Frankie has been photographing at the festival since 2019. During that time, his film camera has been our constant companion, capturing everything from dusty rave floors to serene nature, and all quirky details in between.
What started as a collaboration grew into a friendship. After all these years, we invited Frankie to take a closer look at the creative journey he has shared with Draaimolen. Frankie has hand-picked some images that tell the story of our time together, sharing the moments, challenges, and memories behind each one.
Do you remember the first photo you ever took, and when you realized photography was something you wanted to explore?
I can’t remember the exact first photo, probably just the palm of my left hand, but what I do remember is starting with VHS cameras, my mum always had one with her on special occasions. The real turning point came when I won my first proper camera, a Canon D-something, in a unique bid auction. My friend and I were buying tech to resell, but I ended up keeping the camera, and that’s when the exploration really began.
What do you hope people feel when they see your photos?
Whatever they feel, good or bad, I like them to feel something and honestly, I do it for what it brings to me first, and if it reaches others too, that’s a bonus, for sure. I enjoy the process more than anything else. For me, it’s mostly about where photography takes me. The experiences are what I truly seek. That’s why I’ll keep doing it till the end.
What’s your favorite kind of light, time of day, or atmosphere to shoot in?
I don’t put too much thought into it, I just adapt to whatever light is present in the moment. But if I had to pick, I definitely feel more comfortable in darker scenarios than full bright ones.
Do you remember the first photo you ever took for Draaimolen? What do you recall about that moment?
Of course, and this is the one, roll 21915, image 0001. From that moment, I already knew I was in the right place, with the right people.
Looking through your Draaimolen archive, how has your way of capturing the festival evolved over the years? Can you see a shift in your style or perspective?
I definitely focus more on the human aspect and the details now, getting closer and closer to my subjects. That shift has grown alongside my confidence in the craft.
Is there one image that, to you, feels like Draaimolen?
I’d have to choose two, one from the Pit and one from the Chapel. They’re such different worlds, yet both perfectly describe the essence of Draaimolen: so powerful and so refined at the very same time.
Has there ever been a shot that didn’t go as planned, but still became a favorite?
There are many shots that didn’t go as planned but still make it into the final selection. That uncertainty is exactly one of the main reasons that drive me to shoot only film. It’s less about the look and more about the mindset. It allows me to stay fully present, enjoy myself, and let the camera be just a tool without getting completely sucked in by it.
And a moment that was tough to capture? Either emotionally, technically, or just pure chaos?
All of these: Skrillex b2b Blawan. I literally couldn’t leave the floor, it was the first time I got stuck at one stage that long while on assignment. Everything just clicked beautifully: friends in the crowd, incredible sound, and the Children of the Light took it to another level. Truly one for the books.
What does it mean to you to be part of Draaimolen?
I can just say that I’d keep going forever if you want me to. It goes much deeper than photography itself. The archive we’re building together is priceless to me, but the human bond, even more so. Love you guys!
