Joost Smeets is a 40-year-old passionate semi-professional landscape photographer from the Netherlands based in Nazaré - Portugal. After a long break, he restarted in 2021 with photography. 

 

For Joost, photography is more than making just the picture… It’s the whole process of capturing the perfect shot and preparing the gear, traveling, finding the right time and spot, being in nature, and seeing the final result on the wall of somebody’s house. Every picture has its own story. Besides this, photography has a therapeutic and healing effect: nature gives peace and release from stress.  


 

Nazaré 

I remember the first time in 2022 when I arrived in Nazaré: the intense noise of the big waves smashing on the cliffs. Even the ground was shaking. I only stayed at the cliffs and the lighthouse during the first days. I was completely impressed and hypnotized by the waves, the surfers, and the whole atmosphere. At that time, I was just shooting and had no idea who was surfing. It was a completely new world for me. When I returned home, I changed my plans, packed my stuff, and moved to Nazaré. Nazaré stole my heart.



 

My second season ('23-'24) was more serious and dedicated. Francisco, a big wave rider and founder of team Red Herrings, and Heidi Hansen introduced me to the big wave scene in Nazaré and helped me with an exhibition at the harbor. I’ve made a lot of new friends in Nazaré. Nazaré has a great international community with very talented photo- & videographers. I’m proud to be a part of it. 



 

This year, it will be my 3rd season. And it seems that it will not be my last.

I look forward to meeting you on the cliffs or in the harbor. Tot snel!


 

Achievements


2nd place Nazaré Mercedes Benz winter sessions 23-24 - category Wipe-out