Brabantse Biesbosch kreken

Where water and willows meet

The Brabantse Biesbosch near Werkendam is one of the few places in the Netherlands where you genuinely feel that nature is doing as it pleases. A vast network of creeks, reed-lined banks and willow floodforests. Here, water sets the agenda, not people. And as a photographer, you notice that straight away.

What makes the place so special is the willow floodforest. Trees standing partly in the water, gnarled roots, moss on the branches. In autumn the foliage turns yellow and orange, and when the morning mist hangs low over the creeks, you can make images that simply do not exist anywhere else.

Light and season

Autumn is by far the strongest season here. October and November bring the finest colours, and the low sun produces a warm, raking light in the mornings that works beautifully in the dense woodland. Come early. Being on the water an hour before sunrise means you catch the mist before it burns off.

A kayak or canoe is the best way to venture deep into the creeks. From a boat you reach compositions you would never find on foot, and you disturb the wildlife far less. Canoes are available to hire in Werkendam.

Composition and focal length

A wide angle, 16 to 24mm, captures the scale of the willow floodforest and the reflections in the water. A telephoto, 200mm or longer, works well for details along the reed banks or birds at a distance. The Biesbosch is an important wintering area for water birds, so a long lens is well worth bringing.

Reflections are a strong compositional element here. In calm conditions the surface of the narrow creeks mirrors perfectly. Look for a low camera angle, just above the water. It sometimes takes a bit of discomfort, but the result is worth it.

Practical

You can park at the visitor facilities of Nationaal Park De Biesbosch in Werkendam. Walking and boating routes are well signposted from there. The park is freely accessible, though you will need a small boat to reach the narrow creeks. Keep an eye on the tide: in the Biesbosch it still plays a role, even deep inside the area. A low water level exposes muddy banks that are actually interesting for texture details.

Sources and further reading

• Nationaal Park De Biesbosch
• Staatsbosbeheer – Biesbosch
• Gemeente Altena – Bezoek de Biesbosch