Thomas Vanderheyden, a French nature photographer, hails from Pont-Sainte-Maxence. Thomas was always fascinated by flowers and insects. He has a romantic view of colors and shapes.
Bokeh is described by him as “soft and structured at the same time. They bring the touch dream and romance to my photographic approach, without the subject being drowned out in the composition.”
Thank you, Thomas, for accepting our invitation. Please continue reading.
You?
I was born in Paris and now live in Pont Ste Maxence, at the foothills of the Halatte Forest (a beautiful forest with a rich flora & fauna), located in the Regional Park of Oise. I am 39, married to the beautiful woman of the world and a happy father of two children.
What sparked your interest in photography and how did you get started?
Prior to the photo I was always passionate about insects and flowers. When I was little, I would spend days watching insects. It fascinated me. In 2011, I bought my first SLR, but it wasn’t until 2012 that I started “macro”, with my Tamron Lens. When I first started, I learned a great deal on Facebook groups and various forums.
What made you interested in nature photography and why?
Photographing fauna and flora is my passion.
What catches your eye to create such beautiful photographs?
I’m a romantic. The shapes and colors around me are what inspire me. I improvise a lot if I find a subject or environment that I like. Not to mention, the light.
Why is Bokeh special to you?
The bokeh I use is soft and structured. They add a touch of romance and dream to my photography without drowning the subject.
Please share your post-processing technique.
I use a very simple post-processing technique. I shoot in raw, develop the files in Adobe Raw Camera, then export the files in Photoshop. I often use a radial filtration to darken the surroundings around the subject and create edges with slight contrasts. Infrequently, I will stamp some parasitic or blur an element at the bottom of a photograph (since this year).
One thing you have learned through photography, you would want to share with our readers?
To improve nothing better than to practice.
What has been the most flattering compliment you have received?
My style, which is recognized by the public and provides a dream in a world full of brutality, has been a source of encouragement and inspiration.
What are your favorite photography books?
Wild orchids in our Laurent Bessol and Caroline Lesage regions
What’s your personal motto?
Have fun above all else, stay humble and respect nature.
Who are your real-life heroes?
I do not really have heroes right now, my heroes will be these men who will succeed by their acts to make our planet livable for our children.
What is Love?
Love, a word so short but so great at the same time. love gave itself without taking back.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I am also a landscape photographer and enjoy walking in the mountains. I like to relax in the woods. Regular swimming helps me relieve stress.
Thank you for allowing 121 Clicks to interview with you. What final words would you like to share with our readers?
It is the first interview I have had with someone from outside of my country and I find it very touching.
Look around and be aware of all the things that are happening around you. This will inspire you.
