Dive into the captivating world of Dutch wildlife photographer Joy Van Der Beek, whose passion for nature and photography intertwines seamlessly. Based in the Netherlands, Joy’s love for traveling and exploring the world’s diverse ecosystems fuels her work. From a young age, she has been fascinated by the behavior of animals, a curiosity that now finds its expression through her camera lens.
Joy’s photography celebrates the unique and precious wildlife that inhabits our planet, capturing moments that highlight the beauty and fragility of nature. For her, every shot is a reminder of the responsibility we share to protect wildlife and preserve its habitats for future generations. Read her story and discover her passion for wildlife photography in this inspiring episode of “Lens Stories.”
What is Lens Stories?
Photography has the unique ability to capture the essence of the world, turning moments into timeless stories. Every image reflects the vision and dedication of the photographer behind the lens, shaped by their individual path and passion. Through “Lens Stories,” CYME explores these fascinating narratives, offering a glimpse into the techniques and inspirations that define their artistry. As developers of innovative tools to simplify and enhance photographers’ workflows, we are proud to support their creative journeys and celebrate the craft that brings their visions to life.
The Beginnings and Evolution of a Passion for Wildlife Photography
I started photographing when I was really young because my mother and father where photographing also. It started with candid pictures and documenting holidays as a 5 year old girl. I kept documenting and taking candid photos for long time. It was only in 2017 that I bought my first L series lens from Canon that I became more enthousiastic of taking my photography to a higher level.
During Covid I started exploring the nature around my own city and started improving my skills by just keep photographing. My interest for Wildlife was always been there and so my main subject in photography is Wildlife.
Exploring Joy Van Der Beek’s Philosophy on Wildlife Photography
I love being in nature. I am totally at ease when I am outside. When I spot Wildlife I am in my happy zone! I can really enjoy being alone with animals in their natural habitat. I talk a lot with fellow photographers about how you take the picture and I came to the conclusion that with me it is all about the feeling. I am not thinking all the time about “the rules” for a good photograph. I am all in the moment and feel if something works out or not.
Most of the time when I get home and look at my photos I am suprrised it worked out great! Sometimes I get disappointed because I did not pay enough attention at details. Than I have to go back and hope for a simular moment and similar conditions to make the photo better than the first time. Composition wise I know what works and what not works in general and from that point on I just try and work out the best placement of the subject in the frame.
I also learn a lot by looking at photos I really love from fellow photographers. I love realistic colors and popping colors in photographs. Contrasting colors too give a picture more vibrant feeling. I experiment still with other kinds of color contrasts or just monotone photos. My style is not yet settled in one style.
Do you like Joy's story?
3 Key Takeaways from Joy Van Der Beek’s Wildlife Photography Adventures
Love Your Own Photos
Photography Is Not Lonely
Connect with Locals
People who are not photographing are always interested in what you are doing outside by yourself with a high telephoto lens. They are always curious if you are a professional or not. I always mention I am a huge fanatic hobbyist. By connecting with people in local areas, you can also find hidden gems.
People not into photography can sometimes share a beautiful sighting they did and send you in the right directions. I never have asked random people about beautiful sightings. They always told me by thereselves because of the smalltalk we made and they were interested in the huge lens and what I am doing.
The Unexpected for Wildlife Photography Full of Emotion
Practical Tips from Joy Van Der Beek for New Wildlife Photographers
I think mistakes are there to get you further in your photography. By just trying and falling and getting up again you can progress in your photography a lot. A mistake I made early on in my photography is maybe trying to learn about it by just reading. When in fact just doing and talking about it with other photographers is the key.
Join a phototrip or a photoclub is maybe a good thing when you don’t have many photo friends around you. Asking honest critics about your photography and being open about it will be a huge step into growing more and more in your photoskills. Do not be afraid to fail and to ask a lot of questions. If you really want to improve yourself just set your mind to it and go for it!
Show Your Support for Wildlife Photographer Joy Van Der Beek
Let’s come together to celebrate photographers and their remarkable contributions! I encourage you to dive into the captivating world of wildlife photography with Joy Van Der Beek on her Instagram. Your encouragement is invaluable to these skilled artists who craft mesmerizing stories through their unique perspectives.
