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.
The smell of the forest is one of the best parts of the experience, even if you live in the country when it rains most of the year. The scent of pine and moss and the sound of birdsong fill the air, creating a genuinely calming atmosphere. The smell of the forest is powerful after a rain, with the earthy scent of wet soil and the freshness of the rain-soaked leaves.
This weekend away I went with my friend and old neighbor to her holiday home (vakantie housje) which I located right in the middle of the Netherlands.
This place is popular for photographers and nature lovers, but also for downhill rides and other activities. You can stay active all the time or simply enjoy nature. The freshness and peacefulness of the forest make it the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
There is no such thing as ugliness for a photographer. As pathetic as this might sound.
I love small towns, touched by time, and slowly dying. I look into backyards and sneak into various nooks and crannies. Not only that, but I love the beauty of passing the time.
I’m recently working with[in] my photography archive. Trying to organize projects which never were published. What a surprise I had when I found these pictures. I was photographing the artworks hanging in strange and hidden places in the city of The Hague. When I discovered the first one, finding more was much easier. Hopefully, I’m going to find the name of this project as well. It is somewhere deep 😉
Spring this year arrives later than last years. Maybe after a year when people had to slow down, mother nature is taking a long breath. Maybe. Two weeks ago i had a long walk in one of the magical parks in the city. They called it forrest. I was hunting fresh herbs but not succeeded. Instead of lots of forms, shapes catches my eyes. Surreal forms in the shadows.
