India: A Sensory Adventure
India will overwhelm your senses with its sights, sounds, and smells, and that is exactly what makes it such an unforgettable experience. I traveled there in September of 2014 to document the work being done by Eagle Projects International, and the trip left a lasting mark on me both as a photographer and as a person. I spent time in New Delhi and Agra as a tourist before heading on to Ahmedabad to photograph medical clinics and pastor training. Looking back, this journey was one of the most meaningful and visually rich experiences I have ever had behind the camera.
First Impressions of Delhi
My first few days were spent exploring New Delhi. I wandered through busy streets, photographed historic architecture, and tried my best to take in the steady flow of movement that seems to pulse through every corner of the city. India has a way of pulling you right into its rhythm. Tuk tuks buzzed by, vendors called out from market stalls, and every direction offered a new scene to capture. It was overwhelming at times, but in the best way possible for a photographer. There is something interesting to photograph everywhere you look.
The Taj Mahal in Person
Nothing, however, compared to seeing the Taj Mahal. It had been on my list of must-see places for years, but standing in front of it felt almost surreal. The craftsmanship and artistry that went into creating it were far beyond what I expected. The symmetry, the detail in the marble, the way the light played across the surface made it one of the most awe-inspiring places I have ever photographed. If you find yourself anywhere near Agra, I cannot recommend seeing it in person enough.
Arriving in Ahmedabad
After my time as a tourist, I flew to Ahmedabad, a bustling city of about 5.8 million people that many travelers never visit. I loved riding through the streets in auto rickshaws and watching the world pass by. One minute I would see elephants or camels on the road, and the next I would be walking through a flower market overflowing with color. The city felt alive in a way that made it both exciting and endlessly photogenic.
Portraits That Tell a Story
As a photographer, I take a lot of pride in my portraits, and India offered endless opportunities to capture faces full of personality and stories. The colors, textures, and cast of characters were almost overwhelming because I wanted to photograph everything I saw. It pushed me creatively in a way that few places ever have. Looking back, it was one of my most successful photography trips and it deepened my appreciation for the power of portrait work.
Photographing the Clinics and the Slums
Most of my work in Ahmedabad focused on documenting medical clinics and pastor training programs. The day that impacted me most was the day we spent photographing in the slums. There was a nearby gypsy camp and the people there had so much character and warmth. Their living conditions were incredibly basic and it is hard to imagine what daily life is like in that environment, yet they greeted us with smiles. It was a powerful reminder that happiness is not tied to what we own. They were welcoming, joyful, and more than willing to let me photograph them. It was one of the most memorable days I have ever had with a camera in my hand.
A Trip I Hope to Repeat
India challenged me, inspired me, and filled my camera with moments I will never forget. The people, the colors, the chaos, and the kindness all blended together into an experience that changed the way I see the world. I hope I will get the chance to return someday and continue the story that started on this incredible trip. If you would like to learn how to capture meaningful travel images of your own, you can explore my travel photography coaching or join one of my upcoming photo workshops and tours. I would love to help you grow your skills and tell your own stories through the lens.