In the coming weeks, I will be exploring Egypt, so here’s a taste from last year’s trip.
This week’s throwback is very much focused on some of the upcoming photography that I will share with all of you! During the coming 2 weeks, I will be spending some more quality time in the wonderful country of Egypt, a place rich in history and culture that has always captivated my imagination. I will explore some iconic sites that I have not been to before, including serene landscapes and the bustling city of Alexandria. Additionally, I will return to some of my favorite locations that I have previously visited, where I hope to capture new perspectives and experiences through my lens.
For today, I present you with a throwback to both last year’s visit, and antiquity…
Ancient and Modern
The pyramids of Giza are probably the best-known monuments of the ancient world, standing as towering symbols of a civilization that has long since passed but continues to captivate the imagination of people worldwide. These massive structures, built thousands of years ago, are truly impressive testaments to human ingenuity and engineering skills, showcasing remarkable precision and planning that would astound modern architects. Dating back to a time when simple machines were all that was available, the construction of the pyramids involved a complex organization of labor, resources, and knowledge that highlights the extraordinary capabilities of the ancient Egyptians. Each pyramid, meticulously designed and constructed, served as a grand tomb for pharaohs, reflecting both their wealth and status, while also demonstrating their belief in the afterlife and the importance of preserving their legacy for eternity. The incredible alignment of the pyramids with celestial bodies further illustrates the advanced understanding of astronomy that the ancient builders possessed.
A Fresh Perspective
Photography is more than just a vehicle for capturing the world around me; it provides me with a palette and a set of brushes, with which I paint not only what I see, but also look to express the emotions that are evoked by the scene in front of me in that moment.
Growing up in the Netherlands exposed me to a wide cross-section of visual arts that laid the foundation of my photographic view of all that surrounds me. Early influences were the Dutch Masters of the 17th century, to whom I was introduced by my grandfather during museum explorations; favorites among them are the scenes of quotidian life depicted by Jan Steen and Frans Hals and the vivid landscapes of Jacob van Ruisdael.
My classical high school education was supplemented by the Boijmans Van Beuningen museum, where I spent many a lunch hour exploring its great collection. Here I was introduced to surrealism with a particular love for the approach taken by Salvador Dali; Dali also rekindled my appreciation for the work of Hieronymus Bosch, who often showed the folly of us mortals.
Universal Connections
My approach to any photographic subject is to look for understanding first; in this I look to establish either a connection between the viewer and the subject or capture the connection of the subject with its surroundings. The captured image then aims to portray this connection from a perspective that is part of my personal interpretation.
This interpretation is often a form of externalized introspection, which may alternately display the connection of isolated beings and items with their environment or highlight the whimsy of the profound world, in which we find ourselves. The universe is full of connections, many of which are waiting to be discovered; part of my journey as a photographer is to document these connections.
Any assignment, be it an event, a product shoot or a portrait session is always approached through communication with the client; this is where the first connection is established. Ideas are exchanged and a collaborative plan of action forms, ultimately resulting in a set of images that aim to exceed the expectations of each client.
And, lest we forget, it is important to have fun while practicing the serious business of photography!
View all posts by jansenphoto
