Jaap Kwaak

Freelance Photographer/Videographer based in Amsterdam. Experienced in the advertising world and active in various roles such as Photography, Videography, Light Assistant, Photo Assistant and Post Production for clients such as McDonald's, Rembrandt House, Tax Authorities and CBR.
During my studies in Fine Arts and Design at the Amsterdam University of the Arts, I came into contact with photography. After taking an elective in analogue photography, I was immediately sold. I left drawing and painting behind and focused entirely on photography and film. During my studies, I worked with institutions such as the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, where I made short videos for the 'Blikopeners' events.
After graduating, I realized that my art education had given me a strong creative foundation, but that I still had a lot to learn about the technical side of the profession. That’s why I started working for Jaap Vliegenthart, a veteran in the advertising world. He took me under his wing and taught me all the tricks of the trade. This experience was incredibly valuable, not only on a technical level, but also in understanding people. How do you work with clients, advertising agencies, and art directors? What is expected of you? How do you plan shoots, set realistic deadlines, and ultimately deliver top quality?
In addition, in those six years I have developed a keen eye for what works and what doesn't, and a corresponding opinion. I see where improvements are possible and have the skills to implement them.