#1 Artist interview - Fack_photography

In our blog series ''Get to know the artist'' we introduce on of the artists on Picfee.

In just 5 questions, you will learn more about the style, motivations
and experiences of the artist in question.

We start with none other than Patrick van Dijk, better known as Fack_Photography, a well-known photographer from the Port of Rotterdam and its city. With more than 100,000 followers on various social media, he is a household name in the Port of Rotterdam and the rest of the Netherlands. Time to get to know him a little better. kennen.

Windsurf

1. Who are you, what do you do and what gear do you prefer to use?

Hey, everyone! I am Patrick van Dijk, 39 years old and currently living in Delft. Here I live with my girlfriend and daughter. In daily life, I work on a push boat in inland navigation. For some time now, I have also started my own business as a photographer. When I am not at work or with my family, you can often find me in the harbour with my camera.

Gear: Nikon 800 + Sigma art 2435 lens.

2. Which style within photography do you prefer?

For those familiar with my work, it might be a bit obvious, but I always get excited by Maritime night photography. For me, these photos are also the whole reason I started photography. Indeed, 5 years ago, I started photography on our pusher. Back then, I took my shots with my mobile phone. As time went by, I became more and more proficient at this and decided it was time for a camera. At the time, not knowing exactly what I was doing, I bought a second-hand Panasonic camera. Now years later, shooting at night and within the maritime sector is still my favourite part within photography. Being able to shoot from our boat often gives me a unique perspective and, if I do say so myself, sometimes makes for cool shots. I also believe this has become my specialism in recent years.

Let's go.

3. In terms of photography, who is your big role model/inspiration?

Justin leDuc has been an inspiration to me in recent years. Even though our photography styles do not correspond at all. I fell in love with his work especially because of his way of editing. The way he combines his light construction with masks and neon lights makes him one of my sources of inspiration. 

4. What is your favourite work of yours?

Oeh that's hard to choose. I have a few that I am hugely attached to. One is that of the Sleipnir, another is one from my swan series and one of my most popular is that of the Sinteler (large sailing ship). But if I may mention one record, it is surely that of the Sleipnir. Surely, given the complete composition, that is the one I am most proud of.

Sleipnir framed in walnut frame with anti reflection glass

5. What tip / skill would you like to share with any other photographer?

What I like to share with other photographers is that when shooting at night, you can benefit enormously from your camera's settings. For example, for night photography I recommend taking the setting; ISO100 F6.3 6 seconds. With this setting, in my opinion, you can capture at least 80% of your night photos with it.