About ‘A storm is approaching the beach’ by Geert Van Baelen
A photograph I took on the Dutch north coast. An impressive blanket of clouds is gathering above the coast, whilst an approaching storm casts an almost surreal atmosphere over the beach. The dark, threatening clouds form a stark contrast to the dunes and the light-coloured sand in the foreground. Scattered amongst the marram grass and…
A photograph I took on the Dutch north coast. An impressive blanket of clouds is gathering above the coast, whilst an approaching storm casts an almost surreal atmosphere over the beach. The dark, threatening clouds form a stark contrast to the dunes and the light-coloured sand in the foreground. Scattered amongst the marram grass and the rolling dunes are a few beach huts, whilst a couple of beachgoers remain on the shore. The tranquillity on the beach stands in stark contrast to the power that seems to be building up above the horizon.
This black-and-white photograph captures the raw beauty of the coast at a moment when the weather could suddenly take a turn for the worse. The choice of monochrome brings out the various shades, textures and details of the landscape particularly well. The imposing cloud formations, in particular, catch the eye and lend the image a dramatic quality.
The combination of beach, dunes, menacing clouds and stormy weather makes this photograph particularly suitable for lovers of atmospheric coastal photography and black-and-white photography. The image evokes a sense of stillness and anticipation, as if nature were holding its breath for a moment before the storm breaks.
An atmospheric view of the Belgian or Dutch coast, where the sea, beach and dunes are constantly changing under the influence of the weather. A dramatic coastal landscape for those who love powerful nature shots, minimalist photography and timeless black-and-white images.
Geert Van Baelen has been working as a press photographer in Belgium for over 20 years. Besides current affairs, he also finds inspiration for his images in everyday life, landscapes and people.