Patterns Of Imperfection: The Magic Of Expired Film.

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.

The smell of the rain

The smell of the rain.

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.

The vertical reality, Uncategorized

The vertical reality on candid camera.

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.

The streets of Rotterdam

The streets of Rotterdam – from Roffa with love.

The streets of Rotterdam offer a rich and diverse range of subjects for photography. From its modern architecture to its bustling street life. Whether you’re a street photographer, an architecture enthusiast, or just looking to capture the energy of this incredible city, Rotterdam is a must-visit destination for photographers. And my favorite city in the Netherlands.

Last Saturday, on a gloomy and rainy day, after the visit to the Kunsthal went for a Photowalk with my student. The main goal was the introduction to street photography, which is a challenging and rewarding genre that requires both technical skills and creativity. It’s an opportunity to observe and document the world around us, and to tell stories through images. Street photography often involves capturing spontaneous moments, so it’s essential to be quick and discreet in order to capture the right moment. The key to successful street photography is to be aware of your surroundings, anticipate interesting moments, and have a good eye for composition. It’s also important to have a good understanding of exposure and the use of light, and post-processing techniques to enhance your images.

Back to the past 2015/2016

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 😉

The Hague 2015/2016