iPhone Friday: Tutankhamen highlight

As I have returned from my trip to Egypt, there will be much to share! First of all, it was another amazing experience in this ancient country, rich in history and culture, which continually captivates and inspires me to return once again at a future date! From exploring the magnificent pyramids that have stood the test of time to wandering through the bustling markets filled with vibrant colors and scents, every moment was a unique adventure. There are numerous photos to be edited, capturing both the breathtaking landscapes and the friendly faces of the locals, posts to be written that will convey the stories of my journey, and work to be caught up on as I reflect on this incredible experience and plan for future travels!

Here’s a quick iPhone snapshot from my visit to the Grand Egyptian Museum…

When I last visited the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), the Tutankhamun display had not yet been relocated to its impressive new home. However, my wife and I were fortunate enough to see the iconic mask in its previous museum near Tahrir Square. This experience allowed us a glimpse of the extraordinary craftsmanship that surrounds this historical artifact. The anticipation of viewing it in the GEM, which promised to be a marvel in itself, only added to our excitement.

The newly created exhibit space for the Tutankhamun collection in the GEM is nothing short of spectacular. The architectural design and thoughtful arrangement of the displays truly enhance the experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves deeply in the ancient world. The lighting is particularly noteworthy; it highlights the intricate details of the artifacts while creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that draws you in from the moment you step into the exhibit. Each piece tells a story, and the thoughtful curation makes it easy to appreciate the cultural significance of these relics.

During my visit, I managed to capture an iPhone shot of the famous mask, which turned out pretty well. The way the mask is presented in the museum is indeed out of this world, with its vibrant colors and intricate details standing out brilliantly against the backdrop of the exhibit. It’s a moment that instills a sense of awe and reverence for the ancient Egyptian civilization and its monumental achievements.

When you plan your visit to the GEM, I have one crucial word of caution: remember to breathe. The awe-inspiring sights are likely to take your breath away as you navigate through the vast halls filled with relics of the past. Furthermore, it’s wise to select a specific part of the museum that you wish to explore on the day of your visit. Due to the extensive collection, it’s impossible to see everything in a single day. Planning your time and focusing on certain exhibits will allow you to fully appreciate the depth and richness of this unparalleled museum experience. Whether you choose to delve into the art, the history, or the artifacts, the GEM truly offers something extraordinary for every visitor.

Author: jansenphoto

A Fresh Perspective Photography is more than just a vehicle for capturing the world around me; it provides me with a palette and a set of brushes, with which I paint not only what I see, but also look to express the emotions that are evoked by the scene in front of me in that moment. Growing up in the Netherlands exposed me to a wide cross-section of visual arts that laid the foundation of my photographic view of all that surrounds me. Early influences were the Dutch Masters of the 17th century, to whom I was introduced by my grandfather during museum explorations; favorites among them are the scenes of quotidian life depicted by Jan Steen and Frans Hals and the vivid landscapes of Jacob van Ruisdael. My classical high school education was supplemented by the Boijmans Van Beuningen museum, where I spent many a lunch hour exploring its great collection. Here I was introduced to surrealism with a particular love for the approach taken by Salvador Dali; Dali also rekindled my appreciation for the work of Hieronymus Bosch, who often showed the folly of us mortals. Universal Connections My approach to any photographic subject is to look for understanding first; in this I look to establish either a connection between the viewer and the subject or capture the connection of the subject with its surroundings. The captured image then aims to portray this connection from a perspective that is part of my personal interpretation. This interpretation is often a form of externalized introspection, which may alternately display the connection of isolated beings and items with their environment or highlight the whimsy of the profound world, in which we find ourselves. The universe is full of connections, many of which are waiting to be discovered; part of my journey as a photographer is to document these connections. Any assignment, be it an event, a product shoot or a portrait session is always approached through communication with the client; this is where the first connection is established. Ideas are exchanged and a collaborative plan of action forms, ultimately resulting in a set of images that aim to exceed the expectations of each client. And, lest we forget, it is important to have fun while practicing the serious business of photography! View all posts by jansenphoto