Places such as Athens can easily be made dramatic.
A deep blue sky, the strong contrast of ancient stone, and buildings recognised across the world often encourage photographers to create images that feel monumental. With a little processing, everything can appear grander than it truly is.
Yet while photographing there, I felt the need to restrain myself.
Places that carry a long history do not always require additional effects. Stones that have endured for thousands of years already hold their own stories.
I found myself drawn instead to simpler compositions. Natural light resting on a stone wall. A line of shadow appearing between narrow passages. Small moments that are often overlooked when we are too busy searching for grand images.
The longer I photograph, the more I realise that photography is not only about making something look impressive. Sometimes it is about preserving the honesty of what we see.
In a place like Athens, simplicity often creates space for the story to speak on its own.
Perhaps that is what I wish to protect in my photographs, allowing the image to remain faithful to the experience, rather than making it speak louder than the moment itself.
