Every day, the forest looks different

26 March 2019 Forests in photos

This March, we hear from Mariska Kwee, a runner up in our 2018 ‘Experience Forests, Experience PEFC’ photo contest. Mariska tells us about her photo 'Caught in a minute in a dream I had' and why she likes to explore the same forest multiple times.

Caught in a minute in a dream I had

How do you feel about forests, both professionally and personally?

I love to wander alone in the forest. Especially in the morning, the peace and quietness clear my mind. When I'm walking in the forest, there are so many things to see. With my camera and different lenses, I take a closer look, so I can discover even more wonders of nature.

How did the forest inspire you to take your winning photo?

Every day, the forest looks different. That's a reason for me to explore the same forest multiple times. This summer, I often went to that beautiful lane to take some pictures. Once I took my daughter with me. As she was walking down the lane, the gigantic trees on both sides made her look so small. I realized that we sometimes only see the beauty of nature when we take a step back, relax, breathe and enjoy the moment with all our senses. So I did... with a camera in my hands.

What do you think about the work that an organization such as PEFC does to care for forests?

I think PEFC is a great organization! As a mother and a teacher, I teach the children how to be environmentally conscious. I teach them that they can play a part in creating a better world by separating waste and buying sustainable toys. PEFC fits perfectly into this picture and my own lifestyle. When I won the first price in the Dutch national photo contest, the award ceremony was held at 'De Barkel' estate, in the first PEFC-certified forest in the Netherlands. It was amazing to see with my own eyes what PEFC is all about.