THE SILENT CITY
Joakim Thórneus
Stockholm's old town, the historic city centre, dates to the Middle Ages, and many buildings have survived since that time. The narrow and cramped alleys remain largely the same as they did hundreds of years ago. During spring and summer, it is lively, and tourists crowd the streets. But in autumn and winter, when it's cold and dark, the old town is surprisingly deserted, despite being located in the heart of Stockholm. During that time of year, I love to wander around the old town with my camera and tripod.
In the tranquillity, it's easier for me to focus on photography; there's nothing to distract me, and I can compose my shots in peace. Through my compositions, I try to capture the silence and serenity that I experience. A streetlamp may provide interesting light or shadows, or a building may appear different in the darkness compared to daytime. In an environment with such historical significance, it's easy to start contemplating what it was like in the past. What was it like to walk here in the 18th century when there was no electric light, and the alleys were illuminated by oil lamps?
In the summer, there's an entirely different light in the old town. During this time, I must be there very early in the morning, partly to have the alleys to myself, and partly to capture the special light. Just after the sun rises, it shines into certain alleys, and if you're in the right place at the right time, the early rise is truly rewarded.
I photograph in the old town almost every week, yet I constantly discover new angles and compositions that I haven't seen before because each season has its unique light.
This article first appeared in PRISMA, Issue 7.