Uptown's Wet Night

Not What It Seems

Had the great fortune that it rained most of the day soaking the streets just as ordered by the lighting technician for tonight’s shoot.

Reflective streets, especially at night, add another dimension to photographs. Wet streets are darker during the day and add a layer of attention to a nighttime scene. Reflecting the glow of city lights lends an almost impressionistic quality to the scene.

As in these two photos, the receding lines lead the viewer’s attention to a point in the frame where the action is taking place. Tonight’s early action was people playing football and riding scooters on State Street soon after it closed for the Christmas Tree lighting.

Uptown Westerville is on a slight rise above South State Street leading into the city. That elevation looks down on the lit street creating silhouettes of people in the street helping define their actions. This compositional technique creates a sense of depth and perspective.

The human element is in the distance, small and somewhat indistinct, contributing to the overall sense of place without becoming the focal point. Their presence adds a layer of narrative, suggesting an unfolding story.

The colors in the photograph are muted yet rich, dominated by the cool blues and warm oranges of artificial lighting, which contrast with the darkness of the night sky. This palette evokes a feeling of warmth and intimacy.

The next time you’re watching a movie with street action see if the streets are wet. You’ll be surprised.