Michele Borgarelli, BPSA
October 2026 - Berlin Cathedral
About the Image(s)
Background: image taken with the camera setting in black and white with a 10 stops ND filter. Is one of the classical “postcard” view of Berlin.
Fujfilm GFX 100Sii, with Fujinon GF 45-100mm f/4 at 45mm. 40 sec, f/32, ISO 80
13 comments posted
Michele, this image gives the impression that Berlin is a cold and uninviting city. I can see why this is a classic postcard view, with the bridge and beautifully balanced buildings creating a pleasing composition. I really like the smooth, long-exposure effect on the river, although the out-of-focus boat just beyond the bridge would be better removed. The magnificent Berlin Cathedral adds tremendous visual impact and interest, with everything rendered beautifully sharp. Posted: 10/09/2026 22:38:44
Tom,
Thank you for taking the time to look at and comment on my image. I'm not sure why the photograph conveys to you the idea that Berlin is a cold and uninviting city, but since photographs are meant to evoke emotions, I am perfectly fine with that interpretation.
I also understand your comment about the boat. However, the boat is not actually out of focus. What you are seeing is an effect of the long exposure, which can create the impression of "ghostly" objects or people, like in this particular case. In fact, one of my current projects involves collecting long-exposure images that include people or moving objects which, because of this technique, appear as ghosts.
For me, long-exposure photography has become a way to slow down and reflect. It requires time, patience, and a tripod. The "ghosts" that appear in the images symbolize people or things that are disconnected from the reality around them because they are too busy rushing somewhere or doing something.
Once again, thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Best regards,
best
Michele Posted: 10/12/2026 16:14:05
Thank you for taking the time to look at and comment on my image. I'm not sure why the photograph conveys to you the idea that Berlin is a cold and uninviting city, but since photographs are meant to evoke emotions, I am perfectly fine with that interpretation.
I also understand your comment about the boat. However, the boat is not actually out of focus. What you are seeing is an effect of the long exposure, which can create the impression of "ghostly" objects or people, like in this particular case. In fact, one of my current projects involves collecting long-exposure images that include people or moving objects which, because of this technique, appear as ghosts.
For me, long-exposure photography has become a way to slow down and reflect. It requires time, patience, and a tripod. The "ghosts" that appear in the images symbolize people or things that are disconnected from the reality around them because they are too busy rushing somewhere or doing something.
Once again, thank you for sharing your thoughts.
Best regards,
best
Michele Posted: 10/12/2026 16:14:05
Nice capturing of the cathedral. I like the long exposure which conveys a sense of calmness. I felt the sky is a bit bland without clouds. I wonder if a bit of gradient would make it a bit more interesting. Posted: 10/13/2026 23:40:32
Thank you Spring for commenting on my image. Regarding the sky, it was used as "negative" space, and therefore, I feel it does not need any enhancement. The sky is not an important element of this image that is a urban landscape.
best wishes
Michele Posted: 10/14/2026 12:47:38
best wishes
Michele Posted: 10/14/2026 12:47:38
You are right Michele, looking at the image again, the sky and the smooth water frames the cityscape nicely. Posted: 10/15/2026 00:24:41
This is a strong example of architectural and urban landscape photography. The Berlin Cathedral dominates the center of the composition, serving as the clear visual anchor. The bridge stretches horizontally across the frame, creating a strong foreground line that guides the viewer's eye toward the cathedral. The monochrome gives the image a classic, documentary character. Please check vertical alignment and perspective. Posted: 10/19/2026 23:41:18
Thank you John, much appreciate you taking the time to comment on my image.
I double checked on my screen and actually the church is straight.
Best wishes
Michele Posted: 10/20/2026 13:22:16
I double checked on my screen and actually the church is straight.
Best wishes
Michele Posted: 10/20/2026 13:22:16
I'm pleased you used the word ghost in your description Michele, that's exactly how I'd have described the boat. I've not done a trip to Berlin, I intended to do one on 2020 but we all know what happened then.
I think the scene conveys a sense of calm due to the long exposure as well as the grandeur that is conveyed by the Cathedral - well taken. I love the depth of shadows on the water. Posted: 10/20/2026 10:22:46
I think the scene conveys a sense of calm due to the long exposure as well as the grandeur that is conveyed by the Cathedral - well taken. I love the depth of shadows on the water. Posted: 10/20/2026 10:22:46
Thank you Nigel, I am happy you like the image.
all the best
Michele Posted: 10/20/2026 13:23:06
all the best
Michele Posted: 10/20/2026 13:23:06
I like this fine-art style image of the Berlin Cathedral on the waterfront, with its dome as a clear focal point. The reflection off the smooth, long-exposure water grounds the grand cathedral nicely. I also like the black and white treatment, which gives it a stately and timeless feel. Posted: 10/20/2026 18:24:37
Thank you Dennis, I much appreciated you taking the time and commenting on my image.
All the best
Michele Posted: 10/21/2026 13:07:33
All the best
Michele Posted: 10/21/2026 13:07:33
I love this image -- it's a classic black and white, perfectly exposed and composed. Regarding the "ghost," someone once called Ansel Adams complaining that a print of a grove of Aspen trees in New Mexico was out of focus. Ansel's answer was that it was a slow shutter speed with a slight breeze that caused to the leaves to move, creating the impression it was out of focus. Of course, none of Ansel Adams' images or prints were ever out of focus. Posted: 10/21/2026 15:48:42
thank you Mike for sharing your thoughts about this image of mine. I much appreciate it.
Best wishes
Michele Posted: 10/22/2026 12:06:27
Best wishes
Michele Posted: 10/22/2026 12:06:27