“The Bench”: Simon Beni’s Jerusalem
British-born photographer and guide Simon Beni has gained international recognition for his striking images of Jerusalem, a city to which he devotes most of his artistic work. His photography goes beyond simple documentation, offering an intimate and layered portrayal of this ancient city. Beni has carved out a distinct space in contemporary photography by exploring the city's rich, multifaceted character through his unique vision, particularly in his street-art photography that captures the essence of holiness and spirituality in the Holy Land. Inspired by classic painting, Beni’s work blends the timeless beauty of traditional art with the vibrancy of contemporary street life. This essay delves into Beni’s artistic journey, his methods of capturing Jerusalem’s essence, and the distinctive qualities that make his work stand out in today’s photographic landscape.
HM: Simon I understand that you are full time guide specialist in Old Jerusalem can you tell us more about it.
SB: For the past eight years, I have been organizing and leading a specialized photography tour in the historic old city. During this time, I have conducted hundreds of workshops, providing immersive experiences for photographers of all levels from around the world. Among the many esteemed participants, I have had the privilege of hosting internationally renowned photographer Art Wolfe, offering unique opportunities for photographers to enhance their skills and capture the essence of this iconic location.
HM: Simon, your photographs of Jerusalem have resonated deeply with audiences around the world. Can you tell us what first drew you to photograph this city?
SB: Jerusalem has always been a source of fascination for me, even before I began photographing it. It's a place where ancient traditions and modern life coexist, and the contrast between the sacred and the everyday is something that really captivated me. I wanted to explore how the city’s layered history is still present in its streets, its people, and its atmosphere. The challenge was to convey that depth through my lens.
HM: Your images offer a unique perspective of Jerusalem, often focusing on the everyday scenes rather than just the iconic landmarks. What’s your approach to capturing the city?
SB: My approach has always been to go beyond the obvious. Yes, the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre are essential parts of Jerusalem’s identity, but the city's essence lies in its alleys, its marketplaces, and the quiet moments in between. I try to capture those small, intimate moments that tell the story of the city’s pulse—its people, its daily rhythms, and its unique energy.
HM: You’ve managed to portray Jerusalem not just as a geographic location but almost as a living entity with a soul. How do you achieve that sense of connection in your work?
SB: I think it comes down to patience and observation. Jerusalem is a city of contrasts, and I spend a lot of time immersing myself in those contrasts. By being present, I’m able to notice the subtleties—the way light hits the stones at certain times of day, the expressions on people’s faces as they go about their daily lives, the mixture of tension and serenity in the air. My goal is to capture that complexity, the feeling that the city itself is alive, breathing, and evolving.
HM: Faith and spirituality are central themes in your work. How do you navigate photographing such personal and sometimes sacred moments?
SB: Respect is key. Jerusalem is a city that holds profound spiritual significance for Jews, Christians, and Muslims alike, and I try to approach my subjects with sensitivity and care. Whether it’s someone praying at the Western Wall, lighting a candle in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, or a family visiting Al-Aqsa Mosque, I want to capture not just the ritual, but the humanity behind it. My photographs are about people’s relationship with faith, and I aim to show that shared sense of devotion, regardless of religious differences.
HM: Do you have a favorite spot or a recurring scene you find yourself returning to over the years?
SB: Definitely. One spot I find myself returning to time and again is a bench near the entrance of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. There's something magnetic about it—it feels like a stage where people from all over the world stop for a moment. It's a microcosm of Jerusalem, and in many ways, a reflection of the world itself. Pilgrims, tourists, and locals alike converge there, each bringing a unique story. I could photograph that bench for a lifetime, and it would always present something new. The light that filters through the space creates a scene with a timeless, almost theatrical quality—reminiscent of Rembrandt’s lighting in his paintings.
HM: It’s fascinating that a simple bench could serve as a lifelong subject! What about the Church of the Holy Sepulcher itself? It’s such a complex place with a mix of different Christian denominations.
SB: The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is truly one of the most extraordinary churches in the world. What makes it so unique is that it’s not just a Catholic or Orthodox church—it's a shared sacred space for six different Christian denominations: Ethiopian, Armenian, Greek Orthodox, Catholic, Syrian, and Coptic. This intricate coexistence is governed by a 'status quo' agreement that has been in place for centuries. Interestingly, even the church doors are opened and closed by a Muslim family, continuing a tradition that has lasted for generations.
What captivates me most is not the occasional minor disputes over rituals or spaces but the incredible beauty that this diversity brings. During Easter, for instance, each denomination celebrates in its own distinct way, with processions and vibrant attire that fill the church with life. Photographing it feels like being in a living museum, where every corner is steeped in history and tradition.
HM: Light and shadow play an important role in your photography. Can you talk about how you use these elements to enhance your storytelling?
SB: Jerusalem’s light is unique, almost mystical. It changes throughout the day, and I love using that interplay of light and shadow to add depth and mood to my images. Early morning light softens the city, giving it a peaceful, almost golden quality. In contrast, the harsh midday sun creates sharp shadows that can bring out the rawness of the scene. For me, light is not just an aesthetic tool—it’s symbolic of the dualities within Jerusalem itself: ancient and modern, peaceful and tumultuous.
HM: Jerusalem is indeed a city of light and shadows, with its rich tapestry of religious and cultural events. You mentioned being particularly drawn to Christian festivals. Could you share why these events captivate you, and perhaps some unique experiences you've had while photographing them?
SB: Absolutely. Jerusalem, sacred to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, is a city of profound religious diversity. The Christian festivals, in particular, captivate me with their vibrant visuals and deep historical significance. Events like Easter and the Feast of Tabernacles transform the city into a canvas of cultural and spiritual expression that I love capturing through my lens.
One of the most powerful experiences is photographing the Holy Fire ceremony during Easter. The sheer sight of thousands gathered around the Church of the Holy Sepulcher, waiting for the Patriarch to emerge with the flame, is breathtaking. Watching 20,000 people holding candles, their faces glowing in the light of the Holy Fire, is a moment filled with reverence and unity. The flame is then flown on private jets to countries like Russia and Greece—it's a logistical marvel and a testament to the ceremony’s global significance.
HM: Your photographs often juxtapose the ancient with the contemporary. Why is that contrast so central to your work?
SB: Jerusalem is a city where history and the present are constantly intersecting. You walk through an ancient gate, and suddenly you're in a modern marketplace or a bustling street. I find that fascinating, and I want to show how the past and present coexist in the same space. It’s a reminder that Jerusalem is not just a relic of the past—it’s a living, breathing city where people from different backgrounds come together every day. My photographs are about capturing that dynamic.
HM: Your work touches on the theme of coexistence, but you also acknowledge the tensions within the city. How do you balance these narratives?
SB: Jerusalem is a city of contradictions, and that’s what makes it so compelling. On one hand, it’s a place where people from different religious and cultural backgrounds coexist, often in harmony. On the other hand, there are visible tensions—security barriers, armed soldiers, protests. I don’t shy away from those realities. Instead, I try to present a balanced view, showing both the moments of unity and the moments of division. The goal is to offer a nuanced perspective and encourage viewers to engage with the complexities of the city.
HM: Your photographs have been praised for their emotional depth and technical mastery. What message do you hope people take away from your work?
SB: Ultimately, I hope my work encourages people to look beyond the headlines and the surface-level narratives of Jerusalem. There’s so much more to this city than conflict and division. It’s a place of beauty, faith, resilience, and human connection. My photographs are a meditation on those themes. If viewers can come away with a deeper understanding of Jerusalem’s complexities and a greater sense of empathy for its people, then I’ve achieved what I set out to do.
