thought that it was just an arbitrary company name

A democracy held together with safety pins

July 2017, New York

Ozgur Aydogdu 7/12/16 Ozgur Aydogdu 7/12/16

From NYC with Love

First post after moving to United States. It took a while to settle down but I finally worked my way back to film photography. I tried digital for a while but sorry, grain calls me…

As I left the majority of my family behind, I can see the blog is heading towards more street than personal stuff. Not complaining but I’ll definitely miss those none-sense daily photos. All Tri-x between 800-1600 ISO shot with Leica M6 and Summicron 35mm and 50mm, developed mostly in XTOL, some grainy ones in HC-110. enjoy!

I was so focused on capturing the train operator that I don’t even remember shooting this one

A dog, a girl and a guy cuting his own clone’s hair — A dog, a girl and a guy cuting his own clone’s hair

Sending her off to Turkey, time to say good bye

Life at Mamaroneck Ave. Gothic font freaks me out

He stood there reading just like that for about an hour, Barnes & Noble

Having the best Salmon Pesto Monterey in the world with Daniel, some fish place in Armonk

Took a nap standing up for two stops on express q train, wish I had that super power

Selfie with some Bryant Park grass in the background — Selfie with some Bryant Park grass in the background

She had purple hair, same color as the rose on her shoulder, too bad I didn’t have color film

Played Itsy Bitsy Spider for Rüzgar — Played *Itsy Bitsy Spider* for Rüzgar

Enjoying the breeze, Governor’s Island ferry

Found out that he’s mMichael Arenella, founder of the jazz age lawn party — Found out that he’s Michael Arenella, founder of the jazz age lawn party

A Williamsburg native, we had a small talk, he said the neighborhood changed so much recently that he feels himself as a foreigner

people taking photos of people taking photos said the guy with shades, 3 seconds after I released the shutter — *people taking photos of people taking photos* said the guy with shades, 3 seconds after I released the shutter

Sorry that fear and hatred won.. Once again

July 2016, New York

Ozgur Aydogdu 10/9/14 Ozgur Aydogdu 10/9/14

Don’t Mess with my Home

The chemicals and film prices went so freaking high in Turkey that I had to quit film and put everything on hold for a while. Finally found some time and enthusiasm to get the blog running again…

Back to blogging with a packed, dirty post after a while. A lot happened meanwhile. At some point the chemicals and film prices went so freaking high in Turkey that I had to quit film and put everything on hold for a while. Finally found some time and enthusiasm to get the blog running again. Sharing stuff from here and there. Not much street on this one, mostly documenting stuff going around me as I go to places. All Tri-x between 800-2400 ISO shot with Leica M6 and Summicron 35mm V4

Starting with some photos from the set of Yahşi Batı (The Ottoman Cowbows)

They literally built the whole town, even the interiors

I must say it was one of the best organized feature film sets I’ve ever been, but we still had to sleep in the car and wake up at 3am for a retake

The sequence they shot that night, we were responsible to make the butterfly and the tumbleweed at the end in CG.

Stopped by at Cumalıkızık on the way to Ayca’s wedding

A well-preserved Ottoman village with not so well street vendors

That’s the question — *That’s* the question

Gave a visit to Erkan’s, everything went fine until Çiğdem fell asleep in the doorway

A surprisingly quiet night at Çeliktepe. No street fights, no soldier send-off celebrations.

At the opening ceromony of Balat Art Square — At the opening ceromony of *Balat Art Square*

A group of protesters broke into the place with their shirts labeled ”Don’t mess with my home” — A group of protesters broke into the place with their shirts labeled *”Don’t mess with my home”*

They’ve been raising their voice against the slum clearance in Balat for a while, trying to take mayor’s attention this time

A foreign journalist taking notes (with a beautiful handwriting and amazing layout)

Edeple varis, Lütufla dönüş in a galaxy far, far away — *Edeple varis, Lütufla dönüş* in a galaxy far, far away

Back to office, side effects of working for commercials. Even the plush toy crashed

That’s what a post-production studio trash bin looks like

On the set for an Art-Documentary shooting at Hagia Irene, a 1600 year old historical Orthodox church in İstanbul — On the set for an Art-Documentary shooting at *Hagia Irene*, a 1600 year old historical Orthodox church in İstanbul

13 & 13, a 13 episode show produced by TRT, where artists and musicians meet up, perform their art, improvise and feed each other. Each episode is 13 minutes as you might guess — *13 & 13*, a 13 episode show produced by TRT, where artists and musicians meet up, perform their art, improvise and feed each other. Each episode is 13 minutes as you might guess

In this episode my father is accompanied by harpist Zeynep Öykü

hHere is the final cut, if you are into that kind of stuff — Here is the final cut, if you are into that kind of stuff

Don’t remember exactly but it must be Tri-x rated at 1600

One of my favorites from the day, the triangles seem to work there

This one got printed on his latest book last year

Never been to the place before. Breathtaking ambiance.

The paintings from each episode find their way to an auction for charity.

At least he finally has a Facebook profile photo, if you don’t mind the acrylic splashes

Chilling at home. Uykusuz & Turkish Coffee

Bayram morning, Ankara — *Bayram* morning, Ankara

Looks like dad placed my darkroom prints on the best spot

Mustafa Abi (and a Fatih Urunç in the back) — Mustafa Abi (and a *Fatih Urunç* in the back)

Visiting Yunus Tonkuş — Visiting *Yunus Tonkuş*

On the set of Av Mevsimi (Hunting Season). Crew setting up the fog for the scene

Smart way to protect an Arricam from rain

Leads taking a break between shots, Şener Şen and Çetin Tekindor — Leads catching their breath between takes, *Şener Şen* and *Çetin Tekindor*

He noticed my Leica and called me over, we had a nice chat for a few of minutes. All the urban legends I heard about him seem to be true, though. Imagine the most strict teacher you had in high school. I couldn’t even ask for a photo. — He noticed my camera and called me over, we had a nice chat for a few of minutes. All the urban legends I heard about him seem to be true, though. Imagine the most strict teacher you had in high school. I couldn’t even ask for a photo.

Weekend visit to Dikmen family, Urla — Weekend visit to *Dikmen* family, Urla

Şinasi Dikmen talking about his upcoming projects — *Şinasi Dikmen* talking about his upcoming projects

We agreed to buy their house if they ever decide to move back to Germany

Visiting Cuma Ocaklı in his studio — Visiting *Cuma Ocaklı* in his studio

Off to Eskişehir, as a proud member of The Underdevelopers Club — Off to Eskişehir, as a proud member of *The Underdevelopers Club*

How is “Masal Dünyası Yapılması İşi” going? — How is “*Masal Dünyası Yapılması İşi”* going?

Gave a visit to the village where my father was born, countryside near Konya

All the family members moved to bigger cities over time and no one living in here any more. Adobe house is eventually falling apart.

İbrahim showing a hand-made walking stick. I’ve always liked those columns by the way

Back to İstanbul, protesting government’s internet bans

Photo shooting session for the exhibition invitation card, 17mm

October 2014, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 8/2/09 Ozgur Aydogdu 8/2/09

Dad, Me, and the Acrylic Splash on my Shirt

Wow! Its been months since my last post. Finally I’m back from the army. I wish I had the opportunity to use my camera there. Naturally it was strictly forbidden…

Wow! Its been months since my last post. Finally I’m back from the army. I wish I had the opportunity to use my camera there. Naturally it was strictly forbidden. It was so funny to witness a bunch of grown up men gather, -in the name of serving the country- form an artificial reign, role play with that ridiculous attitude of no earthly use and call this military. Not to bore you with these endless discussions, it was a total waste of time.

Starting with the pre-army shots. I feel like its been ages since those days. I really don’t remember what the topic was. so I just submit them more or less in chronological order. Looks like a weekend visit to Ankara.

He was preparing for the exhibition at Milli Reasurans Art Gallery

Which I missed, being under arms — Which I missed, being *under arms*

Collecting strange closets from all over the world

He uses power wash as a part of the process

Dad, me, and the acrylic splash on my shirt

Everything is illuminated! I was there to make a preliminary photo shoot of the rock band Cicibebe for their upcoming album, Last Nail in the Coffin

Some familier faces of the band, Erdem from high school — Some familiar faces of the band, Erdem from high school

And uni classmate Kıvanç, look how fragile he is

A focal length of 35mm can capture unwanted details

After years of gigging in Ankara pubs, they finally end up with an album. The interesting part is that the CD they released was empty so one can download and burn the MP3s in it. Thus they made a remarkable impact on the music community, stating that there’s no difference left between a music CD and an empty CD.

Back to İstanbul. I’m seriously planning to start a series of kitchens in the night. Çiğdem’s

Title of a poem in a street writing.. Something you can expect from Cihangir

On the set of Tadelle commercial.. I was responsible for taking some reference photos and preparing the HDR image to be used in visual effects.

Director of photographer Tobias Hochstein from Israel. He was there for three days, setting up a unique look for the commercial. He noticed my Leica, took out his Leica MP and we had two days of nice chat. Hope to see you again in Turkey, mate!

The muscle guy was going to put a baby to sleep in the shot. They bring him a fake one for rehearsal

We made an agreement with Erkan and Sertaç, to visit all of the big stadiums in İstanbul before I leave for the army. It was a good excuse for me to see Arsenal in the flesh.

Desperately trying to spend the last few days with the beloved ones, Eskişehir

I have no idea where this photo came out of, should be from three or four rolls earlier, sister making up

Dad and Amelie Edgü working on the catalogue of the exhibition, Milli Reasürans Art Gallery

and that was my last shot before the 6-month separation.

…

May 2009. I’m back

We gave a visit to Umut’s new apartmen with Çiğdem

Looks like he became obsessed with Power Rangers while I was away

Going through some students’ assignments. Sis was advising him to keep it for the end of year exhibition, off the record — Going through some students’ assignments. Sis was advising him to keep it for the end of year exhibition, *off the record*

back home. Çınar and sis playing doctor-patient

Çınar getting upset just before I leave. I doubt it’s because he’s not on the train, though

August 2009, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 8/12/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 8/12/08

What You Step is What You Pee

We were on a one week trip at italy. Full of tourists at this time of the year. Following shots mostly exposed at Venice, Florence, Rome and Naples…

We were on a one week trip at Italy. Full of tourists at this time of the year. Following shots mostly exposed at Venice, Florence, Rome and Naples with the ordinary setting of Trix at 1600 and developed in XTOL 1:1, 17,5 minutes at 21°C. We had this ultra fine wheather on the contrary, I had a chance to fully experience the ND filter.

Guy recording the caricaturists at Piazza del Duomo

Around Accademia and duomo in the back, about where they claim that there are 463 steps to the top, which is a huge lie. I probably lost 3 kilos climbing

I have no idea what that reflection on the negative is. Looks like someone sabsabotaged my shot

We decided go to Pisa by train to get rid of the tour community

Santa Maria in Trastevere, interreligious activity

An experimental toilet I bumped into at a stop over before pompei trip, what you step is what you pee.

Naples, pretty much like İstanbul, full of chaos

Those men in suits and their helmets on, going to work by scooters. Would be a very conflict scene in Turkey

August 2008, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 7/29/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 7/29/08

Hmm, it’s Old!

Last month we were in Ankara for Senemk & Erhan’s wedding and I was there once again to annoy the commissioned photographers of the event…

Last month we were in Ankara for Senemk & Erhan’s wedding and I was there once again to harass the comissioned photographers of the place — Last month we were in Ankara for Senemk & Erhan’s wedding and I was there once again to annoy the commissioned photographers of the event

I was just waiting for the pose instructions to come to an end, when guy with the camcorder saw my Leica and asked me to take a look at it. Looked over for about a minute and said “Hmm, it’s old!” — I was just waiting for the pose instructions to come to an end, when guy with the camcorder saw my Leica and asked me to take a look at it. Looked over for about a minute and said *“Hmm, it’s old!”*

We had some nice ambience in the terrace

Taking to the stage with Gülüm Benim from İbo — Taking to the stage with *Gülüm Benim* from *İbo*

Dad showing me Bedri Baykam’s original mirror writings (sorry, there was no sperm on it) — Dad showing me Bedri Baykam’s original mirror writings *(sorry, there was no sperm on it)*

We finally organized the photos including some of the above and made some prints as a wedding gift

I was just walking back to home when I bumped into the crowd for Metallica concert, I noticed a young group drinking and shouting around, I approached and asked for taking some photos as they were using this homemade tool for downing the beer — I was just walking back to home when I bumped into the crowd for Metallica concert, I noticed a young group drinking and shouting around, I approached and asked for taking some photos as they were using this homemade tool for *downing the beer*

Okay, the idea was nothing new but it was funny that they combined some crap house cleaning tools to make it

Learned all the tips & tricks by the way

Guy said they’re using a different technique coming from Çeşme..

lowering the total absorption time down to 2 seconds

The guy was talking about the history of Metallica

And finishing with some fresh chewing gum tattoos

July 2008, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 6/10/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 6/10/08

World’s Reflection Day

Starting from May with a few shots. Gone out for a walk on the world’s reflection day…

Some crap results at 400 developed in 8 minutes (XTOL 1:1, 20°C)

Gone out for a walk on the World’s Reflection Day

At the office, with an old classmate, Cahit

Some breakfast place called Ağaç Cafe where you can find the cheapest menemen in İstanbul — Some breakfast place called Ağaç Cafe where you can find the cheapest *menemen* in İstanbul

The owner guy of Taksim, living in a small way

Dad working in the garden, this time preparing for another project

in which some Turkish journalists, artists and photographers visit Van Gogh in France and reinterpret his life and work

Back to İstanbul, watching Turkey vs. Portugal

At a very inconsistent cafe at Beyoğlu.. We asked if they have backgammon just before we sit and the waitress answered “Yeah, sure”. We took our seats, ordered some tea and asked for the backgammon again and she said “Sorry, it’s forbidden to play”

Next roll (Trix) mostly exposed in Eminönü at 1600 and developed in XTOL 1:1, 18 minutes at 21°C

This one can be quite a scary scene if you’ve seen El Orfanato recently — This one can be quite a scary scene if you’ve seen *El Orfanato* recently

June 2008, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 5/14/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 5/14/08

The Most Hated Motion Designer on Earth

I was making my way from metro to home when I saw this operator guy switched on the auto-pilot, got off the vehicle, lighted up a cigar and started walking with it. Looked like he had taken his giant pet out for a walk…

Surprisingly spending time with Deniz & Umut this time

The night ended with The Hall disaster though I feel lucky to have snapped this one on the way — The night ended with *The Hall* disaster though I feel lucky to have snapped this one on the way

See the caustics effect that those extreme rims make on the floor? Amazing, nice culture acquisition on streets thanks to Need for Speed

Met one of my ancient friends, the most hated motion designer on earth, Cem Gül at the supermarket

One who can eat pickles is always an interesting subject for me

I was making my way from metro to home when I saw this operator guy switched on the auto-pilot (something like 2 km/h) got off the vehicle, lighted up a cigar and started walking with it. Looked like he had taken his giant pet out for a walk.

Following are some Trixs at 1000, developed in XTOL 1:1, 11 minutes at 20°C, on my way to the office

A red beetle toy in a red beetle. I remember we used to count a hundred of them to make a wish. Makes no sense in black and white, though.

Joined Çınar’s 2nd birthday party with a two day delay, Eskişehir

So we headed our way to Mürşit Hoca’s studio

where my father was going to prepare some huge ceramic boards to be placed on the ground somewhere in Trabzon as an art installation

Mürşit Hoca and his crew responsible of arranging the resources and the cooking process

We used some fat, abundant clay from Mesopotamia

Hanging around the depressing Haydarpaşa

Some book piracy at the heart of Eminönü Square. Respect the effort, brothers, and don’t forget the reps — Some book piracy at the heart of Eminönü Square. Respect the effort, brothers, and don’t forget the *reps*

These f11 1/1000s piss me off it’s obvious that I need a ND filter as soon as possible

May 2008, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 4/21/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 4/21/08

That Train will Stop Right Here!

The super bright Ankara Subway. Fits Melih Gökçek’s style very well: We have the best illuminated subway cars among all European capital cities…

I don’t advise you to look at this photo more than three seconds

Some nice Trivial Pursuit session against the most ignorant couple ever!

This leave the shopping cart and go situation is a bit misunderstood about here. You can go as far as you want with it and you don’t have to bother leaving it in a corner or a suitable place — This *leave the shopping cart and go* situation is a bit misunderstood about here. You can go as far as you want with it and you don’t have to bother leaving it in a corner or a suitable place

Umut celebrating the 50th year of Pizza Hut

Colleagues getting ready for the workshop in Resfest

He kindly asked me not to include his feet in the frame

Extreme damp is literally ruining my house

At Deniz’s. Umut prepared some nice chili con carne for us. For those interested, here is what he used for the recipe — At Deniz’s. Umut prepared some nice *chili con carne* for us. For those interested, here is what he used for the recipe

Her cat Pudra, smelled some testosterone — Her cat *Pudra*, smelled some testosterone

I had no idea what he was doing there alone at 2 am. Pretty strange people hanging out around my house nowadays. f2 1/2 second

Out for my one day trip to Ankara, f2 1/15th

You know I was looking for the responsibles for this shopping cart issue for a while

Waiting for the service vehicle, f2 1/8th

Okay, I give up. I stumbled upon this three-wheeled shopping cart on the 4th floor of a university building. Nothing surprises me anymore.

Something new on the stairs that I’ve been using for the past 10 years. Meaning abrogation, the rising rap star of Batikent? No doubt. f2 1/4th — Something new on the stairs that I’ve been using for the past 10 years. Meaning *abrogation*, the rising rap star of Batikent? No doubt. f2 1/4th

Subway of Ankara. My meter says 4 times more light is entering through the lens than it would in İstanbul with my default subway setting. Fits Melih Gökçek’s style very well: We have the best illuminated subway cars among all European capital cities — Subway of Ankara. My meter says 4 times more light is entering through the lens than it would in İstanbul with my default subway setting. Fits Melih Gökçek’s style very well: *We have the best illuminated subway cars among all European capital cities*

Chilling out with Kıvanç before his gig performance and my home journey, Burger King

Aşti harbouring lots of exhausted passengers as usual, waiting for their connections. Shaded side of the waiting lounge, f2 1/8th — *Aşti* harbouring lots of exhausted passengers as usual, waiting for their connections. Shaded side of the waiting lounge, f2 1/8th

Back to İstanbul, Umut agitated this roll. Another Trix at 1000, developed in HC-110, 17 minutes at 20°C, 1:63

The Epson V700 film holders piss me off since my films tend to curl towards the emulsion side all the time. I finally attached 4 needles vertically on the 6 exposure strip holder so that they match the spaces between frames, keeping the negatives fl… — The Epson V700 film holders piss me off since my films tend to curl towards the emulsion side all the time. I finally attached 4 needles vertically on the 6 exposure strip holder so that they match the spaces between frames, keeping the negatives flat. Also set the document table height 0.5mm lower considering the needle thickness (how clever). It seems I got some sharper results. I mean sharp enough for a 1/8th

Then we were at this very interesting four storey dürüm eating house, each storey about 10 meters square — Then we were at this very interesting four storey *dürüm eating house*, each storey about 10 meters square

Yet irrelevant, though my fav from the night

Having decided to end the day with some drink, we bumped into one of Deniz’s ancient friends, Umay Umay

April 2008, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 3/17/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 3/17/08

Pinarda

Having dealed with this fucking angina boosted with 10 injections, I finally found some energy to make it to Sirkeci…

Some building in Asmalımescit having this interesting triangle elevator

Somebody please tell me what the fuck is pinarda — Somebody please tell me what the fuck is *pinarda*

Heading our way to the museum, we bumped into Meriç and Burcu

Çiğdem claims she acted in Şehnaz Tango. I don’t remember, to be honest — Çiğdem claims she acted in *Şehnaz Tango*. I don’t remember, to be honest

Too many encounters for a sunday. Waiting for the subway, we bumped into an old classmate, Alper, on the single off day of his military service

An ordinary scene from grandma’s kitchen, Bakırkoy. I kinda like it

Şişli bus station can be an interesting place at night

Having dealed with this fucking angina boosted with 10 injections, I finally found some energy to make it to Sirkeci

And loaded some fresh rolls of Tri-x (this one pushed to 1000 developed in HC-110, 13 minutes at 20°C with a strange dilution of 1:45 as my tank is too small to develop two rolls at the same time with 1:63)

Then we decided to celebrate the last injection with a railway journey to Ankara

And headed our way to Haydarpaşa Railway Station

We made it directly to the dining car. All 1/8th f2 on the shaking train

To whom this may concern, the coat belongs to Bilge

The dining car was all the way full right after the train time. Time to share table with strangers

Traveling 450km in 9 hours can be a pain in the ass

Looks like we have a family gathering going on

This time we have the Jungle Book on the tray

He was preparing the guestbook, for the exhibition opening

The thing is I missed the opening, turning the climax of this entry into a disaster.

March 2008, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 3/9/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 3/9/08

It’s a Leica

Looking around he noticed my camera and directly asked if I am studying photography. Sick of hearing this question…

Chit chat session with Umut, some strange place in Beyoğlu

Çiğdem killing some time before the movie

I missed the bus thus I was forced to use light rail system for the following 90 minutes

In about 15 minutes from Zeytinburnu to Sirkeci, this guy sitting across me kept talking his buddy’s head off jumping from one subject to another. At the moment I know everything about CNC machines, recent street railway accidents, his father’s memo… — In about 15 minutes from Zeytinburnu to Sirkeci, this guy sitting across me kept talking his buddy’s head off jumping from one subject to another. At the moment I know everything about CNC machines, recent street railway accidents, his father’s memoirs in jail, shock heating techniques of milk production factories, reasons of dramatic failure in GS Store profits and the ability of Teknosa shop assistants

This man replaced the young know-it-all, looking around he noticed my camera and directly asked if I am studying photography. Sick of hearing this question. The point is film is not considered to be something one can willingly deal with, anymore.

Walked from one end to the other in the rail car to make a photo of this interesting figure

From bus to subway. I feel better in underground

Next day we had 2nd birthday party of 1000 volt. Çiğdem getting ready for the stage

On the way to the place. the party roll is a Trix pushed to 3200. Developed in HC-110, 15 minutes at 20°C (1:31)

I had no hope that anything could turn out well in that light

We had this Berlin-based bass heavy trio Jahcoozi on the stage

Luca in the crowd, I remember shooting this one

The last thing I remember was that Pınar jumped onto the stage

Definitely my favorite from the night. Love the expression of the smoking girl

See the grand guy staring at me? Seconds later we bumped into eachother and he started shooting questions at me about lens, aperture, etc. Being drunk and snob I said It’s a leica and walked away, he should have cursed me — See the *grand* guy staring at me? Seconds later we bumped into eachother and he started shooting questions at me about lens, aperture, etc. Being drunk and snob I said *It’s a leica* and walked away, he should have cursed me

It started to get crowded inside, there was literally no room to step. And we left

March 2008, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 2/27/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 2/27/08

Reusable Shit

For some reason this roll didn’t load on the spiral, I got so furious that I decided to torture the film. Did everything that shouldn’t be done. Touched the negative all over, further exposed some areas through the door lock, made some huge scratches using a pin and dropped it on the floor for a couple of times…

Well, for some reason this roll didn’t load on the spiral, I got so furious that I decided to torture the film. Did everything that shouldn’t be done. Touched the negative all over, further exposed some areas through the door lock, made some huge scratches using a pin and dropped it on the floor for a couple of times. Then I forced the film in the spiral again and developed this Tri-x at 1000, HC-110 9 minutes at 20°C (dil B 1:31). It seems to lose every detail though I enjoyed the experimental process.

There were three more pizzas, believe me

Luca doing some reusable shit on the floor

Open-air display leaned against a stool, some fresh VCDs for your taste. Next roll, Trix + 1,5 again

I don’t understand why some people get furious when others try to read their newspapers. A sine qua non for public transportation. You share the trip, you share the seat, you share the boredom and you share the newspaper, that’s it.

Another subway hipshot, little cutie was looking for her dad, terrible framing

Next day we had this huge snowstorm in İstanbul. I remember we used to have snow like that when I was a little kid

A broken closet in the snow, what a pointless scene. My favorite of the roll, 1/4th at f2

February 2008, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 2/20/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 2/20/08

Like a Dream

My weekend started with this intercorporate meeting during which we made serious plans of conquering the world. The details are confidential, sorry…

Working on saturdays can be a pain in the ass. I was lucky enough to have arranged a 27 hours weekend visit to Eskişehir, where my nephew and his family lives.

Arrived in beautiful Eskişehir, Çınar welcomes us

Çınar following his grandfather’s footprints

It was Robert’s Coffee (no Starbucks in Eskişehir)

Watching Atlantis the Lost Empire for the 9th time

I made this possible with a rangefinder and Trix+2

Big grin on my face everytime I see this photo

Meanwhile in the back room. White explosion fits the mood so well. My favorite.

A good example of why I love black and white photography. What turned out here is pretty different from what I saw through my left eye at that moment. BW transforms reality into something else..

Eskişehir has such a little, cute airport that only small planes are allowed to take off and land

Back to İstanbul with some hip shots, all 1/15th f2, Plusx 125

February 2008, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 2/12/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 2/12/08

The Last Turşusuz Cheeseburger

I heard rumours about Umut that he was busy trying to combine these two photos to make one…

I went home, saw the scene and immediately ran away

Hanging out with Çiğdem, some kind of a jazz bar in Taksim

Felt hungy. preparing the last turşusuz cheeseburger of his shift, 2.30 am — Felt hungy. preparing the last *turşusuz* cheeseburger of his shift, 2.30 am

I had my cam snatched by Umut, sound room chronicles

Transit the desperate office dog — *Transit* the desperate office dog

I heard rumours about Umut that he was busy trying to combine these two photos to make one

February 2008, Istanbul

Ozgur Aydogdu 1/26/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 1/26/08

Ankara Has Run out of Water!

Wandering around Beyoğlu, the guy was standing still in this pose, reminds me the lifeless model Vahe Kılıçarslan…

Saw The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, Alkazar — Saw *The Diving Bell and the Butterfly*, Alkazar

Subway cliché, I like the expression of the man, we usually get on the same subway car lately

On my way to Ankara, random guy in Nilufer bus station

He was too busy with his novel notebook, a painting diary reflecting his recent confusions, 500 numbered copies printed

He arranged a small atelier at home, signing the notebook for friends

An İsmail Yıldırım in the corner — An *İsmail Yıldırım* in the corner

This was my bed when I lived with my family — This *was* my bed when I lived with my family

Took some photos of the notebook for the press, front yard

Break for a social message, dear friends Ankara has run out of water, you know what to do

Last moments of the two day family visit at the station

January 2008, Ankara

Ozgur Aydogdu 1/18/08 Ozgur Aydogdu 1/18/08

With pleasure, Mr.

Everything was great until the guy began singing out some kind of folksong very loud…

We were at the celebration after the press conference, for release of İbrahim Karaoğlu’s book about artist İbrahim Örs book of artistic analysis on which they used one of my crap shots as portrait of the author. Everything was great until the guy began singing out some kind of folksong very loud…

Lots of figures from fine arts community and literary world, Hanefi Yeter

Ending the party with the starring.. he signed the book for me and noted down: I hope you make a photo of me someday, brother

Bad news is that these were the last shots I made with my beloved Pentax me Super, it’s broken now and way beyond repair. After a few weeks of Ebaying I found a clean Leica M6 coupled with a Cron 35mm. First shots, Tri-x at 800 developed with Ilfosol (very crap combo)

We discovered a nice tea-house near Çiğdem’s house

Pointless photo session with Umut, hosted by the Avid room

This is last time I use Ilfosol, that’s for sure

Tolga. Having telecined for the last 8 hours, he can’t open his eyes at light.

Pointless photo session with Umut again, this time hosted by the sound room. All 1/8th

Having ran out of chemicals, I had this roll developed and scanned at some photo store. I don’t understand how and why they produce sepia toned images from my Tri-x rolls every single time. I feel confused trying to desaturate BW shots.

Actually, I love the way these digital photo stores approach on BW film photography.

- Hi, do you have any kind of BW film?
- Take this Kodak Gold, just shoot and we can convert your photos to black and white.

Later on, I realized that this guy was the fairest. Some try to sell expired rolls for $10.

There is no doubt that the most enjoyable part is trying to print something with these guys. Taking the initiative, he tries to brighten the photo to reveal the face in silhouette, or cancels the print for a particular photo if he doesn’t like the composition, claiming that it’s a crap photo shot by mistake.

January 2008, Istanbul