25/09/2026
There’s a certain kind of weather that makes me want to photograph Tallinn differently. After the rain, the ground becomes part of the scene, reflections stretch the architecture, colours become a little richer, and a familiar place can suddenly feel unfamiliar.
Patarei is probably one of the best places in Tallinn for that kind of mood. Built as a sea fortress in the 19th century and later used as a prison until 2002, it carries a lot of history in its walls. Around Kalarand, that old atmosphere mixes with the sea and the newer side of the city, which makes the whole area surprisingly fun to explore with a camera.
The AstrHori Lenses 9mm f/2.8 was a perfect companion for it. Wide enough to play with puddle reflections, dramatic skies, architecture and the open sea, while getting close enough to make the foreground part of the story. After the rain, there’s always a little more to photograph, sometimes above you, sometimes in front of you, and sometimes right under your feet.