Framed by Time Photographing One Blackfriars Through London’s Forgotten Victorian Pillars

London has a remarkable way of revealing itself when you least expect it.

After spending the day in Brighton, I returned to London Bridge Station feeling slightly disappointed from a photography perspective. The weather along the coast had been mixed, the light constantly changing, and the beach crowded; conditions that can make it difficult to create the calm, atmospheric fine art images I am always searching for.

With my camera packed away, I began the familiar walk along the River Thames towards Blackfriars Station, preparing to head home. At that point, I had already accepted that the day might end without a photograph worth keeping.

However, London photography often rewards patience.

As I climbed the steps near Blackfriars, something made me stop and look back. Suddenly, the scene revealed itself perfectly framed between the striking red Victorian pillars standing in the Thames.

These iconic red columns are the remaining piers of the original Blackfriars Railway Bridge, constructed in 1864 when the London, Chatham & Dover Railway extended across the river to what was then St Paul’s Station. Today, they remain as one of London’s most fascinating hidden architectural details and a quiet reminder of the city’s rich railway history surrounded by an ever-changing modern skyline.

Beyond the pillars stood One Blackfriars, the distinctive glass skyscraper completed in 2018. Often nicknamed “The Boomerang” or “The Vase” due to its curved design, the building has become one of the most recognisable additions to the London skyline. The contrast between the historic Victorian structure and the sleek modern architecture immediately caught my attention.

It felt like a perfect balance between old and new London.

I quickly unpacked my camera and tripod before the light disappeared. Using Lee Filters and a long exposure technique, I was able to soften the movement of the Thames and the passing clouds, creating a more minimalist and timeless fine art photograph. The water became smooth and atmospheric while the old red pillars remained strong and unmoving anchoring the composition against the constantly evolving city beyond.

What began as a disappointing day unexpectedly became one of my favourite London cityscape photography moments. It was a moment in time that I captured which no longer exists due to the evolving architectural changes in the city.

This image is a reminder that some of the most meaningful photographs are often unplanned. Sometimes the best light, the strongest compositions, and the most memorable moments appear only when you slow down and look behind you.

Victorian Red Pillars Blackfriars Bridge London UK

Fine Art London Photography by Mark Roche Photography

Mark Roche Photography specialises in atmospheric long exposure photography, capturing London from dawn through to blue hour and nightfall. From iconic landmarks along the River Thames to hidden architectural details and dramatic skyline views, each image aims to present London in a calm, timeless, and cinematic way.

Explore more from the London Cityscapes collection including fine art prints of Blackfriars, Tower Bridge, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the evolving London skyline.