Since I remember, I used to see other things in simple objects than my peers. Then finally, when I learned how to read, and a new field of my imagination was opened. I was always interested in how others see “books”. My head was full of images, and when I was closing my eyes I was in that world (and when I discovered Haruki Murakami I walked hungrily – u know what I mean?). Same like some of us are hearing the voice of the person who texted us. We all have superpowers 🙂
The first time with Lem, Philip K. Dick, and Frank Herbert was mind-blowing.
You’re probably thinking, why am I talking about it now? It’s simple – when I am visiting places where I’m going to photograph (or not) for the first or hundreds of times, my imagination brings me something else. It depends on my mood, weather, smell, colors, music, or text in my head. Furthermore, it’s hard to explain to someone who can’t connect to my brain and heart. Not only that, but it’s as hard as to answer the question “Why is a tomato red?” is; a true story from my exams at the art academy. Maybe it’s not simple, but the artist’s brain eyes see other things and colors than someone……
Knowing the medium and other photo techniques, I can translate what I see at that particular moment. Other forms. Lifeforms. And while walking and photographing, I heard “Lifeforms” by Future Sound of London. Enjoy.
Sometimes, it’s hard to explain where the ideas about my blog titles are coming from.
Sometimes it’s well-known smell, color, mood…
Sometimes, it’s a movie.
This time I couldn’t stop thinking about Emir Kustorica’s “Time of the Gypsies”. Don’t ask me why. I took these pictures last year at the Slavic & Vikings Open-Air Museum in Wolin, North-West Poland.
The day was full of good conversations, laughs, and food. These tranquil moments I miss most. I’m sure pictures will tell you more than my words.
I have been photographing for over 25 years now. It all started with film cameras, and I still remember the excitement of developing my own film and prints in the bathroom, I didn’t have a darkroom at the time, and like everyone, I improvised.
Last year, I decided to treat myself to a birthday gift – the same medium format camera I used back in 1998. It was like going back in time. One thing that I have learned over the years is that experimenting with different techniques and materials can lead to some incredible results. In this blog post, I want to share my experience of working with expired film for over 20 years, and how it has helped me to learn from my own mistakes.
When working with expired light-sensitive materials, there is always a risk of ruining the film or paper. It can be daunting to invest time, effort, and resources into a project, only to end up with disappointing results. However, I have learned that the fear of destroying something should not hold me back from experimenting and trying new things. One of the advantages of analog photography is that it allows for a hands-on approach. Unlike digital photography, where everything is processed automatically, working with film and paper requires a more manual process. This means that there is room for experimentation, and even if things do not turn out as expected, there is still something to learn from the experience. Nowadays, with digital cameras and automated processing, it can be easy to forget the intricacies of the craft.
Moreover, working with analog materials has given me a new appreciation for the artistry of photography. The imperfections and textures that emerge from expired film or paper can create a unique and evocative aesthetic that is hard to replicate with digital tools. It is a reminder that sometimes, the beauty of a photograph lies not in its technical perfection, but in its dynamic impact.
As a photographer, I have always been fascinated by the power of photographs to capture moments and emotions. For me, photography is not just about taking pictures, but about telling stories and immortalizing memories. I love analog photography, especially photographing people. The faded images may not be sharp or vibrant, but they have a unique charm and a timeless quality that evokes strong emotions and memories.
Let me take you on a journey of my love for analog photography and photographing people, and show you how these two passions intersect and inspire me.
As a woman photographer, I recently had the opportunity to conduct a photoworkshop in NDSM, Amsterdam. The workshop focused on teaching participants about composition, light, and lenses, and how to apply these concepts to their photography. Despite the fact that NDSM is normally a crowded place, we were lucky to have almost no people around on this sunny but cold day in the Netherlands.
It was a unique opportunity for photographers to explore and capture the beauty of NDSM without any distractions. In this blog post, I will share my personal experience of photographing in NSDN and provide tips and tricks for those who want to capture the beauty of this place through their lenses.
NDSM is an old industrial estate that has been transformed into a creative hub. The place is characterized by its unique, eclectic, and industrial style, which can be a challenge to photograph. The location is usually bustling with people, artists, and visitors, which makes it a great place to practice street photography.
When you arrive at NDSM take a few minutes to explore the area and understand the light and shadows. This will help you to plan your shots and the settings on your camera.
It is also important to respect the privacy of the artists and not to disturb their work while photographing. Always ask for permission before taking any photos of their work or space.
Composition is a crucial element in photography, and it can make or break a photograph. In NSDN, you can find many unique and interesting compositions, thanks to the various textures, shapes, and colors of the surroundings. It is important to keep an eye out for these elements and use them to your advantage.
When composing your shot, consider the rule of thirds, leading lines, and symmetry. Try to create a balanced composition that draws the viewer’s attention to the subject.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different angles and perspectives to create a more dynamic composition.
Light is one of the most important elements in photography, and it can make a huge difference in the final result. In NDSM you can find many different types of light, from natural light to artificial light. It is important to understand how to use them to your advantage. When shooting light, pay attention to the color temperature and try to adjust your white balance accordingly. You can also use different light sources to create interesting effects, such as neon lights or street lamps.
The lens you use can also make a big difference in your final result. In NDSM, you can find many different subjects that require different types of lenses. For example, if you want to capture a wide-angle view of the location, you can use a wide-angle lens. Alternatively, if you want to capture the details of the artwork, you can use a macro lens.
It is important to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each lens and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different lenses and focal lengths to create different perspectives and moods.
NDSM is a bustling location, full of people, artists, and visitors. Capturing the people in the surroundings can add a sense of life and movement to your photographs.
When photographing people, it is important to respect their privacy and ask for their permission before taking their photo. You can also try to capture candid moments that showcase the emotions and personalities of the people in the surroundings.
Don’t be afraid to interact with the people and ask them about their work or their experience in NSDN. This can help you to create a more meaningful photograph.
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most of your photography experience in NDSM:
Respect the privacy of the artists and ask for permission before taking any photos of their work or space.
Experiment with different angles and perspectives to create a unique composition.
Try to capture the life and movement of the surroundings by including people in your photos.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different lenses and editing styles.
As a woman photographer, I believe that photography is not just about capturing the beauty of the surroundings, but also about telling a story and capturing emotions. NDSM offers a unique and eclectic backdrop that can help you to create meaningful and impactful photos. I hope that my tips and advice will help you to make the most of your photography experience at NDSM and inspire you to continue exploring and experimenting with your photography skills.
“Do algorithms decide which (dis)information we get to see? How can we reinvent our imperfect, messy narratives? “
“FAKE ME HARD is your guide to the post-truth society. A spectacular hands-on exhibition with installations by over 40 artists exploring the complex reality of the 21st century.
In the year 2021, we can no longer afford to feign that technology is neutral. In these times of deepfake videos and populism, it is becoming increasingly difficult to tell the difference between ‘real’ and ‘not real’. Algorithms facilitate a web of lies, with direct consequences for society and democracy. Just think of the recent storming of the Capitol by pro-Trump rioters, partly attributed to the large scale dissemination of QAnon theories by algorithms. Driving those algorithms is the shadowy business model of a handful of all-powerful big tech companies. Platforms such as Facebook and Google use our data to personalize our experience – and to influence us. With our clicking behavior we build our own mirror-palace, a hyper-personalized parallel universe. To speak in Matrix-terms: we can no longer choose between the red and the blue pill, between the truth and blissful ignorance. It seems that only the blue pill is available. But it is not too late. We don’t have to stand by and watch a new feudal era unfold. We can arm ourselves by becoming ‘robot-proof’ and by making algorithms ‘human aware’. By talking back to AI, we can teach it a language in which there is space for human significance and interpretation. Team Human can reimagine the mirror palace as an ecosystem of freedom and possibilities.” https://fakemehard.nl/
“Reality is approximately as dependable as a politician’s promise… the result is the same: Reality, of the capital “R” variety, has become as relative a thing as the dryness of our respective Martinis. Yet the struggle goes on, the fight continues. Against what? Ultimately, Powers, Principalities, Thrones, and Dominations, often contained in hosts who are themselves victims, prisoners, manipulated men and women.” ― “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?”
Couple of weekends ago, spontaneously together with my friends we went for “gals only” weekend to Germany. We all had enough of covid-19 restrictions and we were happy to get a chance to go for this trip. By the car is not that far away. In 4h we made to the holiday heaven. We had place with fantastic view:a lake and the mostly missing, mountains. Could stay there for forever…
Target: relax as much as possible, yoga by the sunrise, water bikes/kajak and cycling. Talks till the late night and extreme support for each others. All done in 3 day long.
