The day begins early, while the world remains in deep sleep and the sky slowly turns a gentle shade of blue. From the dike at Colijnsplaat , on enchanting Noord-Beveland , my view stretches across the serene Oosterschelde . In the distance rises the impressive Zeelandbrug , its graceful lines reflected in the calm water. As the very first rays of sunlight appear, the sun steadily climbs upward, perfectly aligned next to one of the sturdy bridge pillars. This magical scene occurs only once a day, and this morning I am fortunate to witness it.
Capturing the Magic: Photography at the Zeelandbrug
I want to capture this fleeting beauty, so I place my camera securely on a tripod. I select a long exposure setting. As a result, the water gradually transforms into a glistening, silky-smooth mirror.
At the same time, clouds drift lazily across the sky. They leave delicate streaks through their subtle movement. By slightly increasing the aperture, a small yet radiant burst of sunlight emerges. It is framed perfectly between steel and concrete. This is a harmonious moment where nature and engineering blend seamlessly. It is visible only to those who take the time to watch.
Savouring the Moment by the Water
After carefully capturing the scene, I slowly pack away my equipment. Instead of leaving immediately, I sit down at the edge of the dike and pour myself a warm cup of coffee. With every sip, I continue to enjoy the tranquil view. The soft lapping of the water against the shore and the distant calls of seabirds create a soothing soundtrack. Ultimately, what remains is not only the photograph but also the memory of peace and connection with this remarkable place. These moments – when landscapes meet emotion – are what make photographing at the Zeelandbrug so special. That is precisely why I return time and time again, knowing that every sunrise tells a brand-new story.
PS: Did you know that you can not only purchase my work as a beautiful print, but also support my photography journey? Visit ko-fi.com/sanderpoppe and contribute – every bit of support helps me capture and share new moments.
View more photos via the link, which, like this one, are part of my portfolio ‘Lakes & Rivers‘.