A Photographer's Pera

This is a private photo walk through Pera — one of Istanbul's most visually rich and historically layered neighborhoods. A district that was once the city's most cosmopolitan quarter, Pera was built by Greek, Armenian, Jewish, Levantine communities — an identity still visible in its streets, buildings and hidden courtyards. You start at Taksim Square and follow Istiklal Street before moving into passages, courtyards and back streets where most visitors don't go. You stop at Istanbul's oldest confectioner for lokum before heading into Pera proper. Along the route, iconic landmarks — Çiçek Pasajı arcade, Pera Palace Hotel where Agatha Christie stayed while working on Murder on the Orient Express — sit alongside lesser-known corners like Rumeli Han and Grand Hôtel de Londres. The walk ends at Kamondo Stairs — the 1870s Neo-Baroque, Art Nouveau stairs built by Sephardic Jewish banker Abraham Camondo — and SALT Galata Library, with a ride on Istanbul's historic tram for the final stretch.

The route moves through both the celebrated and the overlooked sides of Pera, with enough time to photograph the architectural details, the light and shadows, and the human story behind each place. Noémie has spent over a decade photographing Istanbul, and her familiarity with the city's light, rhythms and lesser-known corners shapes this experience. She knows which archway or side street catches the afternoon light, which courtyard or viewpoint is worth the detour, and how to help you — whether novice or experienced — find your own angle and story on what you're seeing. This walk is designed for you to leave with photos you're genuinely proud of — not the generic shots that appear in every guidebook, but images shaped by your own attention. There are natural pauses along the way, including a stop for lokum — the traditional Turkish confection flavored with rosewater, citrus or nuts — giving you time to slow down, exchange observations, and sharpen your eye for depth and detail.

Noémie Deveaux is a French photographer and photography teacher who has lived in Istanbul since 2013. Alongside portrait and family photography, she runs photo workshops focused on helping people slow down and compose with intention. Her approach is practical, calm, and attuned to what each participant is trying to see. She teaches both phone and camera photography, adjusts to any level, and is as comfortable helping someone catch a first strong composition as she is working with someone who already has an eye. She opens doors to discover not only new locations, but also new perspectives and creative possibilities.

Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones and hills — Pera has both. Dress for the weather. Bring your best camera, or your phone if that's what you shoot on — Noémie can help you bring out the best in either.