Field Report: Photographing My First March

Earlier this month, I took my camera and joined the “Rode Lijn” Red Line march in Amsterdam to document the event.

I started where the march started, in the museum quarter in Amsterdam, and ended with a renewed hope in humanity.

I saw people from different backgrounds and age groups, everyone was there for the same cause: to say NO to injustice.

Since this is a rally, it was hard to move around. I’ve seen multiple photographers position themselves in one spot, usually in a higher position to get a wider perspective of the crowds.

However, since I myself was participating in the march, I got a closer, more personal perspective in my photos.

People were nice and eager to get their message across and often, they were posing for the camera.

Everyone was expressing themselves in their own way. Creative signs definitely had a strong presence in the demonstration.

But also through art and music.

Some were demonstrating from their homes!

Despite the rain, the participation was huge. 250,000 people joined the march, walking around Amsterdam for 5 hours!

I have made the conscious decision to shoot with a black mist filter throughout, hence the light glow in most photos (I’m not sure how I feel about that).

Although I was mostly reacting to what I saw and felt a bit unprepared at times, I still like the close shots I got as part of the march.

Overall, it was a nice first experience. I’m sure there’s a lot more to learn in the future.

You can see the full the photo album here .