I talk about this a lot— that often I will travel to a place expecting to be mind-blown by a very specific landmark or destination, only to be surprised when a DIFFERENT site upstages the original agenda and usurps my fascination.

It happened with Mountain Everest (when I found myself much more enamored with a different peak, Ama Dablam), and it certainly happened with the Hagia Sophia.

For whatever reason, instead of spending my time photographing the Hagia Sophia, according to my original plan, I was unexpectedly much more enamored with the nearby Blue Mosque— even though prior to arriving in Istanbul, I wasn’t even aware of its existence! 😜😂

What a treat. As you can see, it is simply magnificent, and doesn’t need much explanation as to why its grandeur and subtle opulence instantly stole my heart and lens. 😍