Under the Drenthe sun

by Sonja Koolen Fotografie

A herd of cattle moves peacefully across the open countryside of Drenthe. Amidst the tall grass and vast fields, the animals seek shelter beneath a large tree. The warm brown tones of the cattle contrast beautifully with the soft green and the more muted colours of the grassland.

What appeals to me most about this image is the simplicity of the moment. The animals stand almost in a long line across the landscape and all seem to have the same goal: to find a bit of shade on a warm day. The large tree forms a natural focal point, lending the photograph depth and balance.

This is exactly the sort of scene that makes me reach for my camera. Not a staged moment, but simply observing what is happening in nature and trying to capture the tranquillity of that moment.

To me, this photograph exudes space, simplicity and the tranquillity of outdoor life. A typical rural scene in which animals and landscape naturally form a single whole. Thanks to the natural, soft colours, the piece fits beautifully into an interior where tranquillity and a connection with nature take centre stage.