A Turkish Tale of Love: Engagement Story

Sydney is a city celebrated for its rich cultural diversity, with each community adding its own vibrant colors to the collective tapestry. Among these, the Turkish community stands out for preserving their traditions and celebrating them with pride.

İsteme ceremony

During my early days of exploring photography, I had the privilege of documenting an İsteme ceremony right here in Sydney — a memorable experience that deepened my appreciation for cultural storytelling through the lens.

The word İsteme in Turkish translates to "asking" or "requesting," encapsulating the essence of this cherished engagement ceremony. Traditionally, the groom’s family visits the bride’s home to formally request her hand in marriage and seek her family’s blessing. This meaningful act symbolises the merging of two families, honouring customs passed down through generations.

One of the most delightful moments of the İsteme ceremony is the serving of Turkish coffee, prepared by the bride-to-be as a gesture of warmth and hospitality. A playful twist accompanies this tradition: the groom’s cup is sometimes mixed with salt or spices, testing his patience and humour. His reaction is seen as a reflection of his temperament and a lighthearted reminder that marriage is not always sweet. Needless to say, the groom on this occasion passed the test with flying colours!

Young and Old

The event overflowed with joy and laughter, as guests danced, children played freely, sharing jokes and inventing their own ways to join the fun. It was a heartwarming reminder that joy knows no bounds of age or culture.

A particularly amusing highlight came when some of the children eagerly took on the role of artistic directors. With infectious enthusiasm, they posed, suggested angles, and even offered instructions for capturing their “best sides.” Their creativity and excitement added a touch of spontaneity and became some of my favorite moments to photograph. These candid interactions captured the essence of the celebration’s lively and playful spirit.

For me, photographing events like the İsteme ceremony is about more than composing beautiful images; it’s about witnessing and preserving the cultural richness and heartfelt connections. Through my lens, I aim to tell stories that celebrate not just moments but the enduring legacies they represent.