Born and raised in Istanbul, Gökhan Arer seamlessly bridges the gap between his professional life as a chemical engineer and his artistic passion for street photography. Since picking up a camera in 2015, he has been captivating viewers with his unique ability to find humor and beauty in the everyday life of Istanbul. This article delves into his journey, influences, techniques, and the heart of his creative expression.
Scroll down and inspire yourself. You can check Gökhan’s Instagram account for more amazing photos.
You can find Gökhan Arer on the Web:
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From Chemical Engineer to Photographer
Gökhan Arer’s story begins in 1970, in Istanbul. A graduate of Kadıköy Anatolian High School and Istanbul Technical University, he built a successful career as a chemical engineer. After years of professional achievements, he ventured into entrepreneurship, starting his own company in 2012. Photography was never part of his initial career path, but a chance decision to buy a camera for his son would change his life.
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The Moment of Discovery
In 2015, Arer purchased a camera for his son, sparking his curiosity about photography. Determined to understand this art form, he enrolled in a Photography Workshop course. It was here that he discovered his passion for street photography, thanks to an inspiring instructor. This newfound love quickly turned into an obsession, leading him to spend much of his free time exploring Istanbul with his camera in hand.
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Street Photography: A Passion Ignited
Street photography resonated deeply with Arer, offering a way to connect with the city and its people on an intimate level. Istanbul’s bustling streets provided the perfect canvas. With areas like Sirkeci, Eminönü, and Karaköy—dubbed the “Holy Lands of Photography”—Arer found endless inspiration. These vibrant neighborhoods became the backdrop for his work, filled with diverse characters and unpredictable moments.
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The Art of Capturing the Everyday
At the core of Arer’s photography are the people of Istanbul. His lens focuses on the candid, the unplanned, and the spontaneous. Each photograph tells a story, capturing fleeting moments of humor, irony, or human connection. Arer’s ability to anticipate and immortalize these scenes showcases his deep understanding of his craft and his surroundings.
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Creating Illusions and Perspectives
Arer’s photographs often go beyond documentation. He experiments with composition and perspective to create visual illusions, presenting familiar scenes in unfamiliar ways. This creative approach transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary frames, challenging viewers to see the world differently. For Arer, this process of reimagining reality brings immense joy.
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Humor as a Central Theme
A distinguishing feature of Arer’s work is its humor. His images often highlight the absurd or the ironic, offering a light-hearted escape from life’s stresses. Whether it’s an unexpected juxtaposition or a quirky interaction, Arer’s photographs invite viewers to smile and find joy in the mundane.
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The Philosophy Behind the Lens
For Arer, photography is more than an art—it’s a form of therapy. He describes it as an “antidepressant with side effects of peace and happiness.” This philosophy underpins his work, guiding him to create images that uplift and inspire. Through his lens, Arer seeks not only to document life but to share its beauty and unpredictability with others.
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Balancing Business and Creativity
Despite his demanding professional life, Arer has mastered the art of balance. He dedicates his free time to his passion, seamlessly blending his roles as an entrepreneur, husband, father, and artist. His ability to prioritize creativity alongside responsibility is a testament to his dedication and discipline.
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Conclusion
Gökhan Arer’s journey from engineer to street photographer is a testament to the transformative power of art. Through his humorous and remarkable images, he captures the essence of Istanbul’s streets, inviting viewers to see the world through his lens. His work reminds us that beauty and joy can be found in the simplest moments, waiting to be discovered and celebrated.
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Related Articles:
- Photographer Dimitris Makrygiannakis Captures Fun and Accidental Moments in Street Photography
- Turkish Photographer Esra Burcun Reveals the Beauty of Everyday Life through Street Photography
- Spanish Street Photographer Andrés César Captures Humorous And Incredible Moments Of Daily Life
- Spanish Photographer Antonio E. Ojeda Captures the Soul of the Streets with His Incredible Compositions
English (US) ·