Dubai Photographer Evokes Universal Nostalgia Through Captivating Imagery

Preet Uday: A Unique Perspective on Dubai Through Evocative Photography

Dubai-based photographer Preet Uday is showing a different side to the city with his evocative and minimalist images.
Dubai-based photographer Preet Uday is showing a different side to the city with his evocative and minimalist images.
Originally from Secunderabad in south-central India, Uday captures photos of Dubai that remind him of his childhood.
Originally from Secunderabad in south-central India, Uday captures photos of Dubai that remind him of his childhood.
His photos contrast with the sleek, luxurious and modern imagery that is synonymous with the city.
His photos contrast with the sleek, luxurious and modern imagery that is synonymous with the city.
A portrait photographer by trade, Uday says these kinds of images are a new passion for him.
A portrait photographer by trade, Uday says these kinds of images are a new passion for him.
He has fans around the world who say his photos conjure a sense of nostalgia that transcends geographical location.
He has fans around the world who say his photos conjure a sense of nostalgia that transcends geographical location.
His images are almost dreamlike, with a color palette of blues and citrus tones that is instantly recognizable.
His images are almost dreamlike, with a color palette of blues and citrus tones that is instantly recognizable.
Uday likes to photograph everyday scenes that show the unique character of an area -- although his cropped framing and snapshot approach give the places a certain anonymity.
Uday likes to photograph everyday scenes that show the unique character of an area — although his cropped framing and snapshot approach give the places a certain anonymity.
He also has a fondness for classic cars, which he finds hidden throughout the city among the glossy supercars.
He also has a fondness for classic cars, which he finds hidden throughout the city among the glossy supercars.
As well as vintage cars, Uday loves to shoot beaches. But he shows a different coastline to Dubai's hotel-lined mega-beaches.
As well as vintage cars, Uday loves to shoot beaches. But he shows a different coastline to Dubai’s hotel-lined mega-beaches.
According to Uday, all of his work begins with color. He shoots when he comes across a color palette that he likes; subject and composition come second.
According to Uday, all of his work begins with color. He shoots when he comes across a color palette that he likes; subject and composition come second.
His images may look like they have been shot on film, but they are all taken using a digital camera.
His images may look like they have been shot on film, but they are all taken using a digital camera.
His photos have a particular resonance with Emiratis in Dubai, says Uday, reminding them of the city of years gone by.
His photos have a particular resonance with Emiratis in Dubai, says Uday, reminding them of the city of years gone by.


Back To Top