Hembrugterrein

A site that doesn't pretend

The Hembrugterrein in Zaandam is a former military factory site where ammunition and weapons were produced for many years. That past is visible everywhere: in the weathered facades, the vegetation slowly finding its way between the cobblestones, the silence you don't expect this close to Amsterdam. This is not polished industrial chic. Here you can tell that time has simply done its work.

For industrial photography and street photography, that is exactly what you're looking for. Textures, contrasts, layers. Rust beside old brickwork, a broken window beside a freshly painted mural. The site is open to the public, which also draws artists, markets and events. That can make the atmosphere unexpectedly lively, but on a weekday morning it's quiet enough to have the place to yourself.

Light and composition

The site has a mix of open spaces and narrower passages between buildings. On overcast days the light is soft and even, which works well for capturing details in facades or interiors if you have access. With low morning sun you get long shadows across the cobbled streets, which immediately adds depth to your images. Late afternoon in autumn or winter is my preference: the golden light and bare trees give the site something melancholic without becoming sentimental.

For focal length, a 35mm or 50mm works well for the broader context of buildings in relation to their surroundings. For individual details and textures you'll want to reach for 85mm or longer. Don't forget to look up either: eaves, chimneys and factory details tell their own story.

Practical

The easiest place to park is via the Hembrugstraat. The site is free to enter, but some buildings are only open during events or guided tours. Check in advance whether anything is planned, as it will be busier then, though also more interesting if you want people in your shots. For interior photography of closed buildings you need permission from the site manager. Don't just walk in: it's not only unsafe and illegal, it's also simply disrespectful to the people who manage and develop this site.

Sources and further reading

• Hembrugterrein officiële website
• Rijksdienst voor het Cultureel Erfgoed – Hembrugterrein
• Wikipedia – Hembrugterrein