Rabat, Morocco—a city where history, culture, and the Atlantic coastline blend seamlessly. The capital of Morocco offers a rich mix of modern life and traditional charm, making it an ideal destination for travellers and photographers alike. With its winding medina streets, expansive coastline, and vibrant street life, Rabat presents endless opportunities for capturing candid, raw moments.
Capturing Rabat Through Candid Photography
Candid photography thrives in places like Rabat, where life unfolds naturally in the streets, by the sea, and within the souks. In this particular shot, taken along the rugged coastline near Rabat, a couple sits in quiet embrace, framed beautifully by the natural rock formations behind. The land itself acts as a frame, directing the eye toward the couple while adding depth to the composition. In the background, a fisherman perches on a jutting rock, casting his line into the sea—a poetic contrast between solitude and companionship.
The Shot: Technical Breakdown
Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark II
Lens: EF 85mm f/1.8 USM
Settings: ƒ/9.0 | 85.0mm | 1/200 sec | ISO 160
The choice of the 85mm lens allowed for a natural compression of the scene, bringing both the couple and the fisherman into a cohesive composition. The ƒ/9 aperture ensured that enough detail remained in both foreground and background without distracting from the main subjects. The overcast lighting softened shadows, making the image feel intimate yet expansive.
Street Style and Culture in North Africa
Morocco is a cultural crossroads, where tradition meets modernity. In the streets, vibrant colors, flowing fabrics, and modest yet stylish outfits define the unique street fashion. In this shot, the woman’s peach-coloured headscarf subtly contrasts with the muted tones of the surroundings, drawing attention to the couple without overpowering the composition.
Framing in Photography
Framing is a fundamental element in photography, and this image demonstrates its power. The rock formation naturally cradles the couple within the frame, creating a sense of intimacy. Meanwhile, the fisherman in the background adds an additional layer of storytelling, balancing the image both compositionally and thematically. Here is a photography blog I wrote about framing in photography, especially the compositional technique of a frame within a frame.
The Peaceful Coastline of Rabat
Rabat’s coastline offers a sense of tranquility that contrasts with the city’s bustling medina. The Atlantic Ocean crashes against the rugged cliffs, creating a dynamic backdrop for storytelling. Whether it’s couples enjoying the view, solitary fishermen waiting for a catch, or locals gathering along the shore, the coast serves as a place of reflection, connection, and everyday life.
This image, "Lovers by the Sea, Morocco," encapsulates the essence of travel photography—seeking out the quiet, in-between moments that tell a deeper story. It’s a testament to Morocco’s charm, its people, and the way life seamlessly blends with nature along the shores of North Africa.
Explore More Moroccan Travel Photography
More of my Moroccan travel photography can be viewed on my Flickr page. These images are also available for purchase via my Getty Images portfolio, or reach out directly.
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