Jan Von Bargen: December Photographer of the Month

Interview by Avery Fields/
Photos by Jan Von Bargen

Jan von Bargen, of Hamburg, Germany, is Bokeh Focus’ December Photographer of the Month. Von Bargen’s photograph received the most votes among four other nominees. He previously won Photographer of the Week during the final week of December. 

We interviewed Von Bargen to share his advice and experiences with the greater Bokeh Focus community. He states, “Just get out and shoot! … and do not lose the fun in what you are doing.”

The photos in this story are Von Bargen’s original images (© Jan Von Bargen).

What is the story behind the photos you’ve submitted?

Von Bargen: I was planning to do some long exposures during the night in my city. This is pretty time consuming but also rewarding as you can see by the picture. I like light trails and details so this is checking all my boxes.

Do you have a specific theme or topic that is the focus of your photography?

Von Bargen: Currently I am focussing on bokeh shots and light trails but I also like landscape and street photography.

What have you gained/experienced while working with this topic?

Von Bargen: I’ve gained a lot of knowledge in terms of camera settings for each type of picture. For example: Use a wide aperture to get bokeh, use a narrow aperture to make long exposures.

Tell us something about yourself that most people wouldn’t notice about you.

Von Bargen: I was pretty sporty before Corona.

What’s a piece of advice you would offer to other photographers to encourage their creativity?

Von Bargen: Just get out and shoot! Learn from others (e.g. Youtube Tutorials) and do not lose the fun in what you are doing.

We at Bokeh Focus recognize the depth of Von Bargen’s technical expertise in his photography. With the talent to create eye catching photos, he shows the beauty of the world beyond his lens, and shares a vibrant experience with the greater Bokeh Focus community. Thank you for the insight of your journey as a photographer and sharing your work, Jan.

View Von Bargen’s full size gallery