10 Cities Around the World Captured "in a Split Second"

Witnessing the diverse life of a bustling metropolis can be a truly inspiring pastime. The most interesting spots, however, are those through which the full spectrum of the city’s inhabitants might pass in just a few moments. Sometimes you can learn more about a place by standing still for a while than by hurrying from sight to sight—it’s that unique blend of a city’s life that gives it a particular fingerprint beyond the superficial image of its skyline, local landmark, or famous delicacy.

Inspired by the concept, the crew at Big Domain decided to create a series of city postcards that truly reflect ‘a slice of life’ in ten of our most celebrated cities, using multiple exposure photography to express each location’s variety in a single snapshot.

1. New York City (USA)

New York is the city’s city: the model for Batman’s Gotham City, the city that never sleeps, perhaps the place with America’s highest highs and lowest lows. Grab a yellow taxi to Times Square for shopping and entertainment, or take your camera and hit the Greenwich Village coffee shops for an art expedition. You’ve seen a million New York Cities in the movies—which one will you visit today?

2. Istanbul (Turkey)

Equally Asian and European, Istanbul is a true cultural portal between the timeless tradition and sophisticated modern life of both occident and orient. Historic Byzantine architecture and the routine of daily Islamic life intersect at the crossroads of Eastern Europe, where the food is as rich and colourful as the experience you’ll have bartering at the bazaar.

3. Tokyo (Japan)

Those who’ve never visited Tokyo tend to be cursed with a fixed idea of the city as a bustling neon office town that exists pretty much as a time-lapse video. In fact, the most familiar images of Tokyo tend to come from just one small area near the centre of the city. Take a walk through its surrounding districts and you’ll find a mellow and endlessly fascinating culture waiting to greet you.

4. Moscow (Russia)

Woolly hats and the distinctive, candy-shaped domes of Russian Orthodox churches dominate the upper half of Moscow’s cross-section; but find your way indoors and you will be entertained by the greatest dancers and athletes in the world—from the ballet to the Bolshoi Circus.

5. Mexico City (Mexico)

With a population of 9 million and a chaotic culture that's as inspiring as it is intimidating, no snapshot of Mexico City is going to contain much empty space! If you love cities, the everyday life of Mexico’s capital has it all, from the cantinas where locals gather to shoot the breeze to historic museums and street art.

6. Cairo (Egypt)

Looks warm, doesn’t it? Of course, the rich and long history of Egypt’s capital is impossible to condense into a single image. But you’re never far from the invigorating trade life of modern Egyptians nor the historic Great Pyramid and Sphinx. Check out Zamalek’s 187m Cairo Tower for another singular view of the whole city.

7. Hong Kong (China)

The doorway to China is an exotic melee of tradition, innovation, and the proudly-worn badges of Hong Kong’s intense 20^th century journey. They say the city was a big influence on the design of Blade Runner’s futuristic LA—but you’ll find the people here a little more real and friendly if you take the time to listen.

8. Sydney (Australia)

From the laidback beach life to black tie at the opera, Sydney has it all—with a hot climate that’s fostered a super-cool culture. Take it easy, and let Sydney take you in with its vibe.

9. Delhi (India)

 

The beating heart of India can be overwhelming for the weak of spirit—but for those ready to follow their nose to the unique eating experiences, blessed temples and chaotic street scenes, everything you want from a city break can be found in Delhi.

10. London (England)

There’s a reason people still make their way across the world to visit or live in this grey and rain-soaked city: it’s the birthplace of the modern world. From historical buildings and cutting-edge cultural events to the experience of London’s iconic transport systems, pubs, and cafes, you’ll soon forget about the weather. And when the sun does come out, you’ll find you’re actually never far away from a green space or park, too.

This article was originally published here.