In this edition of PROFOLIO, we’re delighted to introduce you to Fakhar-e-Alam Bhatti, an electrical engineer based in Lahore, Pakistan, whose passion for photography reflects the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Fakhar’s journey began in 2001 while pursuing his Master’s at Imperial College London. It was there, upon purchasing his first digital camera, that he discovered a lifelong fascination with the art of image-making.
Deeply inspired by Old Lahore’s heritage, architecture, and bustling lifestyle, Fakhar strives to capture the city’s essence by weaving together historic backdrops and everyday human connections. He prefers a 1:1.25 aspect ratio, allowing him to build layered stories within each frame—juxtaposing Lahore’s timeless buildings with its vibrant, modern pulse.
Whether he’s framing a serene alleyway bathed in soft light or a lively corner teeming with energy, Fakhar’s photographs bring Lahore’s past and present into harmonious focus. Through thoughtful composition and a keen eye for detail, he highlights the daily narratives that shape this storied city. We invite you to immerse yourself in Fakhar’s vision of Old Lahore and experience the rich tapestry of culture and community he reveals in every shot.
We asked Fakhar to share with us some of his favorite images for this PROFOLIO…
Chauburji, a 17th-century Mughal monument in Lahore, photographed in 2002 before the Orange Line train obscured its visibility.
An old building on Lodge Road, Lahore, with a lot of character.
Government Victoria Girls Higher Secondary School, once the haveli of Nau Nehal Singh, located near Mori Gate in the walled city. Nau Nehal Singh was the grandson of Maharaja Ranjit Singh.
A man walks past the side gate of the 17th-century Masjid Wazir Khan. I’ve photographed this mosque more than any other in the walled city, drawn to its stunning fresco work and easy access through Delhi Gate.
Pakistan Talkies, a fading landmark of Lahore’s cinematic past, known as the oldest cinema theatre in Pakistan.
An elderly woman, a window, a world of memories. Below, an inscription reads 'Iqbal Begum'—a name that hints at stories from the past, though her connection to it remains a mystery.
I captured this image of a tobacco shop in the walled city years ago, drawn to its simplicity, free from modern distractions. Lahore's old streets often transport you back in time, and this scene did exactly that.
A street portrait of a goods transporter. This street is known as 'Shahi Guzar Gah' or the Royal Trail.
A blurred motion capture of visitors moving through Gawalmandi Food Street, one of old Lahore’s culinary hubs.
I have noticed this in my village and here in the Walled City as well that smaller communities share a closeness that's rare elsewhere. This family’s smiles were warmly returned by the flower vendor.
