Light is magical phenomenon. I consider it elusive, volatile, changing. As a nature photographer I am in a constant persue-mode or hunt for light. Sometimes it feels like a struggle. A cat-and-mouse game to get the right composition and exposure and to capture the right moment that generates the awe-effect. Despite all preparations it is always to be seen if reality is in correspondence with my prediction. This is a photo of a part of a flock of yellow-hammers frequenting a set-aside field.

Best wishes for 2012! Niels

It has been said many times, In The Netherlands there is no real nature. It depends how one defines it or how one feels it, but it is true that there are few places where men have not been dominant in the creation of landscape. However, it is possible to experience a sense of virginity. I had this feeling profoundly when I was walking in the only intact peat-bog swamp forest in The Netherlands, at Witterveld. Unspoiled by exploitation through forestry, peat extraction, or other activities, a little treasure has evolved , just next to the TT-race circuit and large scale peat extraction areas. On a cold foggy morning the hoar frost has covered everything under a crystal blanket. The birches here are not more than four meters high, yet several decades old. I imagine being in Sweden.

Cheers, Niels