Kaaba in Mecca
by bongee

Comment by tnun:
Conflicted feelings viewing this. On the one hand I've always been very curious, on the other hand I strongly suspect you are not supposed to photograph this. Would like to know.

Kaaba in Mecca
by bongee

Comment by ahmedi:
Reaching this point is truly a triumph in ones lifetime, however from a photographic viewpoint this image lacks some luster.

Kaaba in Mecca
by bongee

Comment by JeffDay:
the vignetting really hurts this image

Kaaba in Mecca
by bongee

Comment by violinist123:
What's the triumph? Not getting robbed on the way or not getting trampled while walking in circles? Assuming this actually meets the challenge in some culturally specific way that I neither understand nor care about, the shot itself could use some work. The vignetting is over the top (and I didn't even think legal in basic) and the blow out spot lights really dominate the shot, pulling the eye away from the interesting bits down below.

Kaaba in Mecca
by bongee

Comment by Bear_Music:
Now THAT is fascinating. You were actually there? I hope voters see this as "successful pilgrimage", because to a Muslim this is one of life's major triumphs, right? I didn't even know you were allowed to photograph there; is that also a "triumph" for the photographer?

Anyway, compelling image.

Kaaba in Mecca
by bongee

Comment by jjstager2:
A fascinating photo - though I wish it were in better focus. How does this say "Triumph?"

Kaaba in Mecca
by bongee

Comment by Retroesque:
Oh my gosh how wonderful to be in Mecca - I've longed to photograph there, but doubt I'll make it - Hope you are enjoying it.

Kaaba in Mecca
by bongee

Comment by jblaylockrayner:
Nice capture - Like the POV and the composition - Let down on the technical front as the image seems a little soft and there needs some more contrast as most of the whites are grey looking. Maybe pushing the challenge though?

Kaaba in Mecca
by bongee

Comment by levyj413:
I get the connection to triumph, but this shot needs some help. It's blurry, the colors are washed out, and the lights are featureless white blobs. Also, the severe darkening of the corners distracts me. It also leaved me wondering whether you were allowed to take this picture.

thinking about you comforts me
by bongee

Comment by sherpet:
Sweet...