By Raghav | |
What I Learned Photographing Five Unique Temples in June
On June 3rd, 2026, I found myself at the base of the iconic Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, ready to embark on a unique photographic journey. As I adjusted my Nikon Z6, I couldn’t help but think about the five distinct temples I was set to shoot this month. Each one offered its own story, character, and challenges, which tested my skills and taught me invaluable lessons. Here’s what I learned through these experiences.
1. Kapaleeshwarar Temple: The Charm of Mylapore
The Kapaleeshwarar Temple has always been a favorite of mine, both for its architectural beauty and the vibrant atmosphere that surrounds it. On that humid morning, the temple was bustling with devotees and tourists alike. I had my 24-70mm f/2.8 lens mounted, and I decided to capture the colorful gopuram (tower) against the clear blue sky.
As I positioned myself to get a wide shot, I noticed the play of light on the intricate carvings. I set my aperture to f/8 to ensure sharpness throughout the frame. However, in my eagerness, I forgot to check my ISO, which was still set at 1600 from a previous shoot. The images turned out grainier than I wanted, a mistake I learned to double-check in future shoots.
2. The Serene Atmosphere of the Vadapalani Murugan Temple
Just a week later, on June 10th, I ventured to the Vadapalani Murugan Temple, a place known for its tranquil ambiance amidst the chaos of the city. I arrived early in the morning, around 6 AM, when the temple was just waking up. The soft morning light streaming through the trees created a magical atmosphere that I wanted to capture.
I switched to my 85mm f/1.8 lens for some portrait shots of devotees in prayer. I set my camera to aperture priority mode with an f-stop of 1.8 to create a beautiful bokeh effect, isolating my subjects against the temple backdrop. The results were stunning, and I could feel the emotions of devotion in each image. The lesson here was to embrace the early mornings; the soft light at that time is unparalleled.
3. Exploring the Unique Architecture of the Parakala Mutt
On June 12th, I decided to visit the Parakala Mutt in Mysuru, a temple known for its unique architectural style. Unlike the typical South Indian temples, this one showcased a blend of different influences. Armed with my drone, I aimed to capture the layout of the temple from above. I arrived at around 4 PM, just in time for the golden hour.
After getting the necessary permissions for flying the drone, I took off and was able to capture breathtaking aerial shots. I used a shutter speed of 1/250s to stabilize the drone while keeping the ISO low at 100. The resulting images were crisp and vibrant. This experience taught me the importance of planning ahead and ensuring that you have all permissions sorted out before a shoot.
4. Capturing the Details at the Brihadeeswarar Temple
On June 15th, I traveled to Thanjavur to photograph the magnificent Brihadeeswarar Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple is a treasure trove of intricate sculptures and carvings. I decided to focus on the details, using my macro lens to capture the craftsmanship that often gets overlooked. I spent hours moving around the temple, identifying interesting patterns and textures.
However, while setting up my shots, I realized that I had forgotten my tripod, which made it challenging to stabilize my camera for the close-up shots. I had to improvise by using my camera bag as a makeshift stabilizer, which was less than ideal. This taught me the importance of having a checklist before heading out for a shoot, especially in a complex setting like this.
5. The Spiritual Vibes of the Kanyakumari Temple
Finally, on June 16th, I wrapped up my temple series with a visit to the Kanyakumari Temple. This temple, situated at the southern tip of India, offers a stunning view of the sunset over the ocean. I arrived at around 5 PM to set up my equipment, including my wide-angle lens. I knew that capturing the sunset would be key, so I adjusted my settings to f/11 for depth of field and a shutter speed of 1/60s to manage the light.
As the sun began to dip below the horizon, I felt a sense of peace wash over me, and the colors exploded in the sky. It was one of those moments when everything felt right. The images I captured were vibrant and full of life, reminding me of why I love photography — those fleeting moments of beauty.
Mistakes I Made
Reflecting on these experiences, there are a few mistakes that stand out, each offering a valuable lesson:
- Not Checking ISO: At Kapaleeshwarar Temple, I shot with a high ISO without realizing it, resulting in grainy images. Now, I make it a habit to check my settings each time I change locations.
- Forgetting the Tripod: My trip to Brihadeeswarar Temple was hindered by my lack of a tripod for macro shots. A checklist is now my best friend before heading out.
- Overlooking Permissions: At Parakala Mutt, I was lucky to gain drone access, but this taught me to always confirm permissions in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Chennai Location Tips for Temple Photography
Here are some insider tips for shooting temples in Chennai and nearby:
Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Parking can be a challenge during peak hours, so I recommend arriving early. The best time for photography is early morning when the light is soft, and the crowds are smaller.
Vadapalani Murugan Temple
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. If possible, try to visit during the morning aarti (prayer ritual) for vibrant shots of the ceremonies taking place. Getting a good spot can be tricky, so plan ahead.
Getting Permission for Drones
Always check local regulations regarding drone usage in temple areas. Most temples require prior permission before flying, so reach out to their management a few days in advance.
Final Thoughts
Photographing temples in Tamil Nadu is not just about capturing stunning images; it’s about immersing yourself in the culture and spirituality of these sacred spaces. Every temple has its own story, and I feel honored to share them through my lens. Each of the five temples I visited in June taught me something new — about light, perspective, and the importance of preparation.
As I look back, I realize that the challenges I faced made the successful captures even more rewarding. Always remember, every mistake is a lesson in disguise. Happy shooting!
What is the best time to photograph temples in Chennai?
The best time to photograph temples in Chennai is early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and the crowds are smaller. This allows for better compositions and a more serene atmosphere.
Do I need permission to photograph inside temples?
Yes, many temples require permission for photography, especially if you’re using professional equipment. It’s best to check with the temple authorities beforehand.
What gear do you recommend for temple photography?
I recommend a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens, like a 24-70mm, and a fast prime lens like an 85mm for portraits. A tripod is also essential for low-light situations.
About the Author: I’m Raghav, a professional photographer based in Chennai, specializing in wedding, portrait, and travel photography for over 8 years. My passion lies in capturing the essence of Tamil Nadu’s rich culture through my lens.
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