Key facts
- Photojournalist Altaf Qadri captured an image of pilgrims during evening prayers at the Kaaba in Mecca.
- The photograph aims to convey a sense of unity and devotion among the millions participating in the Hajj pilgrimage.
- Access to photograph inside the Grand Mosque was facilitated by the Saudi Ministry of Media from the Mecca Clock Tower.
- The image was taken using a Sony A1 camera with a 70-200 mm lens.
Award-winning photojournalist Altaf Qadri has captured a striking image of unity and devotion during the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The photograph, taken during evening prayers, shows millions of Muslim pilgrims dressed in ihram, the simple white garments worn during the pilgrimage, prostrating around the Kaaba, Islam's holiest shrine.
Qadri, who is based in Dubai and has over 16 years of experience, including with The Associated Press, utilized an elevated vantage point from the Mecca Clock Tower to capture the scene. Access to this location was arranged through the Saudi Ministry of Media, as photography within the Grand Mosque is typically restricted. He used a Sony A1 camera with a 70-200 mm lens to frame the synchronized movement of the pilgrims.