John Arnison, a photographer from Leeds, has spent 25 years capturing waterfalls in the dark of night across northern England. Living with anxiety, ADHD and depression, he says the process has been a lifeline, describing his work as 'a balm for the soul'.
Arnison began his nocturnal photography journey in the Yorkshire Dales, driving nearly 40 miles to Malham in North Yorkshire. His goal was to develop a distinctive style, inspired by his earlier caving experiences. 'I wanted to come up with something really striking,' he said.
Struggling with depression since his early teens and diagnosed with severe dyslexia at age nine, Arnison found solace in nature. 'I find it so healing outside. I don't always get people, but nature and photography are honest and straightforward,' he explained. He finds busy cities unsettling but loves being alone in the countryside at night.
Over the past 15 years, Arnison has taken more than 150 waterfall photos, travelling across Yorkshire, Teesside and Cumbria, with plans to photograph in Scotland. He often works alone, occasionally bringing a friend with a walkie-talkie for complex shots. 'It’s so cathartic at every stage,' he said. 'When you’re out in the pitch black you can’t think of anything else.'
Arnison keeps all his negatives in a fireproof case at home, saying they are irreplaceable. Now 63, he hopes to publish a book of his work, possibly with poetry by northern writers. 'If anyone could look at it and take something helpful from it, then I’d feel really proud,' he added.
