Annelein de Haas: Audience Winner of the Visit Haarlemmermeer Photo Contest 2025

Annelein de Haas was chosen by the public as the winner of this year's Visit Haarlemmermeer Photo Contest 2025. The theme of the contest was "Heritage & Architecture, built to last." She captured the public's hearts with a beautiful photo of the Stompe Toren (Stomp Tower) in the setting sun.

Source: visithaarlemmermeer.nl

Always in Haarlemmermeer

Annelein was born and raised in Haarlemmermeer. She's felt completely at home in this municipality for 24 years. Besides her work as a product photographer and webshop employee, photography also plays a major role in her free time. Her love for photography began during her higher professional education (HBO) studies in Animal Health and Management. "For my minor, I wanted to try something new. That became photography in The Hague. I was hooked from the very first moment." After her minor, she bought a Sony A7III and has been photographing almost every day ever since. "I'm primarily a hobby photographer, but I've also done a few smaller assignments, such as parties, family events, and motorcycle photography."

Source: Annelein de Haas

The winning photo

While photographing, she discovered many new areas in Haarlemmermeer. The idea for the winning photo came during a summer evening with her father. They were searching for beautiful spots in Haarlemmerliede and Spaarnwoude. The Stompe Toren (Stomp Tower) immediately caught Annelein's eye.

My eye was drawn to the Dutch flag against the colorful sky. It became the focal point of my photo. I used a low angle to showcase the flag and the sky. I find the area around Spaarndam beautiful. The nature and tranquility there really appeal to me. I wouldn't mind living there someday.

Annelein de Haas

Favorite places and style

Annelein loves photographing small, hidden spots in nature. She appreciates details and subtle moments. Her favorite spots are Groene Weelde, Buitenschot, and the woods near PARK21, near Driemerenweg. She prefers to be out around sunset, when the sky is at its most beautiful. She works primarily digitally, and her style is soft and dreamy. She pays attention to light and atmosphere to convey emotion in her photos.

Public and future

Winning the Audience Award means a lot to Annelein. "People told me they really liked my photo. That was wonderful to hear." In the future, she wants to explore more of Haarlemmermeer, like the short track harness racing, and photograph new places. Her tip for other participants is simple: "Definitely participate! It's fun to see your surroundings with a different eye. Enjoy taking your photo; you'll always see that reflected in the result." With her sense of atmosphere and eye for detail, Annelein shows that Haarlemmermeer has many beautiful places. Her photo at the Stompe Toren (Stomp Tower) beautifully illustrates this.