India: Festivals, Faces and Fantastic Photography
I’ve just returned from nearly five weeks in India, running two tours: the first to the festivals and tribal settlements of Gujarat, and the second, into the heartland of Rajasthan. Both tours took us well off-the-tourist-circuit, into places where local traditions linger and where life is lived authentically and close to the land.
It was my 12th trip to India and every visit peels back layers previously unseen or unexperienced. The tours brought us all close to rural and tribal communities… in most places, we were the only foreigners to be found! The warmth by which we were welcomed, with many invitations to stop for chai and a chat, made these tours especially heartfelt for me and the guests on the tours.
Of course, there was a lot of amazing photography to be had, and much of it close and personal with people and traditions during the festivals and fairs. There were so many highlights, photographically and experientially — being invited into homes to take photos of local families, and then leaving with them bestowing gifts on us; having the village elders show off their archery skills; being up close and personal during the “Gol Feriyo” festival and witnessing village men spinning around on a huge wheel being turned by their friends… the list goes on!
I’ll let the images speak for themselves.
If you’re keen to join me in India for a photography tour full of vibrant life, colour and majesty (think the Taj Mahal, amazing fortresses and palaces, vivid streets, markets and temples, and the wonderful people of India), then have a look at the India Photography Tour that I’ll be running in January 2027.
What I shot with
Sony A7RV with Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 and Tamron 20-40mm f/2.8.
Leica Q2 (28mm)
Editing with Lightroom Classic.
Gujarat
Gujarat lies in Western India, on the shores of the Arabian Sea. It’s the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, and is known for coastline, rich history and unique culture formed by the many tribes who make their home in this State.
Rajasthan
Rajasthan known also as the “Land of Kings,” is a vibrant Northwestern Indian state famed for its majestic forts, rich Rajput history, opulent palaces and traditional folk dances and music.
No Comments