The character of a city encompasses its architecture, culture, people, and ambiance, all coming together in a unique blend. Capturing this essence through photography requires attention to detail, a talent for storytelling, and the ability to seize fleeting moments. Vivek Mathew, a photographer based in Bengaluru, discovered his passion for photography with a simple desire - to capture moments of brilliance through his lens. His cityscape photographs feature a fusion of human elements, historical landmarks, and the sky, which he describes as an essential role in his visual narratives.

Showcasing a monument's distinct character is about capturing its elegance. When photographing landmarks like the Vidhana Soudha during Independence Day or St Mary’s Basilica at Christmas, I focus on creating balanced compositions to highlight the structures as the sun sets. This approach allows me to reveal every intricate detail in the building, which is enhanced by the balance between natural daylight and artificial lighting for a visually pleasing image.

Adding people and vehicles to a street scene can provide visual depth and capture the bustling essence of a busy street. To achieve this, I pay attention to balancing elements like the sky and streetlights for a harmonious composition. These street photographs were taken during the transition to dusk, requiring patience to find the right balance between natural and artificial light sources.

Here are five ways to enhance your photography skills:

1. Conduct thorough research to understand the subject you want to capture.Perform some research to ensure optimal results. Conduct a reconnaissance of the location you plan to photograph for future reference. Persistence is key - be prepared to return multiple times until you capture the envisioned shot. Practice with an SLR camera for better quality photos compared to using a phone. Your first camera need not be expensive; find one that fits your budget. Understand sunset timings to maximize natural lighting opportunities. Observing your surroundings prior to taking a picture can provide insight on how to enhance your composition.