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“I have loved photography since I was 4 years old and took my first photo of my grandpa sitting in his big old armchair. I used to make my brothers and friends pose for me all the time when we were kids. At 15 years old I started charging for my services, and I’ve never looked back. But it wasn’t until I started teaching that I began seeing the true art of photography. I’d give up my own camera in an instant if I had to choose between shooting and teaching. Experiencing photography through the eyes of my students is one of the most gratifying experiences of my life.”
by Kathy Harms Photography
Tineke has been working as a photographer since she was 15 years old, and has become well known for her romantic wedding photography, unique grad images, and candid family collections. She has received a number of awards in image competitions, as well as had her images featured in several publications, including Gold Rush Living Magazine, the Small Town Love projects and numerous others. She has spent the past several years travelling the world in her downtime to photograph different countries and cultures.
"For me, the real treasure in photography is not the set-up, posed portrait. It’s in the spontaneous, authentic moments of life. I love street photography because it captures real people in their environments, connecting humanity through shared experiences."
Exploring castle ruins and shipwrecks also ignites Tineke's adventurous side, and she loves giving people the ability to travel vicariously through her photographs. But most of all, she cherishes the opportunities to teach others how to take those images themselves.
"Teaching is pretty special to me. I enjoy seeing people discover their abilities and express their life experiences, their emotions and their stories through art. I connect with my students in a way that creates a unique bond as we share the journey of creativity and expression. They have become some of my closest friends, my most valued colleagues, and my most bountiful source of inspiration. I wouldn’t give up teaching for the world. It’s like I have found my true place in life."
Tineke is also working on her Bachelors of Social Work in her extra time (what's that?!) After completing her Diploma of Professional Counselling in 2008, she has enjoyed being able to offer art therapy courses as well, that help people to heal, grow, and express themselves through photography, writing, and other creative artforms.
Welcome to the adventure!