Saumya Sampat
1 min readNov 9, 2023

‘moments of serenity’| 2022, NYC, United States

A space exists in the bustling metropolis of Manhattan, where time seems to pause. This photograph tells a story of CURIOSITY & REFLECTION outside the Oculus.
With striking elements and grandeur, the building stands as a symbol of ambition and architectural mastery. It’s an icon of modernity, a tribute to human achievement. But it’s the MINUSCULE figures seated by its side that draw us in, inviting us to wonder about their stories.
What are they doing? What are they talking about? Are they old friends catching up or strangers sharing a moment of companionship? The beauty of this image lies in the unanswered questions it sparks.
The right amount of light bathes the frame, enhancing the sense of peacefulness and SERENITY. It’s as if time has slowed down, and for a brief moment, the city itself takes a breath.
In this single frame, we find a story of Manhattan’s dichotomy — a world that never sleeps and yet offers moments of quiet introspection. The Oculus, a symbol of ambition and progress, provides the backdrop for the city’s inhabitants to find a MOMENT OF RESPITE.

-saumya, 09.11.23 (Instagram: 1260cm3_photo)

Saumya Sampat
Saumya Sampat

Written by Saumya Sampat

Saumya is a passionate photography enthusiast with a pronounced affinity for black-and-white photography and meticulous compositions.