Nocturnal, flowing streaks of light on the Berlin Spree

by Silva Wischeropp

As part of the Berlin Light Festival (FOL), illuminated ships were travelling along the Spree in Berlin at night. I took this light-filled architectural motif in the tunnels under the Jannowitz Bridge with the help of a photo tripod. The long exposure time makes the passing lights look like colourful streaks. The result is an effective, surreal, almost ghostly ambience that transforms the nocturnal city of Berlin into a veritable dream image. The flowing waters of the River Spree lend the motif an additional imaginative, meditative atmosphere. The reflections of the blue points of light on the iron tunnel arch also give the photo an interesting and mystical character.

I took this long exposure photo on 4 October 2015 in the late evening hours with the NIKON D90 camera (lens: SIGMA 18.0-50.0 mm f/2.8) and a photo tripod on the banks of the Spree in Berlin, opposite the Jannowitz Bridge. Due to the extended exposure time, the passing ship is only shown in coloured stripes. This creates a luminous, fascinating, nocturnal play of light. This wonderful urban water motif radiates a mysterious mood and special atmosphere. The banks of the Spree are transformed into a fairytale-like backdrop and cast a spell over the observer.

For lovers of night shots, the motif is ideal for hanging in bedrooms and has a highly meditative and calming effect.
Anyone looking for peace and tranquillity in the lively and bustling city of Berlin will find many suitable paths for a night-time stroll along the banks of the Spree. The pleasant evening temperatures at the beginning of autumn offer the perfect opportunity for this.