Workshop in "Het Leudal" // The last colors of Autumn

Today I gave another photography workshop in my local nature reserve. “Het Leudal” for two nice guys from Belgium. My clients were really into learning how to find new compositions, look for leading lines, framing, and just looking and experiencing a forest (in this case) for photography. Also very much to just slow down and enjoy nature ofcourse.

We did walk about 9km through the area and encountered a lot of nice places. Some Leudal classics, and beautiful random encounters. Some interesting conversations about photography accompanied us during our walks. We all had a great day. Thank you for joining me today guys, and to you: Thanks for checking out this blogpost. Below is a selection of photographs from today.

The Classic. A long exposure at the watermill in Het Leudal

A well spotted beautiful leaf with waterdrops by one of the participants. I had to shoot it too ofcourse.

The beautiful landscape in Het Leudal

Beautiful Blooming Heather Photography

Waking up early has always been the secret to capturing the most breathtaking moments in nature. As the first rays of dawn began to streak the sky, I found myself among the blooming heath, adorned with delicate flowers in vibrant hues. The air was crisp and calm, carrying the whispers of anticipation. Patiently, I set up my camera, adjusting every lens and dial with precision. In the tender morning light, the heath seemed to come alive, each petal awakening with the promise of a new day. As I waited for the sun to crest above the horizon, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty unfolding before me. The colors danced and mingled, creating a symphony of vibrant imagery. The stillness of the early morning amplified my appreciation, as if time stood still just for this moment. I truly love that serene atmosphere.

Ninlingspo River in Autumn - Belgium - Photo's & Cinematic Video

A few days ago I went on a daytrip some 1,5h from home. Into the Belgian region called “De Ardennen”. Here you have a completely different landscape then what I am used to at home. Mountainlike valleys, very big and dense forests, forest streams with cascades and small waterfalls and just a lot of space. As it is early Autumn I was hoping to catch this forest with some good colors. And although the transition in colors hasn’t been fully completed yet, the forest still looked really nice.

The Ninglinspo is the only mountain river in Belgium and the trail along this river has the same name. The Ninglinspo is a unique hike in the Ardennes and I recommend it to everyone. Located in the south of the Ardennes, near Aywaille and Remouchamps, you can enjoy the beauty of nature, the waterfalls, the adventurous trails and the wild character of the nature in the area.

Admittedly, the name is complicated. But the beauty of the route near Aywaille is stunning. The trail follows the course of the mountain stream. This walk is a true classic and has therefore been declared an 'Exceptional Natural Heritage of Wallonia'.

You walk along paths and over bridges from one side of the river to the other. The difference in height of 350 meters over three kilometers creates waterfalls. Natural pools have been carved out by the force of the water. These listen to pretty names like "bath of Diana". The water can whirl wildly when it has rained heavily, while in a dry period the river gently flows downstream. Put on your walking shoes, bring food and drink for a picnic and walk this idyllic route. And don’t forget your camera!

Check out this video I have shot during my daytrip there, nice and slow moving cinematic shots to unwind and relax. And maybe get inspired to make it out to place yourself?

Forest Photography - Fog & Soft Light - Fujifilm XT4

Early morning in the local forest with a nice amount of fog and beautiful light. I had a rough night sleep, woke up way to early. And heading out in the forest was medicine for body and soul. When wandering out in the nature with these conditions you just calm down. Slow down and just start to feel better straight away. All shots were taken with my FujiFilm XT4 and a 16-80mm F4 lens, handheld.