My First Visit to Sassoon Dock: A Photographer’s Perspective

For years, Sassoon Dock had been on my list of places to visit in Mumbai, but I kept putting it off. As someone who is vegetarian, and not particularly fond of strong smells, I always hesitated, knowing it’s one of the city’s busiest fish markets. The idea of walking through lanes filled with fish and the distinct scent that comes with it never appealed to me. But as a photographer, I also knew that Sassoon Dock holds immense potential for street photography. Today, I finally decided it was time to experience it for myself.

I set out with an open mind, determined to focus on the photography rather than my discomfort. And I’m glad I did, because Sassoon Dock is nothing short of a visual feast. The moment I arrived, I was greeted by an explosion of activity, fishermen and women moving swiftly, baskets of freshly caught fish being unloaded, and a general hustle and bustle that felt chaotic yet beautiful.

From a photography perspective, it was incredible. There were endless opportunities to capture candid moments, striking portraits, and vibrant street scenes. The mix of colour contrasts, fishing nets, clothing, and colourful crates set against the more muted tones of the dock and sea, created a fascinating visual harmony.

Every corner offered something unique layers of movement, textures, colours and emotions all packed into a single frame.

I was particularly drawn to the everyday life of the fishing community. Watching their dedication and teamwork unfold in real time was inspiring, and it reminded me why I love documenting real-life stories through my lens. Despite my initial concerns, I managed to stay focused on the photography, Interestingly, while certain areas were overwhelming in terms of smell, the main area of the dock were surprisingly manageable, which made shooting a lot easier than I had expected.

By the end of my visit, I felt both satisfied and excited. Sassoon Dock turned out to be a treasure of photographic moments, and I left with some truly special shots. It’s a place I now look forward to visiting again, there’s so much more to explore, and every visit is sure to bring new stories to tell.

For any photographers out there, especially those interested in street photography or capturing the spirit of Mumbai, I highly recommend adding Sassoon Dock to your list. Yes, it comes with its challenges, but if you can look past them, you’ll discover a vibrant world full of life, colour, and character, a true reflection of the city itself.