08 . 07 . 2026 · Bali · field Notes

Bali in Black & White

Bali is more than just vast stretches of delightful turquoise beaches and powdery sand.

When one thinks of Bali, the first image is of vast, pristine turquoise hued waters that stretch for miles, highlighted by white sandy beaches, dotted with boats, masseuses and people. lots of people.

The truth is Bali is all that, and more. There is a Bali for everyone. From languid Ubud and its rice terraces, to the break neck Canggu, to the been-there-done-that’s Sanur. Not to forget the hundreds of tiny islands, and extensions of Bali that can fulfill every adventurous desire you have.

But there is a Bali underneath the Bali everyone knows about. It is slow, devoid of any rush, or need. Just existing for millennia; for someone to come and discover it.

But you cannot find it if you look for it. You have to slow down. Incredibly.

This Bali is also rewarding; unbridled awe and gratefulness fill you, and time stops. After all, isn’t that what we all want? Time to stop in the greatest moment of our lives?

And the beauty of it all is that like ether this Bali also lives across the Bali the world knows of.

On the busy beaches of Sanur, you will find a father and son deep in the water, and conversation; the former imparting wisdom only he can; and in the only manner he can. The environment is incidental. But the intent isn’t.

But take your time, think a lot
Think of everything you’ve got
For you will still be here tomorrow but your dreams may not

– Cat Stevens

You will come across fishermen, who have forgotten more about the sea, than you and I will ever know. And in them you will find the true Bali – unrushed, knowing, permanent.

One can be as alone as you need; finding solace in what has been, and what is. Everything will be there once again, if you need it. Same as before, or new as you want. You can be anything you want to be.

This other Bali, has no expectations from you. There are no checklists to check; no swings you have to swing, no colors to fill.

Bali lets you discover yourself, one breath at a time.

Find your Bali.

…For you will still be here tomorrow but your dreams may not.

View all 15 photographs from this series in the Bali album →

Photographs MADE WITH SONY A7R V AND 24-70 MM F2.8

BALI · TRAVEL · FIELD Notes