On a dreamy morning, I stood at the end of the pier in Gorishoek , a small hamlet along the Oosterschelde on the island of Tholen in Zeeland, the Netherlands. A soft sky of pastel colors wrapped the world, slowly giving way to the warm glow of sunrise. As nature awakened, the view transformed into a living painting. The first rays lit the horizon in shades of pink and gold, while gentle clouds drifted across the water.
Capturing Calm with Long Exposure
I set my camera for long exposure photography , capturing the shifting light and the stillness of the moment. The rippling water became smooth and silky, while seabirds called in the distance under the vast sky. Standing there, I breathed in the crisp, salty air – a rare moment of perfect calm, where every sense reconnected with nature.
A Fisherman Changes the Plan
While I framed my trusted composition, a fisherman unexpectedly walked into view, erasing my planned shot. Instead of waiting, I searched for a new angle – and found a pleasant surprise. Using a fast shutter speed, I caught the rhythm of water lapping against the pier and the dike. The soft morning light painted warm, delicate tones on both the water and the sky.
Just then, a large jellyfish drifted past my boots – a striking encounter, though it never made it into the frame. That moment reminded me that every photograph in Gorishoek tells its own story, sometimes even better than planned.
Gorishoek , part of the Oosterschelde National Park , is a place where time seems to pause. Whether you come to photograph, walk, or simply be still, a morning visit leaves a lasting impression. The interplay of light, nature, and tranquillity makes sunrise here unforgettable. It’s a place you don’t just see – you feel it deep inside.
View more photos via the link, which, like this one, are part of my portfolio ‘Lakes & Rivers’.