Crowded streets in 8 seconds

Each of Nicolas Ruel’s photographs is exposed for 8 seconds. The photographer explains that this number is similar to the infinity symbol (∞) and thus conveys the sense of infinity in his film-stacked cityscapes.

Wandering around, Nicolas captures moments of crowded cities, from train stations to churches, libraries, stadiums... anywhere people are gathered. He sets up a tripod and takes a 4-second exposure in one direction, then turns the camera while the shutter is still open and takes another 4-second exposure in the other direction to create a 8-second two-dimensional document.

Long exposures capture movement through shadows. Overlays blend two separate scenes together. Combining the two techniques gives the image depth, allowing the viewer to stand still but still have a view of the surroundings.

Nicolas is more attracted to the hustle and bustle of human life than the tranquility of nature. Possessing a unique artistic eye, Nicolas depicts familiar places such as New York's Times Square or London's Oxford Circus with a dynamic, bustling perspective.

Nicolas travels around the world to capture life's moving moments. Starting from 6 cities, there are now 68 names in Nicolas' collection and he is aiming for 100. However, he does not want to limit himself to any number, his goal is to aim for infinity.

Ba Di