MICHAEL VAN DE VEN Helpful, creative, eager to learn, and a touch perfectionistic are words that describe me well. I am always looking for new styles, perspectives, and different ways to capture something—or someone—beautifully in an image. By following many courses and workshops throughout the Netherlands, I continue to develop my style and skills. In everyday life, I work in IT, where I focus on software and infrastructure. Two years ago, I decided that I wanted to try studio lighting. While searching for a workshop on this subject, I found a great studio very close to home: Dragon Studio. The relaxed atmosphere, pleasant conversations, strong focus on photography, and the knowledge you can practically pick up from the air are all reasons why I enjoy visiting FotoUnie. I love being able to focus solely on my camera for a while. When taking photos in the studio, I am constantly asking myself, “What do I truly find most beautiful?” Over the past few years, I have increasingly focused on flash photography. It offers a lot of control, and everything can be manipulated and refined. In the coming years, I want to further develop my skills in flash photography, particularly in the use of color. Despite my love for shooting with flash, I chose to show something different here. In between the hustle and bustle of work, I really enjoy visiting the Efteling with my wife and our one-year-old daughter. I love getting some fresh air while walking through the fairytale forest with the stroller, all the while taking photos. I hope you can enjoy the result as much as I enjoyed creating it.