About Willemijn
my
Story
A Journey through photography and nature
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My name is Willemijn Sieffers, and I have been working in
photography for about 25 years.
What started in 1996 evolved into an intensive search for the power of imagery. My first camera was an analog SLR, and I soon began experimenting with different formats, from 6x6 roll film cameras to digital photography. Over the years, my work has become a fusion of analog and digital techniques, allowing me to continuously explore new ways to express my artistic vision.
Since the beginning, I have always pushed myself to grow both technically and artistically. Working alongside various photographers, I gained invaluable insights into both the technical aspects and the artistic approach to photography. These experiences helped me refine my own style, leading me to establish myself as an independent photographer in 2007—an important milestone in shaping my career and personal approach to the craft.
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A Timeless Approach
Beyond my printing techniques, I am also fascinated by the diptych format, where two images are presented together. This approach allows me to explore contrasts and connections between images, revealing new meanings and narratives. By placing photographs side by side, I strive to tell deeper stories—ones that might not be immediately visible but emerge through their interaction.
Although much of my work is in black and white, my approach remains diverse. Photography, for me, is a way of storytelling that extends beyond the surface reality. My images aim to evoke emotions and thoughts that are difficult to express in words but manifest through visual language. I hope my work inspires viewers to look beyond what is in front of them—to find their own interpretation in the interplay of light, texture, and time.
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Nature as Inspiration
Nature plays a central role in my work and serves as a constant source of inspiration. I spend a great deal of time outdoors, observing the landscape and marveling at the subtle changes in light and atmosphere. Nature is not just a visual muse but also a place of introspection. In moments of stillness and deep connection with my surroundings, I translate my emotions and ideas into imagery that extends beyond the immediate visual experience.
My artistic journey has led me to explore alternative printing techniques to enhance my images further. One of the most significant developments in my work has been my discovery of the Toyobo technique, a traditional Japanese printing method that allows me to add subtle texture and depth to my images. By incorporating this technique, I blur the boundaries between digital and physical mediums, giving my work an added dimension. Toyobo printing enables me to play with both imagery and material in a way that feels organic and tactile—an essential part of my creative process.
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Sharing Knowledge & Exhibiting Work
In addition to my work as a photographer, I regularly teach workshops and mentor emerging photographers. Sharing my knowledge and experience is something I truly enjoy, as it continuously challenges and strengthens my own artistic practice. Engaging with other creatives keeps my perspective fresh and allows me to explore the many ways photography can be approached.
A significant milestone in my career is the exhibition of my Toyobo pieces at the art gallery What Is Happening Here (WIHH) in Amsterdam in 2025.
This exhibition is a wonderful opportunity to present my work in a physical space, allowing viewers to experience the texture, depth, and timeless quality of my prints firsthand. Seeing my work in a gallery setting reinforces my passion for bridging the gap between traditional and modern photographic techniques, creating pieces that resonate on both an emotional and artistic level.
Looking ahead, I aim to keep evolving, discovering new techniques, and challenging myself to see the world with fresh eyes. Photography is not just a profession for me—it is a way of life. My journey is driven by an endless curiosity for nature, storytelling, and the timeless quality of the photographic image. Through my work, I hope to share this vision with a wider audience and invite others to step into the stillness, the beauty, and the stories hidden within the landscape.
Would you like to explore more? Feel free to browse my latest collections and immerse yourself in the artistry of nature.
