ERAY BINTAS

Rise of Empires: Ottoman is a 6-episode Netflix docuseries centered on Sultan Mehmed II and the conquest of Constantinople. It was a massive production, and as Art Director I helped bring the 15th century back to life — from grand throne rooms and war tents to military camps, siege cannons, and countless period props.

The scale was huge, and every detail mattered. Many of the most challenging sequences were large-scale exterior war scenes, often shot at night, where atmosphere was just as important as accuracy. Entire environments had to feel authentic and lived-in, balancing historical realism with the practical demands of filming.

Working closely with historians and the art department team, each space was designed to reflect the reality of the period, not just its image. Mud, fire, fabric, wood, and metal all played a role in creating a believable world that could stand up to close camera work.

The series was produced by Karga Seven Pictures, directed by Emre Şahin, with Zeki Sarayoğlu as Production Designer.