The Magnificent Mausoleum
Visiting the Taj Mahal was truly a dream come true. To be face-to-face with its intricate embellishment is awe-inspiring. Like most, whilst travelling India’s Golden Triangle, I spent a couple of days here after visiting some of the best attractions in Delhi. The first, Friday, is when the site is closed. It was actually wonderful to see it from the other side without visitors. And then, on Saturday, I stepped inside and was rendered speechless – truly, that’s not a cliche here.
Without Water
That winning reflection shot? Everyone has it – except me.
But that’s no problem. The fact I arrived to renovation and painting work fascinated me. I felt like I was getting a behind-the-scenes look at this incredible monument. Many of my favourite photos from the day came from admiring the team who were working. And I tried to capture the Taj Mahal in the light of the day, rather than chase the “perfect photo”.
Embrace Personality
You know the drill. The Early bird catches the worm. I skipped this tip as the haze and weather were awful when I woke. But by being first in line it’s gonna be much easier to capture this mega busy attraction bobbing head free. Still, people are everywhere and perhaps that might “ruin” your photo. I strongly disagree. Personality is everywhere. Colour is everywhere. And I’d say this adds plenty to the magic of the Taj Mahal.
Visitors
I’m a firm believe a photo should tell some kind of story. The easiest way to do that with architecture? Try to understand what this building means to those around you. A beautiful sari adds a splash of colour, a pensive moment makes your own reminder.
Colour and detail
And maybe if you’re lucky, you’ll have the moment photobombed by some Monks.
On the water
Behind the Taj Mahal, you’ll find the Yamuna River. And behind that, the Mehtab Bagh gardens. Spend sunset in the gardens, hop on a boat in the morning (for a price – and not from the gardens, but down the side of the complex), and admire this incredible architectural wonder from all angles – you’ll never tire of noticing each and every detail.
Capture it your way
There are a lot of rules in the Taj Mahal complex. What you can do. What you can’t do. And to be honest, it can be chaotic and overwhelming. Sure, everyone wants to get that reflection shot. You wanna pinch the top of the Taj Mahal? Go for it. But don’t get hung up on a particular photo, explore every nook and cranny and you’ll find details and moments that you want to capture. Personal photos for you of a very once-in-a-lifetime visit.
