During my extensive stay in SW Madagascar, I most enjoyed the opportunity to take dhow photos. The dhow is the ubiquitous sailing vessel used by the indigenous Malagasy fishermen (Vezo) and also for all forms of transportation. Indeed, traveling on the dhow is one of the most memorable aspects of my Madagascar travels.
History of the Dhow
The ancient dhow sailing vessel is certainly not exclusive to Madagascar. Throughout the last 2500 years this iconic wind powered sailing vessel has sailed over the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. Indeed, both the Indians and the Arabs extensively used the dhow throughout history. As a result, it is not certain which one of them invented it. However, it was most likely the Arabs that first introduced it to Madagascar.
Primarily, the vessel was used for trade and could hold up to 30 crew members and 2 masts. Although in Madagascar it is primarily crewed by 1-3 sailors and has one mast.
Most essentially, this venerable sailing vessel has tremendous transportation utility. In addition, I found the dhow to be the most photogenic object in Madagascar.
Ifaty Sunrise Dhow Photos
This mastless dhow was moored on the beach right near my hotel in Ifaty. Fortunately, one morning there was no breeze blowing and this photo opportunity presented itself.
The image of the boat is reflected on the still water and the result is a better photo. In contrast, you can see this same dhow during sunset when the wind is much more active which disturbs the water and disrupts the photo.
Front Lit Dhow Photos
The coastal aspect of SW Madagascar provides for a sunrise in the east and sunset in the west. In the following photos, the sunrise provides ambient front lighting for the colorful dhow sails as they sailed away from the beach in Anakao Madagascar.
Back lit Dhow Photos – Anakao Madagascar
In addition, back lighting creates silhouettes. As a result, the photos are simplified into mere outlines and therefore the effect can be very enhancing when used properly.
These back lit dhow photos are some of my favorites from Madagascar. Unfortunately, back lighting is not always a positive attribute and it only works under optimal circumstances.
However, the simmering Madagascar sunset makes it much more simple to get a grand effect. I do not use any photo enhancing color filters and all of my photos are 100% natural lighting (flash notwithstanding).
Miscellaneous Lighting
The essence of the Malagasy Vezo fisherman is best captured with dhow photographs. I hope you enjoyed my short photographic tribute to the Vezo sailors and Madagascar.
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