Tanah Lot Temple in Bali – Long Exposure Photography and Sacred Atmosphere
Long exposure photographs of Bali’s Tanah Lot Temple, where volcanic rock meets the sea in a mystical blend of movement, silence, and sacred presence.
Tanah Lot Temple, perched on a rocky islet off the coast of Bali, is one of the island’s most iconic and photographed landmarks. This sacred site, dedicated to sea deities, draws hundreds of visitors daily, eager to witness the dramatic meeting of ocean and volcanic stone. As an art photographer, I chose to capture this emblematic monument through a series of long exposure photographs, using exposure times of 8, 11, and 20 minutes.
This technique creates an almost otherworldly atmosphere by contrasting still elements — rocks, temple structures — with moving ones like water and passing visitors. Over time, the sea transforms into a silky veil, waves and spray melt into a dreamlike mist. Human figures become blurred, almost ghostly, reinforcing the impression of a place suspended between two worlds. A way to visually express the spiritual and mystical dimension of Tanah Lot, between eternity and impermanence.
If you’re interested in contemplative scenes of Bali, you can also explore the landscapes around Ubud or the rice fields captured in natural light.
Tanah Lot is one of Bali’s must-see temples. To learn more about this site and other iconic Hindu temples around the world, see the Wikipedia article on Tanah Lot.
Buy a fine art print of this photograph, limited to 30 copies, available in the Une image pour rêver gallery.
About the author: Sebastien Desnoulez is a fine art and architectural photographer. Through long exposure techniques, he reveals the poetry of places by shaping light and time. Learn more.
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All the photos displayed on this website are copyright protected © Sebastien Desnoulez. No use allowed without written authorization.
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