The story behind Eline with the Lobster

Courage, the sea, and Zeeland heritage

In the summer of 2020, we worked on the photo series Zeeuws Meisje #Broederschap (Zeeland Girl #Brotherhood). A project that originated during a period when caring for each other and connectedness were more central than ever. This image was also created within that series: Eline, in traditional costume, standing in the sea with a lobster in her arm.

Creating this image was exciting. It was one of the first times that a model fully dressed in traditional costume was actually photographed in the sea. There were many questions beforehand. What would the water do to the costume? To the hair? To the jewelry? And what would it be like for Eline herself, standing in the waves?

The sea made its presence felt.
Of the two lobsters, only one eventually remained – the other took its own, well-deserved freedom in the surf. The hair stayed surprisingly well, the jewelry gained an extra shine from the seawater, and Eline stood firm as the waves crashed against her.

What emerged was an image with tension and tranquility at the same time.
A moment where Zeeland heritage, the sea, and humanity come together. Not staged symbolism, but a real moment, captured as it was.

This artwork shows that courage is sometimes necessary to achieve something special. That it pays to step off the beaten path and allow the image to emerge, despite uncertainty and circumstances.

Eline with the lobster is therefore more than a photo. It is a tangible reminder of daring, trust, and connection with the sea — core values that continue to inspire Zeeland Girl.

Love,
Ana