05/12/2022
Today something amazing happened, I can't fully believe it, but I won a very special award. I'm one of the 30 rising stars of wedding photography, granted by the very prestigious New York's Rangefinder Magazine. In my industry... it's kind of a big deal, and I am just so grateful, honored and humbled.
I know there are many talented photographers in this world... like.. so many. And therefore being awarded this way makes me go very quiet. Because why? Why me?
But maybe I think I know why... Two days ago I was asked to take pictures of a Diamond Wedding celebration. This couple have been married for 60 years. And for the people who know me... When I see people who have lived this earth for decades, my soul takes over. I am drawn to the stories, the memories, the energy.
At the end of my shoot, everyone was in tears. It was one of the most emotional shoots I've ever done. And I felt so grateful to have been part of it. And this feeling I have every time. And on the way back I wondered... why do I always feel this way? Like I am part of them? How is this possible, I don't even know them. And I realised... I might not know them.. but on a soul level we are all connected. And I have been given this amazing gift, that I can see and capture this. Deep, meaningful, soul moments.
Throughout the years I came to understandthat not everyone is granted this ability... So I am extremely happy to be able to do this and I will continue to do this for as long as it is possible.
This is the link to all the winners, and I'm super proud to be part of it.
https://www.rangefinderonline.com/news-features/industry-news/our-30-rising-stars-of-wedding-photography-2022/
Some editors words:
When asked to describe her photographic style, Kim den Hartog is quick to respond: “I kind of close my eyes and follow the energy.”
She continues: “I am a self-taught photographer who uses her subconscious to connect to people. Somehow, I feel it is not me taking the images, but something else inside of me—call it my soul, my subconscious, it doesn’t matter. All I know is that I don’t think when I shoot, I simply feel the energy and images come naturally. It’s not something I do on purpose; it is a creative outlet of my being.”
Again, I am very proud, humbled and a bit in awe...
I hope to continue my work through photography, hypnotherapy, speaking and writing. It's time people get connected with their true selves again and I want to help people find and see their own soul.
