Light is the main thing
Kochi's best light comes at sunrise and in the hour before sunset, when the harbour and old buildings glow. Midday sun is flat and harsh, so use that time to rest, eat or visit a museum.
Check sunrise and sunset times before you plan, and arrive a little early to find your spot.
The fishing nets
The Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi are among the city's best-known sights. They are working tools, so respect the fishermen's space and ask before you photograph them. A small tip or a purchase from the fish stalls is a polite thanks.
Stay behind any barriers and mind your footing near the water. Tide and wind change the scene from day to day.
Lanes and old buildings
The lanes of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry have colonial houses, small cafes and murals. Walk slowly and look up, since many details sit above eye level.
Keep your voice low near homes, and do not block doorways. Some buildings are private, so ask before entering.
Ask before you photograph people
People are part of the street, but they are not props. Ask first, show them the image if they like, and accept a no with a smile. Be especially careful around religious sites and children.
A short chat often leads to a better picture than a quick snap.
Protect your gear
Salt air, humidity and sudden rain can harm cameras. Carry a rain cover, a soft cloth and a dry bag. Keep your bag zipped and close in crowded areas.
Back up your photos each evening, and keep your equipment simple so you can move easily.
Go slowly and shoot less
The best Kochi photos come from patience. Pick two or three places, return at a different hour and let the day unfold.
Leave time to put the camera down and simply enjoy the harbour.
Pick the right month
The cooler months, from roughly November to February, are popular with visitors, and the light can be lovely. The monsoon brings dramatic skies and green scenery, but also heavy rain and cloud. Choose the season that suits the pictures you want.
Check the weather a few days before you go, and keep a flexible schedule for rain.
Beyond the nets
Besides the fishing nets, look for the spice warehouses in Mattancherry, the quiet churchyards, small art spaces and the ferry crossings. Each gives a different kind of picture.
Always ask permission before you enter a working warehouse or a place of worship, and follow any photography rules posted at the entrance.
Be kind to the place
Kochi's old streets are lived in, and a steady stream of visitors can feel heavy for residents. Keep to public areas, avoid blocking narrow lanes with tripods and use a quiet voice.
Buy something from a local stall, say thanks and leave. Good photographs are best made with the goodwill of the people around you.
A simple day plan
Start at the fishing nets at sunrise, then breakfast in a cafe and a walk through the lanes of Fort Kochi. Rest at midday, visit Mattancherry in the afternoon and return to the waterfront for sunset.
Charge your batteries the night before, and carry a spare memory card. Keep the plan short, and let a good scene pull you into an extra hour.
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