I ran a quick editing test in Luminar Neo, Adobe Camera Raw, and Lightroom. Ideally, I would have used the exact same photo across all three apps… but well, I didn’t.

Still, I’m happy with all three results.

Some workflows were more complex (Adobe Camera Raw and Lightroom), while others lacked certain options (Luminar Neo — for example, background blur).

In the end, the differences are surprisingly minimal.

I would recommend all three apps:

• Luminar Neo for photographers who want a fast, intuitive workflow
• Lightroom for a balanced, efficient, and consistent editing process
• and for those who really know what they’re doing in Photoshop… well, Photoshop is still Photoshop

This was also a test shoot for my new Tamron 35–150mm — my first time using a non-Nikkor lens.

First impressions:

• very sharp
• the focal range is perfect for this type of shoot
• f/2–2.8 throughout the zoom range is a huge advantage

Downsides?

• no image stabilization (irrelevant here since I shoot on a tripod)
• and the weight… it’s heavy

Because of that, I’ll definitely need a tripod ring. The lens is difficult to fine-tune due to its weight, and there’s a real risk of it slowly “drooping” over time, which can ruin framing (yes, learned that the hard way).

Conclusion: time to get a tripod ring for the Tamron 35–150mm. I’ll test it and share an update once it arrives — I need it within the next two days, so I’d better hurry.

The post Luminar vs Lightroom vs ACR: Real Editing Test in Food Photography appeared first on Bsilvia.Com.

Not just casually thinking — the kind of thinking where it quietly sits in the back of your mind, waiting for the right moment, the right gear, and honestly… the right energy.

At some point, I stopped thinking and actually did it.

I bought a Nikon body and had it converted for infrared photography in Germany by IRreCams. It felt like a bit of a commitment — this wasn’t just trying a new preset or playing with filters. This was a different way of seeing.

And then, of course, life happened.

Work picked up. Days filled up. And the camera sat there, ready.

Until today.

First Walk, No Excuses

Today I finally went out to shoot.

I took the camera, added my Firecrest IR filter on the 70–200mm Nikkor f/2.8, and just… walked. No pressure, no expectations — just trying to understand what infrared actually feels like in real life.

And Bruges, as always, was beautiful.

But also… full.

Tourists everywhere.

Which is, ironically, one of the biggest challenges when you’re trying to shoot clean architectural frames. People in the streets, people in the canals, boats drifting into compositions at exactly the wrong moment — it becomes a game of patience.

Or avoidance 😄

Where Are the Leaves?

One thing became obvious immediately:

Infrared photography really comes alive with foliage.

And right now?

Nothing.

No leaves, no blooming trees, no glowing white IR magic. Just bare branches and stone textures. Which is not bad — just very different from the classic infrared look.

So instead of chasing the “typical” IR aesthetic, I leaned into contrast, light, and structure.

And that’s where it started to get interesting.

Light Over Everything

Infrared forces you to see light differently.

It’s not about color anymore — it’s about how surfaces react, how the sky shifts, how textures separate.

I found myself focusing on:

• strong shadows
• architectural lines
• dramatic skies
• clean compositions

And suddenly, Bruges looked… different.

Quieter. Stronger. More graphic.

The Missing Night Walks

One thing I really felt today:

I miss my night walks.

That time when the city empties out, when everything slows down, when you can actually take your time and wait for the frame.

Lately, I’ve been working a lot. Walking a lot. Shooting for others.

And by the time the evening comes, I don’t always have the energy to go out again just for myself.

But infrared made me want that back.

Because this kind of photography isn’t rushed. It’s not reactive.

It’s intentional.

First Impressions

So, was it worth it?

Absolutely.

But not in the way I expected.

Infrared isn’t a gimmick. It’s not a shortcut to “cool images.” If anything, it’s more demanding. You have to slow down, observe more, and accept that not every scene will work.

But when it does — it really does.

This was just the beginning.

And next time… I’m waiting for the leaves.

What I Learned from My First Infrared Shoot (So You Don’t Have to Guess)

After this first walk doing infrared photography in Bruges, a few things became very clear — and if you’re thinking about trying it, these infrared photography tips might save you some time.

1. Infrared Needs the Right Season

Right now, Bruges is still in that in-between phase.

No leaves, no lush trees, no glowing white foliage — which is what infrared photography is famous for.

That means:

• less “wow effect”
• more reliance on composition and light

—>> If you want that classic infrared look, wait for spring or summer.

2. Light Matters More Than Ever

Infrared photography is not forgiving.

Flat light = flat image.

What worked best today:

• strong directional light
• deep shadows
• contrast between surfaces

—>> Think in terms of structure, not color.

3. Busy Cities Are a Challenge

Bruges is beautiful… but also very busy.

Tourists everywhere.
Boats on the canals.
People walking straight into your frame.

—>> Infrared doesn’t magically fix that.

So you either:

• wait
• reframe
• or accept imperfection

4. Telephoto Helps More Than You Think

Using the 70–200mm was actually a great decision.

It allowed me to:

• isolate details
• avoid distractions
• compress perspective

—>> Infrared + telephoto = very powerful combination.

5. It’s Slower Than You Expect

This is not “walk and shoot fast” photography.

You:

• observe more
• wait more
• adjust more

—>> and honestly, that’s the best part.

If you’re curious about infrared photography in Bruges or just starting out, these simple infrared photography tips are a great place to begin.

This is just the beginning of my infrared photography journey. More experiments (and hopefully more leaves) coming soon.

The post My First Infrared Photography Walk in Bruges (And Why I Waited So Long) appeared first on Bsilvia.Com.

Well… let’s be fair. My husband printed the very first copy for me. Why? Because I happen to suffer from a chronic case of “nothing I make is ever good enough.” And no, scrolling through social media and Internet does not help. (Though it almost makes me feel better… until it doesn’t. You know how that spiral goes.)

But this time was different. When I held the book in my hands, I was actually happy with it. Truly happy.

How It All Started

It began during the winter in Bruges. From early winter to early spring, I walked the city streets almost every night. I wasn’t on a mission. I wasn’t thinking about galleries, exhibitions, or printing books. I was simply walking, looking, and sometimes stopping when the city revealed something unique – a shadow on the cobblestones, a reflection in the canals, a lonely lantern on a misty night.

I took photos just to capture what I saw and shared them with a few close people. That was it. Nothing more. Publishing was never the plan.

But then one thing led to another.

From “Just for Me” to Print

The first copy of Bruges at Night was printed through a POD (print-on-demand) service. Easy enough – but far too expensive. The price was 200–300% higher than it needed to be, which made no sense if I wanted to share it beyond a single copy.

So I went back to my roots: design. Thanks to my InDesign skills, I recreated the entire book myself. I searched for a better printer and found one who could produce beautiful copies at a fair price. And just like that – Bruges at Night became real.

The Book Today

The photo book is printed in black and white, echoing the quiet atmosphere of the city after dark. It’s not a tourist brochure. It’s not a guide. It’s a mood. A memory of what Bruges feels like when the crowds are gone, the lights glow soft, and silence fills the streets.

For now, the book is available in my Etsy shop here:
Bruges at Night – Black & White Photo Book

Not Every Photo Made It

While I wait for the next batch of books to come from the printer, I’ve also been sharing some of the photos that didn’t make it into the final edit. They are from the same period, the same walks, the same mood – but they live outside the covers.

Because that’s the thing with photography: not every image belongs in the book, but every walk, every moment, every click of the shutter led me there.

Why I Printed This Book

Printing this book wasn’t about proving something. It wasn’t even about sales (though, yes, it’s nice if someone wants to own it). It was more about turning something fragile – late-night walks, quiet moods, fleeting shadows – into something tangible.

A book you can hold. A little piece of Bruges you can take home.

Would I do it again? Absolutely. But for now, I’m just grateful to have captured a side of Bruges most people never see.

If you want to see it for yourself, the book is waiting in my Etsy shop.

Order Bruges at Night on Etsy

The post Bruges at Night – How My Photo Walks Became a Book appeared first on Bsilvia.Com.

I totally forgot I won something this April… A little prize from the city of Bruges, as part of Veggie Challenge wedstrijd Stad Brugge. The email began politely:

“Good afternoon,

You participated in the Veggie Challenge competition for the €50 gift voucher. We thank you for the beautiful entry.

We had to wait in suspense for a while longer, but…

You are one of the winners, congratulations!…”

What was my creation, you ask?
Fluweelzachte Bosstoofpot met Romige Aardappelwolken – or, in English, Velvety Forest Stew with Creamy Potato Clouds. Yes, the name is a bit whimsical. But why not give our food a little poetry?

I’ve always dreamed of opening a small food shack – somewhere cozy and casual – where dishes don’t just list ingredients but tell little stories. The recipe may include simple ingredients, nothing fancy – but the names? That should spark curiosity. Joy. Even a giggle.

Inside Bruges City Hall: A Recipe Celebration

I was invited to a charming press event on Thursday, April 24, at 3 p.m. in the gorgeous salons of City Hall at Burg 12. The building itself felt like a warm embrace from history – think ornate wood, tall windows, golden details.

The organizers didn’t just hand out prizes. They went further: They compiled a recipe booklet featuring the five winning dishes (mine included!).

If you’re curious, the full booklet is available for download – though it’s in Dutch, it’s packed with color and soul. (Download the booklet)

Photos: A little press event, a lot of history – welcome to the city hall of Bruges, where even the walls feel important

About That Patrick Devos Moment…

So, I had originally chosen to enjoy my gift voucher at the Patrick Devos restaurant, thinking, “Why not treat hubby and myself?” But when I peeked at the prices… let’s just say my lunch plans changed faster than you can say red beetroot espuma. And yep, I skipped lunch.

No hard feelings though! Honestly, I’m fine with that. Sometimes the best food adventures happen in our own kitchens – spices in our hands, cats judging us while weaving between our feet, hoping for snacks. You know the vibe.

What I Prepared Today: Paprika Waffles & Green Ajvar

Because food dreams don’t end with one contest win, I’ve kept playing in the kitchen. Most recently, I whipped up what I’ll boldly call a Waffle Revolution. And today’s star dish? It goes by the name: Waffle Waltz with Balkan Spice.

Here’s the idea: I use a savory waffle-style batter made with eggs, flour (usually oats, buckwheat, spelt, or chickpea), and a splash of soy or oat cream. Then I stir in spices – salt, pepper, paprika, onion, garlic – whatever I’m craving that day (or it is in the fridge at the moment). Sometimes I throw in chia seeds, sunflower seeds, chopped leek or red onion. It’s spontaneous cooking, guided by mood and taste buds.

Today’s creation was simple, cozy, and full of color

• The batter: eggs, oat flour, soy cream enhanced with pasta from grounded fresh red paprika (yes, inside the dough!) and sipices – salt, peper, onion.
• The topping: a generous dollop of green ajvar, my favorite Balkan roasted green pepper and eggplant relish.

Sure, it’s made in a waffle maker, but is it a waffle in the traditional sense? Debatable. Delicious? Absolutely.

Why I Keep Naming My Food Like a Poet with a Frying Pan

“Creamy Potato Clouds.”
“Forest Stew.”
“Waffle Waltz with Balkan Spice.”

I know some people might raise an eyebrow, but for me, naming dishes is like writing little love notes to the eater. It’s my way of blending art and taste. The ingredients are always clearly listed (no one’s getting mystery mushrooms here, LOL), but the name? That’s where the magic lives.

Wrapping Up with Gratitude (and Garlic)

Being part of the Veggie Challenge Bruges was more than just fun – it was a reminder that plant-based cooking has a whole community behind it. A tasty, creative, sometimes slightly over-the-top community, but one that I’m proud to be part of.

So, cheers from Belgium, where waffles might contain paprika, and stew might wear a poetic name.

Eet smakelijk. Bon appétit. And keep your potato clouds fluffy.

The post How I Won a Prize in the Bruges Veggie Challenge (And Why I’m Naming My Dishes Like Poetry) appeared first on Bsilvia.Com.

What was I doing all that time? Working on a deeply personal project called House. No grand photography expeditions, just a handful of snapshots, some cat videos (which, of course, found their rightful place on cats-magazine.com) – and a lot of paint, planning, and repairs.

But right before I went on that semi-break, I did squeeze in one last real estate shoot for a new client. And let me tell you, it was a tall one – literally. That’s when my trusty Manfrotto 269HDBU Super Stand came out to play.

If you’re shooting real estate photography in narrow city streets, this stand is a game-changer. You don’t need a drone (or the permission and paperwork that come with it). Just extend the stand, attach your camera, shoot from above – and boom. Fast, legal, and jaw-droppingly good results.

I even wrote about this clever piece of gear twice because I love it that much:
My Mast Photography Adventure with the Manfrotto 269HDBU Super Stand
How My Manfrotto 269HDBU Became My Sky-High Sidekick

And speaking of flying high – my drone license needed a renewal. Turns out, if you don’t ask for permission to fly for a year, you’re just a person with a very expensive paperweight. Lesson learned. Maybe I’ll go shoot something fun next, just to keep the paperwork in motion!

And while I’m at it – June comes with a little gift.

If you’re a new client booking a session this month, you get 10% off any photo shoot – real estate, hotel, food, small business branding, you name it. Because nothing says summer like fresh visuals and a sweet discount.

I’m thrilled to be back, with new energy and more stories to tell. If you need high-quality real estate photography, hotel imagery, or branding visuals for your business, I’m just a message away. Let’s create something stunning.

The post New Look, New Clients and My Favorite Real Estate Photography Equipment appeared first on Bsilvia.Com.

If you’ve been trying to visit my site recently and were greeted by the infamous “Maintenance Mode” sign – yes, that was me hiding in the digital shadows, wrestling with layout gremlins and code goblins.

But guess what? I’m back! And so is bsilvia.com, with a brand-new website design. It’s cleaner, brighter, easier to navigate, and (hopefully) 87% less glitchy. 😅

Sure, there might still be a few hiccups here and there (that sneaky sidebar behaving like it owns the place or a missing image or two), but I’m keeping the site live while I polish things up. If you spot anything weird or broken, feel free to let me know – I’d totally appreciate the heads-up.

April Special – 10% Off Photo Sessions!

To celebrate the new design (and to thank you for your patience), I’m offering a 10% discount on all April bookings.

Whether you’re looking to:

• Capture your vacation memories here in Bruges
• Add that professional sparkle to your hotel or rental listing
• Or finally schedule that dreamy portrait shoot

April is the time to book!

Just drop me a message, and I’ll get you on the calendar.

Deadline? April 30. After that, I’ll be off adventuring!

Travel Update: I’ll Be Away in May & June

Heads-up! I’ll be traveling in May and June, so I won’t be accepting any new shoots during that time.

But don’t worry – I’ll be back, lens in hand, and ready to create photo magic from July onward. If you’re planning a summer trip, a business update, or just want to get on my early list, feel free to reach out now and reserve your spot.

Thank You for Your Support

Rebuilding this site (and my services!) has been quite the ride. I’m so thankful for everyone who sticks around, books shoots, sends feedback, or just drops by to say hi. Whether you’re a fellow creative, a curious traveler, or a business owner needing pro visuals – you’re the reason I keep doing what I do.

Let’s keep creating beautiful stories. One photo at a time.

💛 Silvia

The post A Fresh New Look for BSilvia.com (With a Few Hiccups) + April Discount! appeared first on Bsilvia.Com.

Being a photographer in Bruges isn’t all about picture-perfect shots and exploring beautiful locations. Sometimes, it’s about dealing with the less glamorous stuff, like… spam. Today, I hit my limit after reading a mountain of spam messages. I mean, who has time for that? So, I did what any self-respecting, mildly irritated photographer would do – I took down the contact form on my website. Yep, it’s gone!

Now, if you want to reach me, you’ll have to do it through Facebook Messenger (or Instagram or LinkedIn, if that’s more your vibe). It was just too much. I don’t mind messages from real humans, but if you’re a spam bot, well… bye!

No, I Don’t Do Document Photography (And No, I Don’t Need to Say It!)

Now, here’s a little rant: Last week, someone suggested that I should mention on my website that I’m not an official document portrait photographer. Apparently, it wasn’t clear enough from my portfolio or my services that I don’t take passport photos, ID photos, or official document shots. I mean, my website shows my actual work, from event to lifestyle shots to real estate photos and food photos. I figured it was pretty obvious that I’m not sitting in a small room with a gray/white backdrop saying, “Look here, chin up, no smiling!”

So, no, I’m not going to list all the types of photography I don’t do. That would be a long list! Let’s stick with the fun stuff, right?

A Relaxing Trip to the Record Fair (Kind of)

Alright, enough grumbling. Let’s move on to something more fun! Last week, I took a little trip to ‘s Hertogenbosch for their bi-annual record fair. Now, here’s the funny thing – I’m not even that into records or record players. But there’s something magical about wandering around, flipping through records, and getting swept up in the excitement of it all. It’s like you’re suddenly a vinyl enthusiast, hunting down your favorite tunes like it’s a lifelong passion.

And even if you’re not buying anything, the vibe is just so cool. There are vinyl fans everywhere, talking about their collections, sharing their finds, and hunting for that rare album. I have to admit, I did get a little caught up in the excitement and started thinking, “Hey, maybe I do need a record player after all…”

What I Offer (And a Few Things I Don’t!)

If you’re wondering what kind of photography I offer, let me clear that up! I focus on lifestyle and event photography, real estate shots, and capturing the unique charm of Bruges as a “hobby”. If you’re a business owner looking to show off your property, or a family wanting to remember your trip to Bruges, I’m your photographer! I’ll bring out the beauty, the fun, and the story in each shot.

What I don’t offer? Document photos, passport photos, or anything that feels too stiff and formal. My goal is to capture life and emotion, not just faces. So, if you’re looking for photos that feel alive and have a sense of adventure, you’ve come to the right place.

Embracing New Adventures

Life as a photographer in Bruges is full of surprises, from unexpected spam battles to new Amazon projects. Every day brings a new challenge, a new view, or a new way to create. Photography isn’t just my job; it’s my way of seeing the world, of sharing beauty, and of connecting with others.

If you’re ever in Bruges and looking for a photographer who knows the city and loves it deeply, reach out (via Facebook or Instagram, of course!). I’d love to capture a piece of your story here in this magical city. And who knows? Maybe our paths will cross at the next record fair, or maybe you’ll spot me wandering the canals, camera in hand, on the lookout for the next perfect shot.

Until then, thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more adventures – both in Bruges and beyond!

The post Photographer in Bruges – Fighting Spam, Meeting Clients, Exploring Record Fairs appeared first on Bsilvia.Com.

Sometimes, to capture the perfect shot, I need complete solitude. No chatter, no distractions – just me, my camera, and the scene in front of me. Silence helps me tune into my creative zone, where I can think about angles, lighting, and the story I want each image to tell. Being alone with my thoughts lets me see details that I might miss if I were busy talking or distracted. In those quiet moments, I’m fully connected to my work, free to explore ideas and bring each photo to life exactly as I envision it.

In the world of photography services, that quiet time is a must. It helps me tune in to the details, letting the creative juices flow. When I’m in my zone, there’s nothing distracting me from the subject, the lighting, or the little magic moments that unfold. I believe that’s where the best shots come from!

Snapshots and Sharing: Why Mobile Photography Feels Different

Now, if we’re talking about taking quick snapshots with my phone, that’s another story. Mobile photography has its charm – it’s quick, it’s social, and it’s like a little visual diary. When I’m out exploring, like with my husband, I can’t resist snapping photos and sharing what I see right then and there. It’s like bringing him along into my viewfinder!

Imagine this: a lovely window with flower pots spilling over, wooden doors that look like they belong in a fairy tale, fluffy white clouds floating over red rooftops, or a cozy narrow street with adorable houses peeking out from the corner. It’s all there, waiting to be captured, even if it’s just with my phone.

Stepping into History in Dunkirk

Last week, I was in Dunkirk for a food photoshoot, but I took a little time to wander around and explore the city. For anyone who hasn’t visited, Dunkirk is a place that seems to hold stories in every stone. Known for the famous World War II evacuation, Dunkirk has a rich past that echoes through its beaches, museums, and monuments. From tales of courage and resilience to the charm of its coastal views, Dunkirk offers a unique vibe that’s both reflective and inspiring.

With my smartphone in hand, I felt like I was walking through history. Every corner I turned, every building I saw, reminded me of the stories that had played out there. Of course, I had to take a few snapshots – not just to capture the scene, but to remember the feeling of standing in a place where history was made.

Heading to Dunkirk on a misty October morning, I couldn’t resist capturing the atmosphere as I drove. You’re welcome to check out my channel for more of my driving videos if you’d like to experience the journey with me!

The Balance of Solitude and Sharing in Photography

For me, photography is a mix of solitude and sharing. When I’m working on my photography services, it’s about focus and finding that perfect shot without distractions. But when I’m just out enjoying life, snapping quick photos with my phone, it’s about sharing the beauty I see with others.

So, whether it’s a solo journey through Dunkirk with my camera or a casual stroll with my phone, photography always feels like my way of connecting to the world. It’s a way to say, “Hey, look at this beautiful thing I found!” and to bring a bit of joy and curiosity into someone else’s day.

Why Photography Services Are More Than Just Point and Shoot

Offering photography services isn’t just about having a fancy camera or knowing a few tricks. It’s about understanding what makes each moment unique. For me, it’s about finding the story in each frame. It’s about being there, fully present, so that each click of the shutter captures something real and memorable.

When people hire me for my photography services, they’re not just getting photos. They’re getting a piece of my focus, my creativity, and my commitment to telling a story. They’re getting a moment frozen in time, a slice of life that feels as real as the day it was taken. And that’s what I love most about my work.

So, if you’re ever in need of someone who can capture the little things and the big moments, just remember: my camera and I are here, ready to bring your story to life.

Master Monochrome Magic on Mobile Phones

Feel free to check out my NotebookLM podcast about my e-book, Capturing Moments in Monochrome. It’s packed with tips and tricks for mobile black-and-white photography, and you can find it on Amazon. While you’re here, don’t forget to browse through my CatPrints by Bsilvia Shop or take a peek at what’s new on Graphics Illustrations.

Grab Your Copy on Amazon Kindle

Beyond mere filters and presets, delve into the art and science of capturing life’s moments in stunning grayscale. Experience a fresh perspective, as every click brings forth a canvas echoing yesteryears’ charm and today’s innovation.

Grab Your Copy

The post Finding Focus: Why Photography Services Mean More Than Just Point and Shoot appeared first on Bsilvia.Com.

When Monday Turns into Tuesday… Or So I Thought

So, here’s how the story starts. I had just wrapped up shooting the Antwerp Marathon, and I was taking a well-deserved break on Monday. My next job was supposed to be a simple food photoshoot in Oostkamp on Tuesday. I was mentally gearing up for it while also giving myself a chance to unwind and recharge.

Then, right in the middle of my chill Monday, my phone buzzes. It’s my client, and they’re not just calling to say “hi.” Nope, they’re calling to tell me they’re waiting for me… on Monday! Panic mode: activated. I double-checked my calendar, and yep, the shoot was indeed scheduled for Tuesday. But the client was sure Monday was the “better day” and insisted I come right away.

A Quick Trip to Oostkamp

Thankfully, Oostkamp isn’t far from where I live, so I grabbed my gear and hit the road. It’s a quick 15-minute drive, and if you’re curious about how it looked, you can catch almost the entire drive on my YouTube channel under the “Driving” playlist (yes, I’m that person who records my drives for fun). Even without a dashcam, I make do with my smartphone, and I really enjoy these drives and filming them – there’s something relaxing about the open road, even when I’m rushing!

Battery Drama: The Gamble of the Day

Since I wasn’t planning on working until Tuesday, I hadn’t bothered to charge my camera batteries. So, there I was, walking into a professional photoshoot with a battery that had only 30% charge. To make matters even more suspenseful, I had another battery, but it was only charged to a measly 3%. I was gambling, but I figured, “How bad could it be? It’s a simple shoot.”

But life has a way of keeping things interesting. The client wanted 30% more photos than originally planned! My heart skipped a beat as I realized I’d need to get creative to stretch out that battery life. I quickly switched to the “Prioritize Viewfinder” mode, which isn’t ideal for food photography but was the best option to save power.

Surviving on a Sliver of Battery

As I clicked away, carefully composing each shot, my battery seemed to hang on with sheer determination. I managed to capture all but one of the planned shots before the battery finally gave out. But remember that 3% battery I’d thrown in the charger at the last second? That tiny bit of power saved me in the end, allowing me to snap the final shot before everything powered down. Phew! Crisis averted… sort of.

The Reality of Shooting in Tight Spaces

Now, let’s talk about the actual shoot. You know how some spaces just don’t vibe with the creative flow? This was one of those places. The room was cramped, with barely enough space to move, let alone set up proper lighting. To make things trickier, people were bustling around, chatting, and making noise. There were workers hammering away in the backyard, and the smells from the nearby kitchen weren’t exactly nice (at least for vegetarian me).

On top of all that, the natural light was completely out of reach. Sure, I could move tables and chairs around, but even then, the light wasn’t ideal, and the angles were awkward. But when you’re offering fast and reliable photography services in Belgium, you have to make it work, even if the conditions are less than perfect.

Pushing Through and Making It Work

With limited battery, a crowded setup, and less-than-perfect lighting, I had to rely on every trick in the book to make the photos look professional. Food photography is all about capturing textures, colors, and details that make people say, “Yum!” Despite the challenges, I did my best to bring that level of quality to each shot.

I reminded myself that, in the end, photography is about adapting to whatever situation you’re in. Not every shoot will be in a fancy, perfectly lit studio, and not every client will remember their own schedule! But finding ways to push through and make each photo count is what makes photography exciting.

Photography Services in Belgium: More Than Just a Job

Providing photography services in Belgium (or anywhere else) means navigating all kinds of situations. From beautiful cityscapes to cozy indoor shoots, each job brings something different. There are days when everything goes smoothly, and then there are days like this one, where every little thing is an adventure in its own right. But that’s the thrill of being a photographer – finding creative solutions and making every shot look its best, no matter the odds.

Tips for Handling Last-Minute Photo Challenges

If you’re a photographer, you’ll know that shoots don’t always go as planned. Here are a few things I’ve learned from experiences like this one:

• Keep Backup Batteries Charged: Even if you think you won’t need them, always have fully charged batteries on hand. Or bring the charger with you. I learned this the hard way!
• Use Battery-Saving Modes: If you’re low on power, switch to modes like “Prioritize Viewfinder” to save battery. It’s not ideal, but it can help you get those last few shots.
• Stay Flexible: In tight spaces or tricky lighting situations, be prepared to get creative with angles and compositions.
• Keep Calm: Panicking won’t help! Take a deep breath, adapt, and make the most of the situation.

Photography Services in Belgium

So, would I call this photoshoot my finest work? Probably not! But it was a day filled with lessons, laughs, and a bit of stress – all part of the package when working as a photographer. Every shoot is a chance to grow, adapt, and find joy in the process.

Whether you’re capturing a cozy café, a bustling market, or a client’s special request, photography is about capturing the beauty of each moment, even when that moment involves low batteries, last-minute changes, and a little bit of chaos.

Thanks for joining me on this wild ride through Oostkamp!

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Since July, I’ve been dealing with a mess involving Payoneer. Now, for those unfamiliar with Payoneer, it’s a service that lets you receive payments internationally, often used by freelancers like me. But, let me tell you, my experience has been anything but smooth. It started when Payoneer asked me to provide more info about my account. Fair enough, right? So, I sent them the documents they needed, and guess what happened a few days later? They paused my account! Yes, just like that, no warning, no explanation.

After a few weeks of radio silence from their side, I asked them why they paused it. Then came another request, this time for even more documents. Sure, I thought, maybe this will finally resolve things. I sent the new documents and waited. And waited. And, well, waited some more. A few months of nothing. Finally, a short message arrived – my account was closed.

Ocus and the Payoneer Situation

Honestly, I wouldn’t have cared much if my Payoneer account was gone. In fact, it would have been a relief. But there’s one small problem: a photo agency I worked for, named Ocus, insists that photographers MUST have a Payoneer account. Here’s where things get a bit fishy. Ocus is based in France. I live in Belgium, so we’re both in the European Union (EU). Payoneer, on the other hand, is based in Delaware, USA.

You’ve heard of Delaware, right? It’s famous – or should I say, infamous – for being a tax haven. Rich people love it because Delaware doesn’t have a state sales tax. So, a lot of companies register there, taking advantage of its friendly tax laws. But it doesn’t just benefit businesses; the wealthy have been using Delaware’s legal system to hide profits and avoid paying taxes. It’s like a playground for the rich while the rest of us, the hard-working freelancers, get stuck dealing with the consequences.

Why Does an EU Photo Agency Want Me to Use a U.S. Payment Service?

This is the million-dollar question. Why would a photo agency in France, a country in the EU, insist on using a U.S.-based payment service like Payoneer? It doesn’t make sense. We have plenty of reliable banking systems in Europe. So, why Payoneer? Is this legal? Probably not, at least not by the standards of common sense. But when you’re rich or a big company, there’s always a loophole, right?

Let’s be real here: the rich play by a different set of rules. For companies and wealthy individuals, Delaware is a financial loophole heaven. For freelancers like me, it’s just another obstacle. So, there I was, forced into this situation.

The Freelancer Struggle: Why I Stuck with Ocus

Here’s the part where I tell you how I got stuck in this messy situation. I grew up with the idea that if someone offers you a job, you take it. No questions asked. Turning down work felt shameful. I know, it sounds a bit crazy, but that’s how my brain is wired. So, when Ocus, a photo agency, reached out to me years ago for photoshoots, I accepted the offer, despite it being low-paid. The idea of saying no wasn’t an option for me, even though I should have.

The job was frustrating. It didn’t pay well, and I felt undervalued. I tried quitting several times, and being a freelancer, I could technically just refuse any offers they sent me. However, my workaholic side kicked in, and I accepted most of them, even when I didn’t want to. It became a cycle. I wasn’t happy doing the work, but saying no felt even worse. So, I stuck with it for four long years.

Payoneer and Ocus: The Final Straw

In a weird way, Payoneer shutting down my account was a relief. It ended my relationship with Ocus, a job I could never bring myself to quit. It’s almost like Payoneer and Ocus finished it for me, putting an end to this almost Stockholm syndrome-like situation. But at the same time, I feel angry and upset about how unfair the whole thing was.

Think about it: here I am, a freelancer just trying to make a living, and I get punished with no explanation. Meanwhile, the “fat cats” of the world, flying around in private jets, get away with whatever they want, no questions asked. It’s a reminder that no matter where you are, which country you’re in, the game is rigged for the rich and powerful. And we, the freelancers, the hustlers trying to make ends meet, are left to deal with the fallout.

The Bigger Picture: Freelancers vs. The System

This whole experience has made me reflect on the bigger picture. Freelancers are often at the mercy of the systems set up by bigger companies and corporations. Whether it’s photo agencies or payment platforms, we’re just tiny pieces in their giant puzzle. But what happens when things go wrong? Well, as I’ve learned, it’s often the freelancers who pay the price.

We’re expected to navigate these complex systems, deal with issues like payment problems, and keep working without any of the security or support that comes with a traditional job. It’s exhausting, and it makes you wonder: why do we put up with it? Is it because we love what we do? Or is it because, like me, we’ve been conditioned to accept whatever scraps are thrown our way?

Moving Forward: A New Chapter Begins

So, that’s it. Another chapter closed. My Payoneer account is gone, and my relationship with Ocus is over. In a way, I feel free. Free from the low-paid gigs, free from the frustrating back-and-forth with Payoneer, free from a situation I never should have been in, to begin with.

What’s next? Who knows? I’ve learned my lesson. And as I move forward, I’ll be focusing on finding work that values me as a photographer and as a person.

Conclusion: A Lesson for Fellow Freelancers

To all the fellow freelancers out there: don’t be like me. Don’t accept jobs that don’t value your work. Don’t let payment platforms push you around. And most importantly, don’t let the fear of saying no hold you back. Your time, your skills, and your well-being are worth more than that.

The world of freelancing can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be unfair. We just need to stand up for ourselves and recognize when it’s time to walk away from situations that don’t serve us.

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