I've passed the white house a thousand times. Never have I ignored it. It seems to call on me. Its long chalk-white walls are interrupted only by green-stained windows. The walls look thick and protective. Its anonymous appearance lends it an even stronger identity. In winter, the white house blends in with its natural surroundings. It becomes an invisible fortress and my attraction to it grows even stronger. The leafless trees seem to be the only ones knowing what goes on inside.
Featured on Minimalissimo - August 2013 www.minimalissimo.com
International Photography Awards 2013 - 3rd prize - Category Architecture
Photography Masters Cup 2014 - Nominee - Category Architecture
PX3 Prix De La Photographie Paris 2015 - Honorable Mention - Theme White
Limited edition prints for sale
My new photo book “Mission Ready” is focused on the 493rd Fighter Squadron “Grim Reapers”. They are the last to fly the F-15C Eagle in Europe. The squadron has been awarded the coveted Raytheon Trophy for “Best Fighter Squadron of the U.S. Air Force” no less than six times. A unique accomplishment.
From 2016 to 2021, I documented the operations of the squadron across Europe and experienced firsthand what it takes to be a fighter pilot during a training mission in an F-15 jet.
When my project idea was approved by the U.S. Air Force, I knew it was going to be quite a ride. But it was so much more than I had anticipated. It was an amazing experience to be amongst these highly trained professionals and document their daily lives on base, unseen by the general public.
The book takes its audience to the start of a mission, through maintenance, life on the flight line and eventually getting airborne.
Communication Arts 2023 | Award of Excellence
IPA 2022 | Documentary Books | Honorable Mention
IPA 2022 | Self-published Books | Honorable Mention
IPA 2022 | People/Portraits | Honorable Mention
IPA 2022 | People/Portraits | Jury Top 5 Selection
Featured in Volkskrant Magazine - August 2022
Featured in De Telegraaf newspaper - November 2022
Featured in Nieuwe Revu magazine - December 2023
Featured on www.key.aero (Combat Aircraft Journal / Airforces Monthly) - December 2022
Featured on www.theaviationgeekclub.com - September 2022
MISSION READY
Inside the Best Fighter Squadron of the U.S. Air Force
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Photography Patrick van Dam
Design Patrick van Dam, Sybren Kuiper
Clothbound
232 pages
23 cm x 30 cm
110 photographs
Published 2022
ISBN 978-94-64373-88-2
Edition 1,000 copies
For more info www.missionready-thebook.com
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Product photography © The Book Photographer
When a country is in an economic crisis it so often results in images of despair and grief. It rarely occurs that beauty is seen or captured during these challenging times. In this case however, beauty is definitely visible. An almost surreal beauty, appearing to be directed by mother nature.
This photo series will take its audience to different Greek islands where the development and sales of villa's and hotels have been postponed because of the economic crisis. These bone-like, concrete structures are far from being completed. Some have already waited years for financial aid. Which most likely will not happen anytime soon.
The projects were developed on the most wonderful and unique locations. On hillsides with breathtaking sea views or on mountains surrounded by olive trees, enclosed with privacy and serenity.
The architectural lines combined with the ash-grey concrete structures are an attractive contrast against the rough, red-coloured rocks, the warm yellow high grass and the olive green bushes and trees. This almost abstract scenery shows a unique synergy between architecture and nature. It creates a new and intriguing landscape in which failure, poverty and hopelessness are easily forgotten.
International Photography Awards 2013 - Honorable Mention - Category Deeper Perspective
Featured on CNN Photos - April 2013
Featured by London School of Economics - March 2014
Bare concrete, abstract-lined floors, dulled symmetry with matching gloomy lighting… the barren greyscape of parking garages is a world unto its own. Desolate and unloved, unlike the iconic and shapely beauties that one might occasionally encounter. With their iconic identities and timeless charm, these gentlemen’s prides will be treasured for many years to come.
From top to bottom:
Alfa Romeo Montreal 1973
Porsche 911 Turbo 1980
Jaguar XJ6 1972
Renault Alpine 1983
DMC DeLorean 1982
Citroën SM 1972
BMW 3.0 CS 1975
Ferrari 400 1974
Mercedes 450 SL 1979
Chevrolet Camaro 1975
Limited edition prints for sale
The awarded photo book "Playboy Behind The Scenes" gives a unique look into the mysterious world of Playboy Magazine through personal and intimate photos of tangible moments during Playmate and celebrity photo shoots. Over 150 photos of unexpected, undirected and natural responses; humor, disillusionment, absurdism and vulnerability in an erotic setting.
Mr. Hugh M. Hefner, editor-in-chief of Playboy Magazine, wrote the introduction of the book. "In these compelling images, Patrick has captured the soul of the Playboy shoot and offered a true celebration of, and homage to, the people who make these beautiful things happen. Vividly here is the intimacy, the fun, and the dedication it takes to create the very best in contemporary erotica. And along the way, true to his calling, he gives the reader a peek behind the curtain of the Playboy lifestyle."
Communication Arts Photo Annual 2012 - Best Photo Book
International Photography Awards 2012 - Honorable Mention
Photography Masters Cup 2013 - Nominated
Featured on www.featureshoot.com - February 2014
Featured on www.designtaxi.com - September 2017
PLAYBOY BEHIND THE SCENES
Photography Patrick van Dam
Design Patrick van Dam
Hardcover
224 pages
18.5 cm x 23.5 cm
Published 2011
ISBN 978-90-85748-88-5
First edition 1,500 copies (sold out)
I have a fascination for tunnels. Driving through a tunnel, I feel as if I’m in a sci-fi movie and my vessel has just been launched into space from the mothership. I love the slated concrete, the symmetry and the never-ending perspective. It’s pleasing to the eye. The lighting, the shape and the place it takes you to makes each tunnel unique. A tunnel is an essential artery in the flow of traffic, an undervalued piece of engineering and design.
Please meet Holland’s finest.
From top to bottom:
Eerste Coentunnel
Maastunnel
Sijtwendetunnel
Koning Willem-Alexandertunnel
Velsertunnel
Hubertustunnel
Vlaketunnel
Noordertunnel
Piet Heintunnel
Leidsche Rijntunnel
Michiel de Ruijtertunnel
International Photography Awards 2017 - Honorable Mention - Category Architecture
Featured in Volkskrant Magazine - October 2017
My good friend, Sarah, has Cystic Fibrosis. It’s a chronic and fatal disease that comes with a shortened life expectancy. Her body has to work overtime to cope with increasing shortness of breath. A 9-to-5 job is impossible as it would simply drain her energy.
We decided to create a photo book about her life with this disease, to raise awareness. Her ups and downs, and everything in between. Ever since we started this project in 2013, it has become clear to me that the story we’re telling is not just about a disease. Foremost, it’s about unconditional love.
I feel fortunate to be a part of her life and blessed to do this project with her.
PX3 Prix De La Photographie Paris 2016 - Honorable Mention - Category Documentary
--- work in progress ---
Space is no longer the exclusive domain of institutions like NASA and ESA. The Amsterdam-based XCOR Space Expeditions was one of the key players offering commercial space flights to astro tourists. Through developing and producing highly reusable and affordable engines and vehicles with low service requirements, XCOR’s platforms dramatically increased the viability of space missions and opportunities across markets. Sadly, the company could not sustain during challenging times and ceased operations. I’m currently working on a “behind the scenes” coffee table book covering the gamut – from the training of future astronauts to the building of the Lynx spacecraft in Mojave, California – of what it takes to get to the ultimate final frontier.
--- work in progress ---
Singapore’s fast growing economy has not gone unnoticed. Hoisting cranes and construction sites are common ingredients in its ever-changing landscape. So common that the many people working on these sites have become mere silhouettes without a face.
Today over 1.3 million migrant workers call Singapore their temporary home. That’s nearly one-fifth of the total population. Most hail from India, Bangladesh and China. Although their numbers are impressive, they too get lonesome as they’re away from their homes and families for several years. Many of the low-wage laborers face a hard life with long and unsafe working hours, unclean food catering service and overcrowded housing conditions.
Thankfully the Government of Singapore has taken a series of steps to enhance the protection of foreign workers and improve their welfare. Although most of them remain anonymous to the local population, they are just as much a part of the society as anyone else living here. Without them Singapore would not be where it is today.
Featured in Shutr Magazine - October 2017
Red Flag is an advanced aerial combat training exercise. The mission is to maximize the combat readiness and survivability of participants by providing a realistic training environment. During a Red Flag exercise the Aggressor Squadron, or "bandits", acts as the opponent against the pilots undergoing training. They fly according to the tactical doctrines of the Soviet Union in order to better simulate real combat situations. The Aggressor Squadron pilots are selected from the top fighter pilots in the U.S. Air Force.
Their F-16s are painted in color schemes commonly found on Soviet aircraft.
Back in the day, men had the right stuff. Daredevils with nerves of steel. Space explorers who ate fear for breakfast. Strapped up in their pressure suits on a rocket filled with highly flammable fuel. These space cowboys were catapulted into orbit and they took humanity to the moon and back. Uncertain about the results of their mission knowing other brave attempts had failed. Driving around the extensive grounds of Kennedy Space Center, you’ll sense an unforgettable chapter of history was written here. I wonder if men will ever set foot on the moon again. But until that day comes, we can always look up and marvel at their courageous achievements.
Photography Masters Cup 2013 - Nominee - Category Americana
She's not your typical Playmate. She won't flaunt her femininity; she’s not the push-up-bra-and-high-heels kinda girl. Still, she's amazingly sexy. Even in faded sweatpants, an old t-shirt and no make-up. Enjoying her private time, listening to music as she gazes out the window. Daylight is reflected on her satin skin, caressing her subtle, natural curves. She seems to be lost in thought continuously; her green eyes will tell you a story but they won't reveal everything. There's more to Sarah than just a pretty face. Much more. A penny for her thoughts.
Featured in Playboy Magazine (USA) - June 2013
