Nature through Mirjam's Lens

In October 2022, while recovering from Long Covid, Mirjam received a monocular as a gift from her partner. This simple tool, which allows you to attach a smartphone to a spotting scope, literally and figuratively opened up a whole new world for her. From her living room, which borders a small patch of forest, she could capture birds, squirrels, and other wildlife without overexerting herself. The reactions from friends and family to her photos inspired her to start an Instagram account: birdwatching_veluwe by Mirjam. Today, a growing community of followers enjoys her photos on a daily basis.

Shortly after, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. In addition to the support she received from the kind people around her, photography became her anchor. It turned into her happy place – a safe space to focus on beauty in the midst of hard times.

Through her experiences, Mirjam learned to see differently. She discovered that photography isn’t about expensive gear – it’s about attention and patience. Sometimes she waits for hours to catch the perfect moment; sometimes an image appears spontaneously during a walk. Her aunt and uncle, who used to teach photography courses, supported her learning process with old course materials. Quietly observing nature gave Mirjam energy and focus. Through this deep concentration, she captures not just animals, but moments full of emotion and character moments that move the viewer and tell a story.

Nature is Mirjam’s greatest source of inspiration. The small, often unnoticed moments that only reveal themselves if you truly look bring her the greatest sense of fulfillment. Her illness taught her to live more consciously and to pay closer attention to details.

Besides photography, she works full-time, and in her spare time she enjoys being with family and friends. Sport also plays an important role in her life. Mirjam is grateful that she can now kickbox and run again, preferably on the trails of the Veluwe. Exercise not only helps her become physically stronger, but also mentally: it gives her space to process and let go. The combination of sport, work, nature and creativity ensures that Mirjam continually finds energy and inspiration to further develop her passion for photography and share it with the world.