Photographer's Dream: Capturing the Colors and Contrasts of Casablanca

Casablanca's architectural landscape reads like a visual history book, with the Hassan II Mosque as its most magnificent chapter. Rising majestically from the Atlantic coastline, this colossal structure demands a wide-angle approach to capture its grandeur. I arrived just before sunset, when the golden hour bathes its intricate tilework and towering minaret in warm light, creating a photographer's dream scenario.

But the real surprise for many photographers is Casablanca's treasure trove of Art Deco buildings. The city experienced a construction boom in the 1930s, leaving behind a legacy of geometric facades, ornate detailing, and stunning entryways in the downtown area. For these shots, I relied on my color calibration tool to ensure I captured the subtle pastel hues and contrasts accurately.

The juxtaposition opportunities are endless: ancient Islamic designs against French colonial aesthetics, weathered traditional buildings beside gleaming modern structures. My favorite technique was to frame newer elements through traditional Moroccan archways, creating a visual dialogue between eras.

While not as famous as Fez or Marrakech's ancient quarters, Casablanca's old medina offers a more authentic, less tourist-oriented experience for street photographers. The narrow passageways form natural frames, while the interplay of light and shadow creates dramatic compositions throughout the day.

I found the best approach was to arrive early, around 8-9am, when locals were setting up their shops and the soft morning light penetrated the alleyways. My light meter proved invaluable here, as the contrast between bright sunlit areas and shadowy corridors can trick even the best camera meters.

Street photography ethics are particularly important here. I always asked permission before photographing people up close, using a friendly 'Mumkin sura?' (May I take a photo?). A simple nod and smile often works too. Having small prints from a portable printer to give to subjects created wonderful connections and opened doors to more intimate photographic opportunities.

The medina's color palette shifts throughout the day, from cool blue shadows in the morning to warm golden tones by late afternoon. This makes it worth revisiting the same spots at different times to capture the changing mood.

Casablanca's relationship with the Atlantic Ocean creates a fascinating visual narrative along its Corniche (seafront boulevard). The contrast between the powerful natural elements and urban development provides endless photographic opportunities, particularly during the dramatic spring weather patterns.

I dedicated two golden hours (one sunrise, one sunset) to capturing the iconic El Hank Lighthouse against the churning Atlantic waves. For these coastal shoots, my lens cleaning kit became my most essential accessory, as the salt spray required frequent lens maintenance.

The Corniche also showcases Casablanca's social dynamics through environmental portraiture. From fishermen mending nets to affluent locals dining at beachfront cafés, the socioeconomic spectrum of the city unfolds along this stretch. I found that my weatherproof camera bag was perfect for these sessions, allowing me to quickly access different lenses while protecting my gear from sudden spring showers and sea spray.

For a unique perspective, I recommend booking a sunset drink at one of the rooftop bars along the Corniche. The Skybar at the Four Seasons offers particularly spectacular elevated views of where the city meets the sea, though you'll need to call ahead for a reservation.

Beyond the architectural icons, Casablanca's soul lives in its markets, cafés, and street scenes. The Central Market (Marché Central) on Mohamed V Boulevard offers a sensory feast, with its art deco structure housing a kaleidoscope of produce, seafood, and spices. I arrived mid-morning when the light streams through the open-air sections, illuminating the vibrant displays.

For authentic documentary photography, I ventured into the Habous Quarter, where traditional Moroccan life continues relatively unchanged. The light here is challenging—harsh midday sun creates deep shadows in narrow streets. I used my reflector to fill in shadows when photographing craftspeople at work in their small shops.

Casablanca's café culture deserves special attention from photographers. The historic Café de France offers a window into the city's French colonial past, while contemporary establishments showcase Morocco's modern evolution. These spaces tell a visual story of how tradition and innovation coexist.

One of my most productive sessions came from simply sitting at a sidewalk café near Place Mohammed V with my variable ND filter, which allowed me to shoot at wider apertures even in bright conditions. This created beautifully isolated subjects against the bustling urban backdrop as I documented the flow of daily life.