A photographer with nearly a decade of experience in nightlife, Rachel Ecclestone captures the energy, intimacy, and hidden stories of the night. Rachel’s work moves between the vibrant chaos of the dance floor and the quiet moments of connection, revealing nightlife as a space of freedom, creativity, and collective emotion. Rachel Ecclestone is a citizen of the world and has a passion for electronic music and the culture.
WHAT CHARACTERISES YOUR WORK?
My work is defined by a focus on colour, intimate moments, and respect for the people and spaces I document. I try to capture not only the energy of the crowd but also the smaller, quieter interactions that give nightlife its unique character. Quality is very important to me, so I always aim to deliver high-quality, technically precise images.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION OF NIGHTLIFE CULTURE?
I see nightlife culture as a space of freedom, creativity, and connection. It brings together people from different backgrounds and allows them to express themselves in ways that aren’t always possible during the day. By giving space to the taboos and offering relief from daily strains, nightlife becomes a kind of church for many people.
IN YOUR OPINION, WHY IS IT IMPORTANT THAT THE NIGHT EXISTS?
The night offers a different rhythm, one where time feels looser and people can step outside of their daily roles. It creates space for freedom, vulnerability, and connection. I remember photographing so many moments where the whole crowd came alive — cheering for dancers, bonding with strangers, or sharing in the joy of a favorite artist. There was pure happiness, but also something deeper: a collective consciousness that everyone was part of. That togetherness is rare, and in many ways it’s healing. The night matters because it allows us to experience unity and presence that the day doesn’t always invite.
WHAT IS THE APPEAL OF THE NIGHT?
I love a challenge — and the night is one of the biggest. It’s one of the most demanding environments to work in long-term as a photographer (or videographer). I have deep respect for my colleagues who endure long, late hours, unpredictable situations, and hazardous lighting — while also navigating personal challenges to stay true to their morals. The mystery and freedom of the night, combined with the looseness that comes after a few drinks, creates a dreamlike realm where people open up, talk, laugh, and forget about the online world that so often pulls us back in.
HOW DOES A PHOTOGRAPHER RELATE TO THEIR SUBJECT AT NIGHT?
With respect and sensitivity. A nightlife photographer has to dance between being present and invisible. Who wants to interact? Who wants to disappear? Who enjoys the attention, and who doesn’t? You have to get close enough to capture real emotion, but never disturb the flow — unless you can add to it. It’s about becoming part of the atmosphere without changing it.
ARE THERE ANY SPECIAL TECHNIQUES YOU USE IN YOUR WORK?
I often shoot in a black-and-white picture profile, which helps me focus on composition, shapes, and human interaction without being distracted by color in the moment. Beyond shooting, I rely heavily on both technical skill and editing to bring out the atmosphere of the night in a way that feels authentic to the experience.
WHAT HAS BEEN THE BEST NIGHT OR EVENT YOU’VE SHOT?
Honestly, in nine years I’ve attended and worked at more than 2,000 events, and there are so many special moments, people, backstage talks, and euphoric drops that I will treasure for life. It’s hard to choose. From the closing of De Marktkantine to the farewell of De School, I’ve shed tears of joy for the warmth and love I’ve felt at these places. It would feel wrong to my heart to pick just one.
WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE TRACK OR ARTIST?
Currently, my favourite track is ‘Brown in the Margins’ by ABUZU.