Prinses Beatrix kort na terugkeer in Nederland 1945 - 1946

This is a photograph of Princess Beatrix, taken by Anefo shortly after her return to the Netherlands; it is a small gelatin silver print. The image is composed of subtle gradations of grey, capturing a moment in time. You can almost feel the sunlight on her face. Looking closely at the surface, you can see the slight imperfections and texture of the photographic paper. The details are sharp in the foreground, where the princess stands, and softer in the background where a crowd is gathered. This helps to focus the viewer's attention. The way the light catches her hair and the gentle curve of her cheek creates a sense of intimacy. The way the composition brings together the portrait and a landscape makes me think of Rineke Dijkstra, she has a similar touch in her own approach to portraiture. It's a simple photograph but it captures something essential about this young person.