23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
Step into light

One day, while out photographing Istanbul’s public transport stops, I was passing between metro stations and noticed people getting off a bus from a bridge, framed by a striking light that split the road in two. This light reminded me of the transition from darkness to brightness, and seemed to symbolize troubled souls finding peace.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 07.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Istanbul, Türkiye
Camera: ILCE-7M3
Copyright: © Ali Budak