Berlin's clubbing scene is a phenomenon like no other, and photographer Chris Noltekuhmann has captured its unique afterglow in a captivating series.
The Mystique of Berlin's Club Culture
Berlin's club scene is a magnet for creatives worldwide, and Noltekuhmann, with his keen eye, has spent the last two and a half years documenting the ravers' post-club glow. He invites his subjects into his studio, aiming to freeze a moment in time, a moment of pure, unadulterated joy.
A Personal Journey
Noltekuhmann's journey began organically. After moving to Los Angeles, Berlin became his second home, and its vibrant club culture left an indelible mark. He explains, "Berlin truly spoils you with endless possibilities, any day, any hour. It's a city that never sleeps."
But here's where it gets controversial... Noltekuhmann's project, "Berlin Night After Glow," is an attempt to preserve a culture that is ever-changing. Many of the clubs he frequented when he first moved no longer exist, a testament to Berlin's fluid nature. He aims to capture a moment before it fades away.
Diversity and Authenticity
Noltekuhmann's studio became a haven for DJs, musicians, actors, dancers, scientists, architects, and more. He wanted to showcase the diversity of Berlin's clubbers, a city where everyone, from all walks of life, comes together to celebrate.
And this is the part most people miss... Berlin's clubbing scene operates on a different time scale. People leave the venues at all hours, and Noltekuhmann's studio became a late-night (or early morning) destination. He welcomed people whenever they left the club, creating an unpredictable yet charming timing.
The Analog Approach
Noltekuhmann's choice of medium format analog photography adds a unique touch to his work. He explains, "Analog has a timeless feel. Film captures a cinematic texture and depth that's hard to replicate digitally."
He continues, "People behave differently in front of an analog camera. Each frame is precious, and I wanted to create an intense, focused energy."
Noltekuhmann's choice of Kodak Portra 400 film and the Mamiya RZ67 camera with HMI lighting created a consistent, warm visual language. The film's smooth skin tones and the camera's loud shutter contributed to the overall effect.
The Technical Challenge
Developing and printing the images was a meticulous process. Noltekuhmann's local lab in Berlin, one of the few still using a hanging development method for C41, provided the consistency he needed. He then made handmade darkroom prints in Los Angeles, ensuring the project remained authentic.
However, printing every image by hand would have been impractical for a full book. Noltekuhmann scanned everything on his Imacon Precision 3 scanner, a vintage drum-style scanner that delivered traditional darkroom-like results.
A Successful Commercial Photographer
Noltekuhmann's commercial work has seen him capture celebrities like Timothée Chalamet and Ewan McGregor. Despite the challenges of shooting an entire campaign on film, his clients love the analog look.
He always carries an analog camera on commercial shoots, using it as a visual reference. He develops and scans a few frames, which often become the foundation for the color grade in post-production.
A Sanctuary for Freedom
Berlin's clubs have long been a haven for outsiders, creatives, and queer communities. Noltekuhmann reflects, "I travel a lot, and it reminds me how fragile our freedom is. The openness and fluidity of Berlin's culture are not guaranteed everywhere."
To explore more of Noltekuhmann's work and purchase a copy of "Berlin Night After Glow," visit his website and Instagram.
What do you think of Noltekuhmann's unique project? Do you agree that analog photography adds a certain magic to the images? Share your thoughts in the comments!
