“What’s a Dolf?”
This is a real question that my friend was once asked when they mentioned my name. To give an answer, I am a person—one who loves the outdoors, quality time spent with friends, and trying to do it all justice using my ever-evolving collection of camera gear.
On days off (and sometimes on), you’ll find me exploring my backyard, staying active, and soaking up quieter moments with loved ones. When there’s an opportunity to travel, you won’t find me at all-inclusive beach resorts, but rather in unknown and untamed places; it’s the remote, wild, and less-travelled landscapes that leave me feeling the most inspired.
Crazy to think that photography and videography have paid my bills for over a decade now! I’m not going to pretend that every moment is perfect but at the year’s end I find that many of my most memorable and rewarding experiences came on the job. I often say that “this career isn’t going to make me rich, but it will make me rich with experiences”— it’s this natural overlap between work and play that I’m exceptionally grateful for.
Fortunately, the fact that I love what I do is why I’m good at it. This is what keeps me motivated. It’s the reason it’s easy to put in long hours, wake up early, stay out late, and continually improve my craft.
I’ve had many opportunities to grow my business over the years but have always made the conscious decision to keep it small. This choice has partially stemmed from selfish reasons (I rather be working behind the camera than managing people) but I can honestly say it’s mainly been strategic as—despite being 6’6”—I’m a firm believer that small is mighty!
You see, when a freelance creator takes the plunge towards becoming a production studio the quality curve doesn’t necessarily see a steep increase, but the cost curve absolutely will. All of a sudden client projects need to support multiple full-time salaries along with the massive influx of overhead costs that comes with expansion (commercial lease, multiple camera kits, team software licensing, etc). Don’t get me wrong, there is absolutely a time and a place for this and when done correctly this is the path to creating the highest quality media possible. For the right clientele there is a lot of benefit in this model but for many businesses the value proposition begins to decrease.
My goal? Maintain a steadfast focus to deliver high quality media while continuing to keep my operation small, nimble and effecient. In doing so I’m not only able to offer great value but it also allows me to remain flexible and work with my client’s needs. If a project would benefit from additional support I’m well connected in the industry and can contract in help as needed.
Small business, big impact.
“Through photography I hope to create a connection to nature, inspire conservation, and provoke your sense of adventure! ”
— Dolf Vermeulen, Artist Statement
When you hire me, you also get access to my gear.
Aside from my expertise and time, my rates also include the use of a wide range of professional gear. Story and process are the most important factors in creating impactful media but there’s no doubt that quality gear makes for a more reliable shooting process and expands creative possibilities. This is why I continue to invest into my business and make sure that I have the tools needed to best serve my clients.
Transport Canada licensed for advanced drone operations
General liability and WBC insured
