Street Photography in Budapest: Capturing the Soul of the City

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture, Budapest is a paradise for street photographers. The city's unique blend of old-world charm and modern dynamism offers countless opportunities to capture compelling images that tell a story. As a photographer passionate about black and white (BW) photography, I find Budapest particularly captivating. The interplay of light and shadow, the textures of the historic buildings, and the candid moments of everyday life make it an ideal setting for monochrome shots.

Why Budapest is Perfect for Street Photography

Architectural Diversity: Budapest is a city where Baroque, Neoclassical, and Art Nouveau styles coexist harmoniously. From the grandeur of the Parliament Building to the intricate details of the Great Market Hall, every corner of the city offers a new perspective and a new story to tell.

Vibrant Street Life: The streets of Budapest are always bustling with activity. Whether it's the lively conversations at the cafes, the street performers at Váci Utca, or the serene moments along the Danube, there’s always something happening worth capturing.

Contrasts and Textures: Black and white photography thrives on contrasts, and Budapest delivers them in spades. The juxtaposition of the old and the new, the rich textures of the city's stonework, and the ever-changing play of light and shadow create visually striking images.

Tips for Capturing Stunning BW Street Photos in Budapest

1. Focus on Light and Shadow: Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to shoot, as the light is soft and shadows are long. Explore places like Fisherman's Bastion or the Buda Castle District during these times for dramatic effects.

2. Embrace the Rain: Don't shy away from bad weather. Rainy days in Budapest can result in moody and atmospheric shots, with reflections and glistening streets adding depth to your photos.

3. Look for Human Stories: Street photography is as much about people as it is about places. Capture the candid moments of Budapest's residents – an old couple walking hand-in-hand along the Danube, a street musician lost in his music, or children playing in a park.

4. Experiment with Angles: Don't be afraid to get creative with your angles. Shoot from high vantage points like the Citadel or go low to the ground to capture unique perspectives of everyday scenes.

Join My Street Photography Workshops in Budapest

If you're eager to refine your street photography skills and explore Budapest through the lens of black-and-white photography, consider joining one of my workshops.

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, my workshops offer a hands-on experience tailored to your skill level.

What You Can Expect:

• Guided Photowalks: Explore the city's hidden gems and popular spots with a small group of like-minded enthusiasts.

• Technical Guidance: Learn the intricacies of BW photography, from choosing the right settings to mastering post-processing techniques.

• Personalized Feedback: Get one-on-one critiques of your work to help you improve and develop your unique style.

• Inspiring Locations: Visit some of the best locations in Budapest for street photography, including the historic Jewish Quarter, the bustling Central Market, and the picturesque streets of the Castle District.

Join me on this photographic journey, and let's capture the soul of Budapest together.

For more information and to book your spot, visit msecchi.com.

Exploring Budapest Through the Lens: The Enriching Experience of a Photo Walk or Photography Workshop

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant street life, Budapest is a paradise for photographers. Whether you're an amateur with a keen eye or a seasoned pro, a photo walk or a photography workshop in this beautiful city is an opportunity to capture stunning images and an enriching experience that can transform your photographic skills and perspective. Here’s why a photography journey through Budapest is a must.

The Charm of Budapest

Budapest is often called the "Paris of the East," and it's easy to see why. The city boasts a blend of architectural styles, from Gothic and Baroque to Art Nouveau and modernist structures. The Danube River bisects the city, offering picturesque views of the iconic Chain Bridge, the grand Parliament Building, and the historic Buda Castle. The charm of Budapest lies in its contrasts: grand boulevards juxtaposed with narrow, winding streets; bustling markets next to serene thermal baths; and opulent palaces alongside remnants of its communist past.

Why a Photo Walk?

A photo walk is more than just a stroll with a camera. It’s an immersive experience that allows you to see a city from a different perspective. Here’s why a photo walk in Budapest is particularly special:

1. Discover Hidden Gems: Budapest is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From the quirky ruin bars in the Jewish Quarter to the vibrant street art that adorns the walls of the city, a photo walk can lead you to unexpected treasures that you might otherwise overlook.

2. Engage with Locals: Engaging with locals can add a unique dimension to your photos. Whether it's capturing the lively atmosphere of the Great Market Hall or the serene moments in a local café, interactions with the people of Budapest can provide compelling subjects and stories for your photography.

3. Improve Your Skills: Walking through Budapest with a camera in hand is a fantastic way to practice and improve your photography skills. The city's diverse scenes offer endless opportunities to experiment with different techniques, from street photography to architectural shots.

The Value of a Photography Workshop

While a photo walk can be a solo adventure, a photography workshop adds a layer of structured learning and professional guidance that can significantly enhance your experience. Here’s why participating in a photography workshop in Budapest is invaluable:

1. Expert Guidance: Led by professional photographers who know the city intimately, workshops provide tailored advice and tips to help you capture the best shots. You’ll learn how to use light effectively, compose your images, and master your camera settings.

2. Hands-On Learning: Workshops often combine theoretical lessons with hands-on practice. You’ll receive immediate feedback on your work, which can accelerate your learning process and help you overcome specific challenges.

3. Networking Opportunities: Joining a workshop means meeting other photography enthusiasts. This can be a great opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build lasting connections.

4. Unique Locations: Workshop leaders often have access to unique locations and insider knowledge that you wouldn’t find in guidebooks. Whether it’s a rooftop with a panoramic view of the city or a secluded spot along the Danube, these exclusive access points can lead to extraordinary photos.

Capturing the Spirit of Budapest

Budapest is a city that tells a story in every corner, and capturing its spirit through your lens can be incredibly rewarding. Whether it's the haunting beauty of the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, the grandeur of St. Stephen's Basilica, or the vibrant life in its many thermal baths, each photo you take will be a piece of Budapest’s soul.

Conclusion

Embarking on a photo walk or joining a photography workshop in Budapest is more than an opportunity to take beautiful pictures—it's an experience that enriches your understanding of the city and hones your photographic skills. The city’s blend of history, culture, and modern vibrancy provides a perfect canvas for creativity. So, grab your camera and immerse yourself in the visual feast that is Budapest. Whether you're capturing its timeless elegance or its everyday moments, Budapest promises a photographic journey like no other.

Check my Budapest Workshops here

Leica M10 - My impressions

I have owned and used a Leica M10 for about 2 months and these are my impressions

Leica has listened to their users and addressed many of their concerns. The highly anticipated Leica M10 is slimmer which makes it easier to handle and more comfortable to hold. A slew of other features that were upgraded with this camera include:

• Thinner and lighter body
• Bigger and brighter rangefinder
• Configurable Favorites menu replaces the Set menu
• Higher resolution rear LCD with a changed aspect ratio
• Simplified button layout
• Redesigned and dedicated ISO dial
• Improved weather sealing
• Faster buffering, processing and writing to disk
• Continuous shooting is lightning fast
• Superior high ISO capability
• Shoot wide aperture in good light with ease with the 100 ISO base
• Equipped with the Visoflex EVF for higher resolution and bright and clear images
• Less shutter lag and blackout with the live view feature
• Ability to move the exposure and zoom focus point while in live view

You get all these great features that the other cameras do not have and the only sacrifices you'll have to make are reduced battery life and no video.

This great little camera is about 50 grams lighter than the previous camera with dimensions being identical to the M6ttl and the M7. The thumb grip is a little deeper for a better grip and adds to the comfort level.

The redesigned rangefinder is about 30 percent larger and has a magnification of .72 versus the .68 found on previous cameras. This subtle improvement means you can see the 28 mm frame lines more easily and focusing is much easier with the high magnification.

Weather sealing makes shooting in bad weather easier. You still have to protect the camera when shooting in the rain because the M10 cannot be entirely weatherproof. But, the camera will be fine even in the rain if handled with care.

When you press the Menu button, it brings up the Favorites menu which replaces the Set menu in previous cameras. The Favorites menu is a handy option since you can add any options you choose to this menu. Even better, you can configure a Favorites menu for each of your User Pre-Sets.

The ISO dial has a nice look and feel. And, with all three principle variables for exposure - shutter speed, aperture and ISO - intelligently made visible on the outside of the camera, using the camera has never been more convenient. The dial has options for 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 and 6400 ISO. The auto option is marked by a red A while an M marks the option for Menu. The figures on the dial always override what is set in the Menu.

Although battery life is shorter than in previous cameras, Leica has improved battery life reporting. You start getting warnings from about 5 percent that you are low on battery life. The battery life remaining reduces evenly and the camera works until the battery dies. The INFO screen shows the battery life remaining as a long bar and as a percentage. The bar will be coloured green at 100 percent and will gradually go through yellow to red once you reach 5 percent.

One thing I must say puzzels me

Leica Partnered up with Huawei Android phone. For the M10 there is an iPhone app not compatible with Android. Selling in same-store Android phones AND a camera that cannot use the android app!  This questions logic big time!  And will there be one? In order at least  to restore logic? My Fuji has no problem in connecting with Andorids or IOS ;-)

I have sold my trusted M240 that I will occasionally miss, sold my Leica Q (I never liked, preferred one of my Fujifilm) and kept my Monochrom!

If you're looking for a great camera that has made some drastic improvements, then the Leica M10 is for you. It is designed for easy handling and the upgrades ensure you'll get the best shots.

Interviewed by OnaBags

An old Interview on the OnaBags magazine about me and my photography

Link: https://blog.onabags.com/2016/02/23/photographer-profile-marco-secchi/

Many thanks to OnaBags

​Losinj Island and Boutique Hotel Alhambra

Losinj Island

Located due south of Rijeka in the Kvarner Gulf of the northern Adriatic Sea, Losinj is a hidden gem among Croatia's renowned Mediterranean island retreats. Measuring a mere 20 miles long by 2 miles at its widest point, this compact, idyllic oasis offers travelers a true getaway in every sense of the word. It features sun-drenched seas bordered by spacious, uncrowded beaches dotted with picturesque fishing villages that are reminiscent of a time long past.

Traveling to Losinj takes some effort, which may account for the island's relative obscurity and refreshing isolation from the crowds that flood other destinations during the holiday season. Visitors need to take a car ferry and drive to the island, as there is no international airport.

Once on the island, guests can begin to relax and indulge in the sights and sounds of this seductive place. The warm seaside climate delivers about 2600 hours of sunshine each year, fostering the growth of lush flora and over a thousand varieties of wild herbs that are both beautiful and practical; the herbs serve as natural mosquito repellents, making hiking and cycling the many trails a true delight.

Also commonly known as the 'Island of Vitality', Losinj is known for its wealth of health resorts and retreats that focus on the restorative powers of the natural environment, and the locals have a reputation for looking, and acting, far younger than their actual age. Spas, therapy centers and sports facilities are abundant here, making this a wonderful destination for anyone who wants to indulge in world-class body treatments, herbal therapies and rejuvenation.

The island is filled with unique restaurants and cafes serving fresh, local fish, pasta and area wines, providing guests with the opportunity to discover the tantalizing tastes of the region. Cikat Bay is the main tourist region, where windsurfers enjoy the warm waters of what is said to be the most beautiful bay in all of the Adriatic.

Hotel Alhambra

Located on the shore of Cikat Bay in the town of Mali Losinj, Hotel Alhambra is a five-star hotel housed in a historic, centuries-old Austro-Hungarian villa that has been painstakingly restored and refurbished, creating a one-of-a-kind luxury retreat.

Guests of the Hotel Alhambra stay in one of 51 private rooms and suites, including a limited selection of two-bedroom suites. Most rooms offer a sea view, while all come equipped with a balcony or terrace, en-suite baths with robes and slippers, air conditioning, satellite TV and complimentary Wi-Fi.

The long list of hotel amenities include a private beach for guests, complete with parasols and sun loungers; a heated indoor sea-water pool; 24-hour room service; butler service and a full fitness center. There are both Turkish and Finnish saunas, and expert masseuses are available for in-room massages and body treatments.

In the main area of the hotel, an upscale lounge serves up premium cocktails and wines, while the on-site restaurant features an eclectic menu filled with regional and international offerings prepared by expert chefs.

Hotel Alhambra is just a short half-mile walk away from the shops and cafes of Mali Losinj, providing easy access to the best the island has to offer. A marina is also close by, providing guests with access to scuba diving outfitters, charter boat tours and watercraft rentals.

For those who are seeking a relaxing, sun-filled vacation on a true island paradise that blends old-world charm with modern amenities and service, the Hotel Alhambra on Losinj Island is an ideal choice.

Travelers to Losinj are advised to reserve accommodations in advance, especially if they hope to secure space at one of the island's most sought-after hotels, Hotel Alhambra.

What to see, what to do and where to eat

Mali Losinj

The town was first mentioned in 1398, under the name Malo selo ("small village"). In 1868, it experienced its golden year. There were as many as eleven shipyards, and it became the place with the largest and most developed merchant marine in the Adriatic Sea, even ahead of cities like Rijeka, Trieste and Venice.American author Kenneth Roberts observed that the little town, , seemed to have "produced a hundred seamen for each one produced elsewhere." Writing in 1938, Roberts said there were currently "four hundred sea captains living on Lussinpiccolo, The place is lovely with many restaurants.

Veli Losinj

Veli Lošinj is  a superb little place has 901 inhabitants and a mild climate and caters to tourists. It is located 5 km from the town of Mali Lošinj. It was an important port and fishing centre until the late 19th century. Today it is known as a tourist and aromatherapy centre. The first mentioning of the town dates back to 1398 by the name of "Velo selo". The oldest core of the city was built between the 13th and 14th centuries around the Romanesque church of Sv. Nikola (Saint Nicholas) from 14th century. The town grew along agricultural alignments, not along lais-out city streets. In the 15th century the still-standing defensive tower was built, erected to defend the harbour and the settlement, but also to protect the locals from pirate attacks.

Osor

Very old village with a wonderful feeling

Rovenska

A real hidden gem just off Veli Losinj it is for sure worth a visit!

Restaurants

Fortuna Restaurant and Pizza. Pizza  was really good and fish is fresh and lovely . here

Draga friendly place and good food in Mali Losinj.  here

This post has been partially sponsored I did get media rates during my stay at Alhambra Hotel. For more information, check out my full disclaimer policy.

Esplanade Hotel in Zagreb

Luxury was the first word that came to mind as I walked into Esplanade Hotel Zagreb. From the breath-taking columns that held up the hotel to the old-school elegant exterior to the art décor lobby, I knew that my visit was going to be a great one. This luxurious hotel definitely lived up to all the hype.

First Impressions

I was excited to check-in and get to my room.  First, we got a really warm welcome from the bellboys that took care of my car and luggage. Then the front desk clerk made the whole process quick and easy, all with a smile on her face. Overall, the check-in process was top-notch with superior customer service.

Room

Entering the room I was in awe. I had stayed in many hotels, and this was by far one of the most stunning room that I'd been in. The décor was beautiful and quite unique. Not to mention, the room was huge. Even the bathroom was quite spacious and luxurious with its marble, high-end toiletries, and super soft robe. The view of the city was pretty amazing, too. I was impressed by the complimentary Internet, welcome gifts, chocolate and teas and the post cards.

Breakfast

Zinfandel's Restaurant - Breakfast was really impressive. The selection is magnificent, everything is fresh and prepared using only the best produce. The breakfast room has a lively and buzzing atmosphere. The service was impeccable as my waiter was very attentive.

Spa

I enjoyed my visit to the spa where I had a very relaxing massage and they have a great Gym with state of the art fitness equipment

Amenities

The hotel had quite a few amenities that I did not get a chance to use on this visit, but would love to try them in the future. There was Oleander Terrace and Esplanade 1925 Lounge and Cocktail Bar. 

Overall, I enjoyed my stay at Esplanade Zagreb and would recommend the hotel to anyone planning to visit Croatia. The historic building, the gracious accommodations, the award-winning food, the personalized service, the centralized location, and so much more all make it the most prestigious hotel in Zagreb.

This post has been partially sponsored I did get media rates during my stay at Esplanade Hotel. For more information, check out my full disclaimer policy.

A visit to the city of Zagreb

A trip to Zagreb can be life-changing. It provides one of the very best opportunities to experience the Croatian lifestyle. This city offers a wide range of indoor and outdoor things to do. You could spend your afternoon walking along the beautiful cobblestones of St. Marks or spend some time at an apothecary shop that dates to 1355. Yet much of the city is quite modernized, offering all of the finer things that people enjoy.

What You'll Enjoy in Zagreb

The architecture and the rich history of Zagreb are what dominate the landscape. It is these features that many people come to see especially the 1,000-year old Gornji grad where the Presidential Palace is and the post-World War II Novi Zagreb area which is a much more modern space. Aside from the architecture, you'll find this city has more museums per square foot that virtually any other city. For those that love history, it is a treasure trove of opportunities.

Key sights to see in Zagreb include:

• The Zagreb Cathedral with its twin neo-Gothic spires dominate the square. You'll find the tomb of Cardinal Stepinac here.

• The Dolac Market is the largest and most colorful of all in the area. Enjoy some of the local food here.

• Kamenita vrata or the Stone Gate in upper town is a beautiful 13th century gate with a significant amount of history dating to 1731.

• The Funicular railway is below the Lotscak Tower. It takes to 1888 and is the oldest form of public transport in the city, which at the time was a horse-drawn tram. You can take a ride along the railway and see much of the city up close.

• Strossmayer Gallery of Old Masters and the Museum of Naive Art is an ideal choice for those who want a dazzling display of artifacts.

When visiting Zagreb, you'll find the area is full of culture. Step back two centuries to the many towers and buildings here or enjoy both the traditional and more contemporary meals prepared here at local cafes.

Take the path less traveled by tourists by visiting Maksimir Park and Lake Jarun. You can also visit the nearby towns of Varazdin and Samobor. With numerous restaurants, local coffee shops, various entertainment venues, and dozens of stalls and shops, this is an ideal place to visit if you want a bit of history on the city as well as the region. It virtually comes to life with every cobblestone step you take.

Where to Stay

I stayed at Esplanade Hotel the most luxurious hotel of Zagreb and super Central, see my next post.

There are a lot of rental apartments that simply look fabulous and are really great value for money

Where to Eat

If you are passionate about Strukly...then there is only one place ...La Struk. Superb strukly are freshly served all day. If you are going in winter the place is quite small.....but they are really worth the wait!

• La Štruk

• Skalinska 5, Zagreb 10000, Croatia

• Tel 38514837701

This post has been partially sponsored I did get media rates during my stay at Esplanade Hotel . For more information, check out my full disclaimer policy.

Accommodation in Zagreb

Booking.com

Guides and Book about Zagreb