Marit van Ekelenburg transforms fear into wonder. Through her stunning macro photography, she showcases the beauty and diversity of insects and other small creatures. With each click, she reveals that even the smallest arthropods can have a captivating charm.
Marit started her photography journey taking casual snapshots on her smartphone. By 2018, she specialized in extreme macro photography, moving from a simple camera to high-quality gear. Her favorite is the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, paired with a fantastic M.Zuiko 90mm lens made for insect photographers.
Her technique includes using a diffuser to create soft, dreamy backgrounds and focus stacking to capture intricate details. By taking multiple shots at varying distances, she blends them to enhance depth and clarity. Editing tools like Affinity Photo help her finalize those vibrant touches.
Each image she captures feels alive, showcasing the rich personality of these tiny creatures. Marit’s work is a reminder of the complex and miraculous world around us. Insects play critical roles in our ecosystems. Fossil evidence shows that insects have been around for over 400 million years, evolving alongside plants and helping shape our planet.
Today, insects are vital for many reasons. They pollinate plants, decompose waste, and maintain ecological balance. Research shows that insects, beyond honeybees, are responsible for about 39% of crop pollination. This highlights their importance in supporting food chains and maintaining healthy ecosystems.
Insects possess fascinating abilities. For example, pseudoscorpions hitch rides on other insects, using them to travel to new locations. This adaptability speaks to how these creatures have thrived for millions of years.
Patience is key in macro photography. Marit emphasizes respecting the insects and their habitats, ensuring her work does not disturb them. The ethics of capturing these tiny lives is an essential aspect of her approach.
Her photography has been featured in notable exhibitions and media outlets, from historical sites in the Netherlands to photography magazines. Marit has amassed over 750,000 followers on Instagram, where she shares her passion and insights. She also conducts workshops and provides guidance on editing techniques.
Marit van Ekelenburg’s journey is a beautiful blend of art, science, and advocacy. Through her lens, she invites us to look closer and appreciate the intricate details of our world.
You can explore more about her work on her website and follow her on Instagram.
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