By Raghav | | June 18, 2026

What I Learned from 30 Photos in Chennai This June

On June 5th, 2026, I found myself wandering through the vibrant lanes of Mylapore with my Canon EOS R5, determined to capture the essence of Chennai’s culture before the monsoon rains poured down. It was one of those days where the light danced just right, illuminating the colorful shops and bustling crowds. As I went about my shoot, I realized that each photo I snapped taught me something new about the intricacies of photography, especially in a city like Chennai. This blog post will take you through my experiences, the lessons I learned, and some practical tips for capturing the spirit of Chennai.

1. The Unexpected Joy of Street Photography

On June 10th, while exploring the streets of Triplicane, I came across a local tea stall where a group of elderly men were animatedly discussing politics over steaming cups of chai. I had my 50mm f/1.2 lens mounted, and as I approached, I hesitated, fearing that my presence might disrupt their conversation. But then, I remembered a lesson I learned at a workshop years ago: the best shots often come from immersing oneself in the scene.

With a polite nod, I asked if I could take their photo. To my surprise, they welcomed me with open arms, joking and posing for the camera. I captured a beautiful moment: a candid shot of them laughing, the steam rising from their cups creating an ethereal aura. The settings were simple—ISO 200, f/1.2, and a shutter speed of 1/250s. The outcome was stunning, with a beautiful bokeh effect framing their faces. This taught me that street photography isn’t just about capturing moments; it’s about connecting with people and sharing their stories.

2. The Importance of Planning for Lighting

On June 15th, I ventured to the majestic Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, a favorite spot that never fails to offer breathtaking visuals. This time, however, I made a rookie error. Arriving at noon, the harsh midday sun cast stark shadows on the intricate carvings of the temple. I had anticipated the temple’s beauty but hadn’t planned for the lighting conditions.

Frustrated, I decided to wait it out, sitting on a nearby bench and observing the scene unfold. I noticed how the shadows shifted as the sun began to set. By late afternoon, the golden light kissed the temple, bringing out the vibrant colors of the gopuram (tower). I readjusted my settings to ISO 100, f/8, and 1/60s to capture the temple in its full glory. This taught me that patience and understanding the sun’s trajectory are crucial for achieving the best results.

3. Embracing the Monsoon Mood

June in Chennai means the arrival of the monsoon, and on June 18th, as the first drops began to fall, I grabbed my gear and headed to Marina Beach. The dark, brooding clouds provided a dramatic backdrop, perfect for moody seascapes. I decided to experiment with long exposure photography, hoping to capture the movement of the waves.

Using my ND filter, I set my Canon EOS R5 to ISO 50, f/16, and a shutter speed of 10 seconds. The result was mesmerizing; the waves appeared soft and silky against the jagged rocks. I was reminded that embracing the unpredictable nature of the weather can lead to some of the most magical photographs. It’s all about adapting and being ready for what comes your way.

Mistakes I Made

Looking back on these experiences, I can pinpoint some mistakes that taught me valuable lessons:

1. Overlooking Gear Preparation

On June 12th, I decided to shoot a wedding in T. Nagar. In the rush to leave, I forgot to charge my backup batteries. Halfway through the ceremony, my main battery died, and I was left scrambling to find a power source. Since then, I’ve made it a practice to double-check my gear the night before any shoot, ensuring that everything is charged, cleaned, and packed properly.

2. Ignoring Composition

During a portrait session on June 14th at the serene Semmozhi Poonga, I was so focused on the subject that I didn’t consider the background. The busy park created distractions in the frame. After reviewing the images later, I realized the importance of scouting locations and considering all elements within the frame. Now, I always take a moment to observe the surroundings before pressing the shutter.

3. Skipping Post-Processing

After a long day of shooting on June 16th, I rushed through my editing, thinking that I could save time. The colors were off, and the images lacked the punch I desired. I learned that taking the time to edit properly can transform an average shot into a stunning one. I now use Adobe Lightroom for color correction and detail enhancement, ensuring my final images reflect my vision accurately.

Location Guide: Best Spots to Shoot in Chennai

1. Kapaleeshwarar Temple

Located in Mylapore, this temple is a treasure trove of vibrant colors and intricate architecture. Best to visit early in the morning (7 AM – 9 AM) for softer light and fewer crowds. Parking can be tricky, so opt for nearby streets where you can find space. Remember to seek permission if you’re planning to use a tripod.

2. Marina Beach

Marina Beach is iconic, offering stunning sunrise and sunset views. Arrive at least an hour before sunrise or sunset for the best light. The beach is usually crowded, so be mindful of your surroundings. I recommend using a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the shoreline. Parking is available along the beach road, but arrive early to secure a spot.

3. Semmozhi Poonga

This botanical garden in the heart of Chennai is perfect for portraits and nature shots. The best light is during the golden hour, either early morning or late afternoon. The park is well-maintained, but there may be a small entry fee. I love using my 85mm lens here for close-up portraits amidst the lush greenery.

Capturing the Heart of Chennai

As I look back on my photos from June, I realize that each shot is not just a memory frozen in time; it’s a lesson learned, a connection made, and a story shared. Whether it’s the laughter of the men at the tea stall or the serene beauty of the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, Chennai offers endless opportunities for photographers to explore and express their creativity. Remember, each photograph you take is a piece of your journey—embrace it, learn from it, and, most importantly, enjoy the process.

With over 8 years of experience in wedding, portrait, and travel photography in Chennai, I’m passionate about capturing the essence of life through my lens. My journey has taken me across Tamil Nadu, and I love sharing my knowledge to help others tell their stories through photography.