Four seasons in Berlin: Winter

A winter of street photography on Berlin's cold, wet and icy streets.

This post is Part Three of a four part photographic series. The series covers four seasons of street photography in the city of Berlin.

The entire series of Seasons of Berlin can be found here.

---

Winter

The clouds swallowed us all up. The faint gray of the days hung overhead. It was as if the chill of winter had drained the world of all its colour and contrast. The snow fell at every possible speed, and ice perilously blanketed the sidewalks. The people retreated inside, and I still persisted on the outside.

* * *

We all have lives to live in this city. We cross through, above and below it every day. But the practice of observing with a camera during this time of year becomes markedly more difficult.

To me, street photography is about people. But if so many escape to their homes instead of escaping to their city, what moments might remain for me to observe? There is so much to this craft that is pure luck — based simply on the chance that something interesting will happen when I am nearby, ready and brave enough to raise the camera. More people means better chances for success.

But not many locals are standing around outside waiting to freeze.

Not many are — except me and those who are like me. We who walk in endless circles around plazas; who explore around every corner; and who will seek out their opportunity somewhere far below, or above, the streets.

We are hunters chasing the fleeting moments of life in our city.

---

---

Winter’s hunt

Selected street photographs, 2023 - 2024

Spring comes next, and it will conclude this series.

The entire series of Seasons of Berlin can be found here.

If you’ve enjoyed my writing and photography, I’d ask that you consider subscribing to show your support for my work. And you’ll be notified when the next newsletter arrives.