At Westkapelle, history and landscape meet in powerful ways. On our third day there, we walked from Westkapelle towards Domburg and passed several war monuments — solemn reminders of the tragedy that struck this coastline in WWII. In 1944, Allied forces bombed the dikes to flood the area, a painful but tactical move to hinder German occupation. The cost was immense: many lives were lost, homes destroyed, and communities displaced. Liberation came, but at a heavy price.

Beyond the monuments stands the small but striking Vuurtoren Noorderhoofd (North Head Lighthouse). Painted in vibrant red, it watches over the sea — a beacon of safety, but also a symbol. To me, it represents both remembrance and resilience. We cannot erase the scars of the past, nor should we. They remind us of what unchecked hate, racism, and aggression can bring.

Yet the lighthouse also points forward. Just as its light guides ships to safer waters, so too can memory guide us toward a future built on peace, justice, and vigilance. “Never again” was the promise after WWII — a call not only to remember but to act, wherever injustice rises.

History is not behind us; it’s beside us, shaping every step. Standing there, with the sea winds and the red tower against the horizon, I felt that message deeply: look ahead, but never forget.

#Westkapelle #Zeeland #Lighthouse #Vuurtoren #NorthHead #Noorderhoofd #WWIIHistory #NeverForget #Remembrance #WarMemorial #HistoryMatters #CollectiveMemory #PeaceNotWar #NeverAgain #LearnFromHistory #StopWar #HumanRights #Resilience #Hope #LookForward #Freedom #Democracy #HistoryAndNature #LandscapePhotography #HistoryPhotography #CanonPhotography #Sigma100400 #Canon5DMIV #PhotographyForPeace #HistoricalPlaces #Monuments #WWIIMemorial #CoastalView #Seascape #OceanView #BeaconsOfHope #Symbolism #PastAndFuture #PeaceAndJustice #DocumentaryPhotography #HistoryThroughTheLens

Storms by the sea are never just about wind and waves — they’re about raw forces of nature colliding in ways you can feel with your whole body. During last week’s storm, taking sharp pictures felt like a battle in itself. Every shot was handheld, because even a tripod wouldn’t survive the gale. The wind howled, the sea roared, and then came the sand — endless grains, propelled like tiny bullets by the gusts, mixed with salty sea spray.

In the first image, the wave breakers bear the marks of that power. Lines of airborne sand cut past the poles, revealing just how ferocious the storm’s energy was. Scientifically, this process is called saltation — grains lifted and bounced by wind, gaining enough speed to carve and erode whatever they strike. It’s the same force that shapes dunes and slowly wears down coastlines.

The second image shows a man braving the storm near the shore. His stance, his struggle, and the visible streams of sand all capture what it means to endure weather at its fiercest. To stand on that beach was to be humbled — by the sheer scale of forces that shape landscapes and remind us of the balance between human presence and natural power.

These moments were captured with the Canon 5DsR + Sigma ART 24/70 and the Canon 5D Mark IV + Sigma 100/400. A tough test for both camera and photographer — but worth every grain of sand.

#stormforce #sandblasted #windpower #beachstorm #zeeland #westkapelle #canon5dsr #canon5dmarkiv #sigma2470art #sigma100400 #coastalforces #gailwinds #seastorm #naturepower #weatherphotography #stormchaser #seasideview #beachlife #roughweather #oceanenergy #wavebreakers #coastalprotection #seastates #weatherwatching #extremeweather #coastalphotography #seascapes #windstorm #stormyweather #canonphotography #stormcapture #coastalstorm #dutchcoast #northsea #natureelements #weatherlovers #beachphotography #canonshooters #intenseweather #photographycommunity #pixelfed

Last week’s storm brought more than just dramatic skies and roaring waves — it also brought a reminder of the courage and skill of those who protect lives at sea. As I photographed the storm at sunset, I suddenly caught flashing lights from the corner of my eye. A large vessel stormed across the beach: the KNRM (Koninklijke Nederlandse Redding Maatschappij).

Within moments, the lifeboat hit the water, cutting through crashing waves with incredible force. The sheer power of the launch was breathtaking — in one frame, the ship burst through a backlit wave, sending a giant spray skyward, and in the next, it rose above the water as if weightless. To witness such a scene, and to capture it, felt like pure luck and timing.

The KNRM is staffed largely by volunteers, men and women who risk the elements to rescue others in need. Seeing them in action, even in training or readiness, is a striking reminder of the human dedication behind maritime safety.

These shots were taken with my Canon 5D Mark IV and Sigma 100–400mm, with the storm winds and salt spray making it as much a battle for my gear as for the lifeboat crew. Once again, cleaning up after the shoot was no small task — but moments like these are worth every grain of sand.

#KNRM #reddingboot #lifeboat #zeerescue #stormchasing #stormyseas #roughseas #zeeland #westkapelle #canon5dmarkiv #sigma100400 #maritimesafety #wavesplash #oceanpower #seastorm #nauticallife #coastguard #maritimerescue #canonphotography #seaphotography #stormphotography #actionshot #photographerslife #zeelandbeach #oceanwaves #rescueatsea #maritimevolunteers #courageatsea #canonshooters #wavecrash #seascapephotography #canonphotographer #lifesavers #maritimeheroes #photographycommunity #stormwatching #northsea #dutchcoast #seapower #pixelfed

During a morning walk to the nature reserve Natuurpark Oranjezon we passed a row of pastel-colored beach houses. I was just about to photograph them when two people strolled by, followed by a young boy, head down, slowly kicking his ball forward with an air of boredom. That was the moment I pressed the shutter.

The scene struck me as a double contrast: the boy’s mood against the lively, cheerful backdrop, and the pale sand blending with his hair against the colorful beach houses framed by dark dunes. It’s a reminder that sometimes life feels gray, even when surrounded by color.

Although this wasn’t shot in a city, it still belongs to street photography. The genre isn’t limited to actual streets — it’s about candid, unposed human moments unfolding in their natural environment. Whether in a square, a metro station, or here on the beach, the essence of street photography lies in observing and capturing the fleeting stories of everyday life.

Taken with my Canon 5D Mark IV and Sigma 100–400mm.

#streetphotography #beachhouses #natuurparkoranjezon #canon5dmarkiv #sigma100400 #storytellingphotography #decisivemoment #humanpresence #documentaryphotography #photographylovers #moodyphotography #contrastphotography #streetlife #streetmood #seasidephotography #dutchcoast #everydaymoments #candidshot #photographerslife #visualstorytelling #timingiseverything #photooftheday #moodytones #lifeincolor #dutchphotography #streetcapture #candidphotography #humanstories #fleetingmoment #storyinapicture #photographysoul #sandandsea #streetstylephotography #streets_storytelling #environmentalportrait #moodyvibes #lensculturestreets #streetsincolor #visualnarrative #momentcaptured #streetframe

The day after the storm we returned to the beach, and the North Sea was more furious than ever. The wind cut across the shore with brutal force, and the waves rose higher than I have ever seen before — each one crashing with a power that humbles you.

We arrived just as sunset painted the aftermath. Between two storm fronts, the light broke through the clouds in a way that seemed almost otherworldly. Though the sun itself was hidden, its glow illuminated the scene in gold, turning even the wild waves into liquid fire. In the middle of this chaos stood the red buoy, a small but steady marker battling the storm — I call this shot “Red Buoy in the Stormy Golden Waves.”

Photographing in these conditions is always a challenge. I traveled, as usual, with most of my gear, but the sandblasting was relentless. Every gust carried grains that crept into zippers, joints, and even deep into my camera bag. The next day was spent carefully cleaning my Canon 5D Mark IV, Sigma 100–400mm, and everything else — a reminder that nature always leaves its mark, even on the tools we use to capture it.

This image is more than a photograph; it is a moment of resilience, light, and raw power held together in one frame.

#stormphotography #redbuoy #canon5dmarkiv #sigma100400 #zeeland #northsea #stormywaves #oceanpower #goldenwaves #stormylight #coastalphotography #seascapelovers #weatherphotography #extremeweather #sandblasted #naturephotography #dutchcoast #westkapelle #seaandsky #moodylandscape #oceanenergy #climatephotography #wildsea #stormchasing #wavecrash #stormclouds #canonphotography #landscapephotography #northseacoast #stormwatch #dramaticlight #backlitwaves #sunsetglow #oceanstorm #powerofnature #weatherwatching #seascapeart #stormylightscape #naturepower #seascapephotography #photographerslife

Last Saturday I found myself at Westkapelle, Zeeland, during a fierce southwesterly storm. The sea was alive with raw energy, its rhythm both terrifying and mesmerizing. My first image captures a red buoy fighting its endless battle against towering waves — a symbol of resilience in an outraged sea. The backlit waves revealed deep emerald tones through their translucent crests, crowned with foamy white spray, the buoy holding steady above.

A gull flew straight toward me in another frame — simple, yet powerful. Its wings spread against the turbulent backdrop, it seemed to embody the calm determination needed to survive such storms.

The third shot froze the sheer force of water as it crashed violently against the wooden breakers, sunlight catching the spray in a fleeting golden shimmer.

And finally, my favorite: sunset breaking through storm clouds, with beams of light stretching across the horizon. Even in the midst of chaos, nature reveals its beauty — a reminder that turbulence and serenity are often only a moment apart.

Captured with the Canon 5D Mark IV and Sigma 100–400mm, these images remind me why storms have always fascinated both scientists and artists: they are nature’s raw poetry.

#stormphotography #zeeland #westkapelle #canon5dmarkiv #sigma100400 #seascapephotography #stormyseas #oceanpower #climatephotography #weatherphotography #wavepower #stormchasing #stormylight #sunsetphotography #seabirds #gull #coastalphotography #northsea #dutchcoast #wildsea #seascapeart #canonphotography #naturephotography #extremeweather #windandwaves #stormysky #dramaticlight #wavecrash #stormwatch #climateawareness #landscapephotography #oceanenergy #seastorm #stormclouds #moodylandscape #backlitwaves #seascapelovers #weatherwatching #naturepower #photographerslife #sunsetstorm

Event photography is always unpredictable, and at the Partij voor de Dieren congress it was truly put to the test. From the main hall, where harsh sunlight poured through a massive skylight, to side areas lit only by artificial lamps, and the congress floor itself bathed in dim color lights, every corner presented a new challenge. The main stage stood out with relative brightness, but even that demanded constant adjustments.

Then came the performance by Pussy Riot after the first break — high-energy, fast movement, and the unexpected splash of water from the lead singer turned the moment into a photographer’s adrenaline rush. Capturing sharp frames in those conditions required patience, flexibility, and a willingness to adapt instantly.

Armed with my Canon 5D Mark IV paired with the Sigma 100–400mm, and my Canon 5DsR with the Sigma ART 24–70mm, I was able to balance reach and flexibility. One lens let me get close to fleeting expressions, the other captured the atmosphere of the stage and hall.

It was a demanding but rewarding experience, reminding me why I love event photography: it’s about chasing light, freezing energy, and telling a story that words alone cannot capture.

#eventphotography #canon5dsr #canon5dmarkiv #sigma2470art #sigma100400 #congressphotography #documentaryphotography #liveevent #stagephotography #concertphotography #eventlighting #photographychallenge #lowlightphotography #harshlight #pvdd #capturingmoments #photographyinmotion #storytellingthroughimages #politicalevent #partijvoordedieren #photographylife #visualstorytelling #liveperformance #pussyriot #musicphotography #actionphotography #reportagephotography #photographerlife #professionalphotography #canonphotography #dslrphotography #eventshoot #lowlightchallenge #capturingenergy #onstagephotography #documentaryphoto #lightandshadow #intensemoments #fastactionphotography #concertmoments #photojournalism

Yesterday I took my new Canon 5DsR and Canon 5D Mark IV out for a test run at Spoorpark Tilburg—and walked right into a basketball match. A group of young guys, shirtless under the summer sun, were giving it their all on the court. After asking if they were okay with me photographing them (they were more than excited!), I jumped in with my cameras to try and keep up.

For sports photography, timing is everything. These players were sprinting end-to-end, leaping high, and dodging low in quick succession. With my 5DsR paired to a Sigma 50mm prime, I was right in the action—capturing expressive faces, the grit, and the raw energy. Meanwhile, the 5D Mark IV with the Sigma 100–400mm gave me the reach for those powerful jump shots and mid-court duels.

Lighting was a challenge: harsh sun one moment, soft shadows the next. Rapid adjustments to shutter speed, aperture, and ISO were essential to keep motion sharp without blowing out highlights. Add in the physical workout of carrying heavy gear and maneuvering around fast-moving players—and it was as much a sport for me as it was for them.

Sports photography teaches patience, reflexes, and anticipation. Blink at the wrong time, and you miss the moment. But nail it, and you freeze raw athleticism into an image forever.

#SportsPhotography #BasketballPhotography #Canon5DsR #Canon5DMarkIV #Sigma50mm #Sigma100400 #SpoorparkTilburg #SportsAction #SportsLife #BasketballGame #StreetBasketball #SportsEnergy #AthleteLife #SportsPassion #JumpShot #BasketballCourt #SportsFocus #SportsTiming #SportsShoot #SportsMotion #CanonPhotography #DSLRPhotography #StreetSports #SportsCommunity #SportsPortrait #SportsChallenge #AthleteEnergy #SportsShot #SportsGear #SportsFlow #BasketballLife #SportsCaptures #GameTime #SportsPerformance #SportsIntensity #BasketballAction #PhotographyChallenge #SportsPower #SportsArt #SportsPhotographyTips #SportsPhotographer

Sometimes nature reminds you that the best moments are the ones you didn’t plan for. Last week, I set off with my wife Christel to Huis ter Heide near Tilburg, hoping for birds and landscapes in the soft early morning light. The birds were quiet, the landscapes less inspiring than I’d hoped—but the insects stole the show.

First came the hardworking Common Carder Bee (Bombus pascuorum), captured close-up as it buried itself in a flower’s nectar. Next, a Pyrausta purpuralis, a tiny but striking moth with purple and gold tones, resting perfectly still on a leaf. Both were taken with my Canon 5D Mark III and the MP-E 65mm f/2.8 Super Macro—a lens built for the extreme close-ups that reveal details our eyes often miss.

Switching to my Canon 7D Mark II and Sigma 100–400mm, I caught a vivid Ruddy Darter (Sympetrum sanguineum) perched near the water, and finally, a Speckled Wood butterfly (Pararge aegeria) warming itself on a sunlit leaf.

This is why I carry nearly 15 kg of gear on long walks: two cameras, four lenses, and a tripod. Because in nature, the unexpected is always waiting.

#HuisTerHeide #NaturePhotography #MacroPhotography #BugPhotography #InsectPhotography #BombusPascuorum #CarderBee #PyraustaPurpuralis #MothPhotography #DragonflyPhotography #SympetrumSanguineum #RuddyDarter #ParargeAegeria #SpeckledWood #CanonPhotography #Canon5DMarkIII #Canon7DMarkII #Sigma100400 #MPE65 #SuperMacro #NatureLovers #NatureObsessed #NatureOnEarth #WildlifePhotography #MacroNature #NatureFocus #PhotographyGear #NatureBrilliance #NatureSeekers #NatureHealing #PhotographyLovers #WildlifeMacro #MacroWorld #NaturePerfection #DiscoverNature #NatureShot #NaturePhotographyDaily #MacroBug #NatureCaptures #NatureBeauty #CanonGear

Part Four – Birds of the Kampina

Arriving in the Kampina before sunrise, the blue hour bathed the landscape in soft tones. My first encounter was with the Wood Lark (Lullula arborea, boomleeuwerik), its melodic song carrying across the quiet heath. A short while later, the cheerful Eurasian Blue Tit (Cyanistes caeruleus, pimpelmees) appeared, flitting among the branches with bursts of energy.

A new sighting for me came in the form of the White Wagtail (Motacilla alba, witte kwikstaart), its sleek black, white, and grey plumage standing out against the morning grass as it bobbed its tail in that characteristic rhythm.

Then, in the golden morning light, a magnificent Eurasian Spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia, lepelaar*) soared overhead—its long neck and spoon-shaped bill unmistakable as it glided silently across the sky.

The Eurasian Blue Tit returned in later moments, sometimes pausing to watch me, sometimes diving from the tree canopy with wings spread wide, briefly illuminated by the rising sun—a small flash of living color against the still-waking world.

These mornings remind me why I rise so early. Each species, familiar or new, carries its own story, and together they form the living heartbeat of the Kampina. From the whisper of wings to the bright calls through the mist, it’s a place that rewards patience, presence, and curiosity.

Canon 7D Mark II + Sigma 100–400mm | 5:00–10:00, early morning

#BirdPhotography #WildlifePhotography #NaturePhotography #BirdWatching #Kampina #WoodLark #Boomleeuwerik #LullulaArborea #BlueTit #EurasianBlueTit #Pimpelmees #CyanistesCaeruleus #WhiteWagtail #WitteKwikstaart #MotacillaAlba #EurasianSpoonbill #Lepelaar #PlataleaLeucorodia #BirdsInFlight #MorningLight #GoldenHour #NatureLovers #BirdNerd #BirdsOfEurope #Ornithology #FieldNotes #NatureWalks #MistyMorning #CanonWildlife #Sigma100400 #EarlyBird #BirdWatchingDaily #FeatheredFriends #AvianBeauty #BirdPerfection #BirdBrilliance #NatureInspiration #PhotographyLife

Flowers of the Kampina – Part 3

Summer in the Kampina is a feast for the senses, and nowhere is this more evident than in its wildflowers.

I began with Sagittaria graminea (smalbladig pijlkruid), its delicate white petals catching the morning light, while a honeybee worked busily at the top of the frame. Nearby, the toxic yet beautiful Cicuta virosa (waterscheerling) stood tall, its blossoms framed by a shimmering bokeh from the water behind.

The humble Prunella vulgaris (gewone brunel or bijenkorfje) was next—a true bee magnet. I captured it with my Canon 5D Mark III and MP-E 65mm macro lens, a rare, specialized lens that magnifies from life-size to five times life-size without additional accessories. It’s a tool for those who want to dive into the smallest worlds nature hides.

At the northeast near Huisvennen, I wandered into a sea of blooming clover. My photo shows just one flower, but the meadow was alive with bees darting between blossoms.

The heath is also in bloom, painting the landscape in purples and pinks. In the early morning, unopened buds still held tiny dew droplets—each a perfect lens for the rising sun.

Finally, the Galeopsis tetrahit, here in a pale form with purple specks. While modest in appearance, it belongs to the vast orchid family—one of the oldest and most diverse plant families on Earth.

Next: Part 4 – Birds of the Kampina.

Hashtags:
#Wildflowers #Kampina #MacroPhotography #Canon5DMarkIII #Canon7DMarkII #Sigma100400 #MPE65mm #SagittariaGraminea #CicutaVirosa #PrunellaVulgaris #CloverFlower #HeathInBloom #GaleopsisTetrahit #OrchidFamily #BeeFriendly #PollinatorLove #NatureCloseUp #DutchNature #Oisterwijk #WildNetherlands #MacroMagic #FloralPhotography #BotanyLovers #PlantScience #FlowerDetails #TinyWorld #FlowerMacro #InsectPollination #BeePhotography #NatureArt #BokehLovers #MorningDew #BloomSeason #SummerFlowers #WildFlora #NatureObservation #PhotographyForTheSoul #BotanicalBeauty #PlantDiversity #WildflowerSeason #HiddenNature

The Wonderful World of Fungus – Part 2

After last week’s rains, the Kampina near Oisterwijk revealed a hidden kingdom—one that thrives quietly beneath our feet. This week, I set my lenses to macro mode and explored the intricate, often overlooked life of fungi and slime molds.

First, I found Rickenella fibula, a tiny moss-dwelling mushroom just a few millimeters tall, its orange caps glowing against the green carpet. Nearby, Mycena stylobates stood on delicate stems, their translucent caps perched above fallen leaves. Looking closely, I could see the long, thread-like hyphae weaving underneath—nature’s living network, breaking down leaf litter and recycling nutrients.

Then came the slime molds. One bright orange species looked like clusters of tiny eggs, each a potential transformation into a spore-bearing structure. Another, still a mystery to me, appeared as a single white, chalk-like sphere on moss—perhaps the fruiting body of another slime mold, or something else entirely. Nature loves to leave puzzles for us to solve.

After hours in this miniature world, I reached the heart of the Kampina and paused at a weathered workman’s hut before heading home. My Canon 5D Mark III with MP-E macro lens captured the fine details, while the Canon 7D Mark II with Sigma 100–400mm kept watch for the bigger picture.

Next up: Part 3—The blooming heath and wildflowers of the Kampina.

Hashtags:
#MacroPhotography #Canon5DMarkIII #Canon7DMarkII #Sigma100400 #MPE65mm #FungiPhotography #RickenellaFibula #MycenaStylobates #MossLovers #TinyMushrooms #FungusAmongUs #SlimeMold #Mycology #MushroomLovers #FungiMacro #ForestFloorFinds #NatureCloseUp #DutchNature #Kampina #Oisterwijk #WildNetherlands #MushroomSeason #MicroWorld #FungiFriday #InstaFungi #MycoBeauty #ForestMagic #MossAndFungi #TinyWorld #FungiOfTheNetherlands #MacroMagic #MushroomArt #SlimeMoldSpotting #MysteryMushroom #SporeLife #NatureDetails #HiddenNature #WildlifeMacro #NatureObservation #CloseUpNature

Summer’s Small Wonders

It’s been an intense week job hunting—stressful, but necessary. When the tension builds, I return to my medicine: walking and photography. This time of year, midsummer, wildlife can be scarce. So I turned my attention to the smaller residents of the Kampina near Oisterwijk.

With my Canon 5D Mark III and MP-E macro lens, I captured a common honeybee at work. Then a Calopteryx splendens—known in Dutch as the weidebeekjuffer—its metallic blues shimmering in the sun. A gatekeeper butterfly (Pyronia tithonus) with weathered wings reminded me that beauty exists in imperfection. Another posed with wings closed, its patterned eyes giving the illusion of a cross-eyed stare—an optical quirk of insect anatomy.

A small emerald moth (Hemistola chrysoprasaria) rested among blooming heath (Calluna vulgaris), a gentle hint that summer’s edge is near. Nearby, four perfectly shaped green leaves formed the silhouette of a butterfly—nature’s accidental mimicry.

Switching to my Canon 7D Mark II and Sigma 100–400mm, I explored further. After a week of rain, the forest floor has begun to transform—mushrooms emerging like quiet sculptures. These fruiting bodies of fungi are not just beautiful; they are vital recyclers, returning nutrients to the soil and supporting entire ecosystems.

Next up: a closer look at the “wonderful world of fungus.” Until then, I’ll keep walking, keep noticing, and keep sharing.

#MacroPhotography #Canon5DMarkIII #Canon7DMarkII #Sigma100400 #MPE65mm #WildlifeMacro #NatureCloseUp #InsectPhotography #BeePhotography #Damselfly #CalopteryxSplendens #Weidebeekjuffer #ButterflyPhotography #PyroniaTithonus #GatekeeperButterfly #SmallEmeraldMoth #HemistolaChrysoprasaria #HeathFlowers #CallunaVulgaris #LeafMimicry #NaturePatterns #SummerNature #Kampina #Oisterwijk #DutchNature #Biodiversity #InsectMacro #Pollinators #WildlifeOfTheNetherlands #InsectsOfInstagram #MothOrButterfly #NatureObservation #CloseUpNature #MacroMagic #SmallWorldBigBeauty

Zoutelande, Dunes, and a Dutch Coastguard Surprise

While walking atop the dunes of Zoutelande, we were suddenly circled by a low-flying SAR helicopter of the Dutch Coastguard. Its altitude kept dropping, and we instinctively kept our distance — unsure if we were witnessing a real rescue operation.

Was someone lost or in danger? The tension grew as the beachguard’s pickup truck rushed past us. We stepped aside to clear the way, hoping for the best, watching the helicopter hover lower and lower over the shoreline. For a moment, it felt serious.

But then the truck returned and stopped beside us.

"Just a training drill," the diver explained with a smile. “They didn’t even tell us.” We all shared a brief moment of relief and mutual respect.

What could’ve been a tense moment turned out to be a well-executed practice — a reminder of the unseen work that keeps our coasts safe. Coastguards train hard for moments they hope will never come, and it’s a privilege to have witnessed a piece of that commitment.

And yes — I captured the scene with my Canon 5D Mark III and Sigma 100–400mm lens. Now, with full respect to their mission, I can share these images.

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#zoutelande #coastguarddrill #sarhelicopter #searchandrescue #dutchcoastguard #canon5dmarkiii #sigma100400 #helicopterphotography #dutchbeaches #safetyfirst #coastalwatch #emergencytraining #beachlife #natureandrescue #dutchlandscape #dunescape #zoutelandemoment #coastalpatrol #lifeguardduty #hoveringheli #realmoments #unseenheroes #thankyouservices #zeelandsafety #strandwacht #photostory #visualreportage #coastlinesafety #naturewalks #dunewalk #emergencypreparedness #rescueoperation #dutchresilience #civicduty #publicsafety #landscapestory #militarytraining #witnessingnature #actofkindness #safeandaware #maikeldebakker

Zoutelande Through My Lens — Stories in Stillness

Photography is often about more than light and focus — it’s about perspective, emotion, and timing. These four images, taken with my Canon 5D Mark III and Sigma 100–400mm lens, represent a quiet but powerful narrative from last Sunday in Zoutelande.

📸 Image 1: My wife walking away between the wave breakers, avoiding the deeper water where I stood. A moment of everyday humor and love — where practicality meets poetry in motion.

📸 Image 2: A young girl standing alone on a small, sandy island surrounded by water. She gazes out toward the ocean, her solitude and wonder mirroring our own curiosity about the world beyond.

📸 Image 3: Here, lines take over the story — the towering dunes on one side, the endless sea on the other, and a wooden walkway that leads the eye straight to the horizon. Composition meets contemplation.

📸 Image 4: A solitary blue beach cabin, perfectly framed by sand and dune. It stands quiet and grounded — a symbol of stillness amidst the natural elements.

Each photo is a reminder that beauty lies in how we see things — and sometimes, in the space between what is and what could be.

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#zoutelande #landscapephotography #beachvibes #dutchcoast #canon5dmarkiii #sigma100400 #leadinglines #coastalphotography #zandduinen #zeelandnatuur #naturestory #visualnarrative #photographerslife #bluecabin #solitude #seascape #seadunes #compositionmatters #wavebreakers #dutchlandscape #naturalframe #oceanvibes #lifebythesea #dunesofholland #seasideview #perspectivephotography #sandpatterns #emotiveimagery #natureandpeople #climateandcoast #wanderlustphotography #natuurbeleving #femalefigure #everydaybeauty #photographyart #lensbasedmedia #beachperspective #wandelendvrouw #kustzicht #zoutelandemoment #maikeldebakker

Where the Dunes Meet the Sea — Zoutelande’s Living Landscape

Last Sunday, as I stood atop the dunes of Zoutelande, I took in a breathtaking view. Below me, the coastline buzzed with life: grandparents at the water’s edge with their grandchild, a small sailboat drifting peacefully across the sea, and beside me in the dune grass, a woman absorbed in her book — both of us quietly observing the world below.

These dunes are more than just scenic vantage points. In the Netherlands, they are vital to our survival. Formed over centuries by wind and tide, dunes serve as natural coastal defenses, protecting our low-lying country from storm surges and sea-level rise. Their height, structure, and vegetation act as buffers against the power of the North Sea.

They are also vibrant ecosystems. From hardy dune grasses to rare species like sea holly and sand lizards, dunes are full of life adapted to shifting sands and salty air. Their fragile balance reminds us of how deeply interconnected we are with nature.

So the next time you find yourself on a dune, take a moment. Look out, breathe in, and appreciate this living landscape — a place of peace, protection, and resilience.

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#zoutelande #dunes #duinen #nederlandnatuur #coastaldefense #beachlife #dutchcoast #landscapelovers #coastalecosystems #naturephotography #canon5dmarkiii #ecology #sustainablecoast #sigma100400 #natuurfotografie #coastallandscape #waddenzee #wildnetherlands #erosioncontrol #dunehabitat #dunegrass #protectnature #duneecology #zeeland #zandduinen #lifebythesea #natureinspiration #climateresilience #maikeldebakker #landschapvanzee

Wings Over Water — Zoutelande’s Coastal Birdlife

What do you see when you’re at the sea? Some see waves and endless sky. I see movement, feathers, and stories. At Zoutelande, seabirds are more than background scenery — they are coastal sentinels, perfectly adapted to a life between land and sea.

I photographed a mix of species: adult gulls perched on wave breakers, keeping a watchful eye on the tide, and a juvenile Larus cachinnans (Pontische Meeuw or Caspian Gull) resting quietly on a boardwalk, still growing into its adult plumage. These gulls are skilled opportunists — coastal recyclers playing a vital role in the ecosystem.

Among them, a special guest: Haematopus longirostris, the Australian Pied Oystercatcher. A striking species with a powerful bill and strong personality, often mistaken for a local — but likely a rare visitor or misidentification (since they don't normally appear in Europe). Either way, a reminder of the magic of migration and the surprises nature offers.

Shot with my Canon 5D Mark III and the Sigma 100–400mm lens, these images capture the texture of the coast: salt on the wind, waves on the shore, and wings in the sky.

Where there are birds, there is life — and always something worth protecting.

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#zoutelande #birdphotography #seabirds #pontischemeeuw #laruscachinnans #oystercatcher #haematopuslongirostris #canonwildlife #sigma100400 #wildlifelens #coastallife #dutchcoast #vogelfotografie #birdlovers #coastalbirds #natuurfotografie #naturejournalism #birdwatching #oceanwildlife #shorebirds #ornithology #nederlandnature #featheredfriends #birdsoftheworld #gulls #wildlifeinsight #ecologyawareness #conservationphotography #maikeldebakker #eurobirds #lensbasedstories

Pride Walk – Roze Maandag, Tilburg Kermis (Final Part)
“The Right to Shine”

Yesterday was unforgettable. Not just because of the color, the heat (28°C by the end!), or the crowd — but because of the feeling. For a moment, the noise of the world faded: no wars, no greed, no oppression. Just people being themselves. Free, radiant, proud.

These final images are my favorites, because they capture what this walk is really about — the right to be the best version of yourself. Whether you're loud or quiet, glittering or grounded, Pride celebrates the spectrum of humanity in all its vibrant truth.

Love was in the air — and with it came a flicker of hope. Hope that we can build a future where equality, science, sustainability, and kindness are the foundations of our society. A world where everyone shines, not just a few.

As a humble photographer, I’m honored to reflect that light. Let’s not let this be just a dream. Let’s walk forward together — for each other, for nature, for justice.

With love,
Maikel de Bakker
📸 Just here to help you shine.

#pridewalk2025 #rozemaandag #tilburgsekermis #lgbtqia #freedomtobe #shinebright #bornthisway #righttobeyou #celebratediversity #equalrights #sustainabilitynow #photowithpurpose #canon5dmarkiii #sigma100400 #hopeforhumanity #inclusionforall #loveiseverything #communitymatters #documentingtruth #peaceandpride #tilburgpride #togetherforchange #supportallidentities #proudphotographer #fromtheheart #humanityfirst #diversitymatters #scienceandhope #standupforlove #maikeldebakker

Pride Walk – Roze Maandag, Tilburg Kermis (Part 4)
“Born This Way”

In a world where being yourself isn’t always safe, accepted, or even allowed, Pride Walks like this one matter more than ever. They offer visibility, solidarity, and celebration to those whose identities are often silenced.

I’m proud to live in a country where we embrace the beauty of diversity — where no matter your skin color, body type, religion, or heritage, your identity deserves respect and joy. Pride is not just for the LGBTQIA+ community; it is for everyone who believes in freedom of expression and equality. Even if you’re straight — you’re welcome to walk, support, learn, and celebrate. That’s how we build inclusive societies: together.

The portraits in this post — taken with my Canon 5D Mark III and Sigma 100–400mm lens — capture just a few of the powerful, beautiful individuals who walked with pride, dignity, and color. The wide shots, from my Canon 7D Mark II and 15–85mm lens, show just how many hearts and banners filled the streets. And yes, the city was awash in pink — and it was perfect.

Because no one should ever have to hide who they are.

#bornthisway #pridewalk2025 #rozemaandag #tilburgsekermis #inclusionmatters #canon5dmarkiii #sigma100400 #canon7dmarkii #diversityisbeautiful #prideforeveryone #lgbtqia #identitymatters #freedomtobe #equalityforall #celebratediversity #photodocumentary #queervisibility #supportallidentities #communitysupport #dutchpride #intersectionalpride #standwithpride #tilburgcity #loveisfree #humanrightsforall #fromtheheart #belongingmatters #inclusivesociety #prideandpeace #allarewelcome #togetherwecelebrate

Pride Walk – Roze Maandag, Tilburg Kermis (Part 3)
“Don’t Be a Drag, Just Be a Queen”

As Lady Gaga sang it — and these queens lived it — the Pride Walk in Tilburg gave center stage to the art, power, and flamboyant joy of drag.

These photos are a tribute to the performers who graced the streets in towering heels, layers of glitter, and personalities even bigger than their wigs. Some looks were polished to perfection, others wonderfully over-the-top — but each one was a bold, beautiful statement of visibility and celebration.

Drag is not just entertainment — it's protest, expression, performance, and empowerment. It challenges norms, flips gender expectations, and radiates self-love in every shimmering sequin. As I weaved through the crowd (without bumping a soul, thank you very much 😄), I couldn’t help but feel both admiration and awe for these living works of art.

Shot with my Canon 5D Mark III and Sigma 100–400mm lens, I tried to capture the poise, humor, and pure joy that these queens brought to Roze Maandag. From confident poses to spontaneous laughter — this was Pride in motion.

Because in a world that often tries to dull our shine, drag reminds us: it’s okay to take up space, to be seen, and to be fabulous doing it.

#rozemaandag #pridewalktilburg #dragqueenpower #lgbtqia #queerjoy #canon5dmarkiii #sigma100400 #tilburgsekermis #dragculture #beproud #inclusivitymatters #dragcommunity #visibilitymatters #genderexpression #streetphotography #dutchpride #makeupasart #heelsandhope #fierceandfree #artinmotion #queerrepresentation #dragisart #sparklewithpurpose #publicperformance #lovewins #standoutshineon #dragbrilliance #prideparade #performativeactivism #photodocumentary #bornthisway