Paris Seine Flood – Photo Gallery
On June 6, 2016, after a week of relentless rain, the Seine River in Paris began to recede, though its level remained unusually high. During this historic flood, the banks of Paris turned into a surreal stage, with golden reflections from the setting sun shimmering on submerged quays. The silence and suspension of boat traffic amplified the strange calm of the moment.
Paris under water – a timeless atmosphere
Aside from police and firefighter patrol boats, no vessels moved on the Seine. Near the Pont des Invalides, the river spread well beyond its usual path, transforming the familiar urban scenery into something dreamlike and unfamiliar.
This 2016 flood echoed major floods from the past. Submerged footbridges, half-drowned lampposts, and trees with waterlogged roots composed striking and dramatic images.
Capturing the Seine flood with long exposure photography
To artistically document this event, I used long exposure times ranging from two to four minutes. This technique blurred passersby and erased moving vehicles, allowing a soft, silent mood to emerge.
The usually restless river took on a silky, mirror-like appearance, enhancing the contrast with the stationary architectural elements. This calm surface invited the viewer to focus on unusual visual details—a floating tree trunk, an isolated streetlight, or a flooded bench—capturing the temporary transformation of the city.
Paris flood photography – Document meets aesthetics
This photo series documents a rare moment in Parisian history. It highlights the raw power of nature to reshape our urban environments in just a few days. Through these images, I offer a poetic and documentary perspective on this exceptional flood.
Discover my full portfolio on The Seine in Paris
Buy a limited edition fine art print from this series (30 copies only), available from the gallery Une image pour rêver
Author: Sebastien Desnoulez is a Paris-based photographer with a passion for reflections, contrasts, and architectural atmospheres. His work explores the interplay between natural forces and the built environment through refined compositions. Learn more.
Click on the photos below to view them fullscreen.
Also read: Paris Flood 2016 – Seine in High Water
All the photos displayed on this website are copyright protected © Sebastien Desnoulez. No use allowed without written authorization.
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