Dirk de Herder
photographer · author
Dirk de Herder (1914–2003) was a Dutch photographer and artist known for his poetic approach to capturing everyday life. Born in Rotterdam, he began his career in the photography industry as a laborer at a photo card factory before training under various professional photographers. He is noted for his 'creative documentary' style, which emphasizes atmosphere, light, and human presence over strict journalistic reporting. His work often features cityscapes (notably Amsterdam), still lifes, and portraits of musicians and artists. De Herder was also involved in filmmaking, creating several short artistic films, and later explored mixed media including wood objects ('jut-art') and paintings. He is frequently described as a 'poet' among photographers for his ability to evoke emotion from simple subjects.[1,2]
- everyday life
- cityscapes
- still lifes
- portraits of artists
- transience
- Amsterdam street scenes
Books
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HERDER Her en Der€121.00
Works by Dirk de Herder
- 1949 Amsterdam Photobook about life in the capital.
- 1952 Gamla Stan Reportage on the old town of Stockholm.
- 1975 Van Gogh achterna Co-authored with Marinus Schroevers.
- 1984 Herder her en der A retrospective of his photographic highlights.
- 1947 Mirthe en de Demonen Short film made with Bert Haanstra.
Exhibitions
- 1984 Dick de Herder 40 jaar fotografie her en der
- 1984 De Buurt
- 1987 Langs de vloedlijn van Europa
Awards
- 1946 Gedeelde eerste prijs (Achtste Amsterdamse Kerstsalon van Fotografische Kunst)