Night Photography by John Vias

Vincent Van Gogh wrote, “I often think that the night is more alive and more richly colored than the day.” I create night photography to inspire others to see the life and colors of the night—in a tree’s translucent leaves, a bench’s repeating patterns, a bridge’s sensuous curves.

I explore the dark looking for subjects. Darkness brings on a subtle curfew, vacating streets and sidewalks. The even sunlight of the day yields to dramatic pools of light, defining impromptu stages where the actors never arrive.

In the field, when I’m satisfied with my composition, I open my camera’s shutter. Minutes later, I close it. The unreal colors in the prints are the film’s reaction to the light and long exposures.

Photographing at night is like shooting a movie all on one frame. Time is compressed; movement is frozen. What’s left is stillness and quiet. With our hurried lifestyles, my work is an invitation to slow down. And look.

I hope you’re inspired by my award-winning night photography and would like to share your life with some. Please come to my studio in Berkeley, California, during a show or call for a no-obligation appointment. You can always purchase prints right here at my Web site.