Joris van Alphen Photography specializes in nature and science reportage through photography, film, and writing. My mission is to share the wonders of the natural world, to explore the relationship between humans and the environment, and to connect people with scientific research.
Photography Portfolios
Underwater
Photographs from the silent world.
Science
Editorial work for scientific and science-related magazines.
People
Portraits and other people images.
Photo Stories & Films
Mystery of Mount Kinabalu
In September 2012 an international team of scientists set out on a major scientific expedition to unravel the origins of life on Mt Kinabalu, the highest mountain in Borneo. Geheim van de Kinabalu ('Mystery of Mount Kinabalu') appeared in the February 2013 issue of National Geographic Magazine Netherlands–Belgium. This story is protected for licensing reasons. Request access.
Posidonia
The crystal-clear waters of Ibiza and Formentera are legendary, drawing millions of tourists to these Spanish Mediterranean islands every year. The turquoise water, rich marine life, and spectacular beaches all owe their existence to a unique flowering plant that lives entirely underwater: Posidonia, or seagrass.
2:00 minutes
552 views
Borneo Biodiversity
A celebration of the Heart of Borneo's spectacular biodiversity. Part of the international photographic conservation initiative Meet Your Neighbours.
Joris Kijkt
One year long I portrayed employees of the University of Groningen, seeking out professions from the unusual to the oft overlooked. This photo series was commissioned by Universiteitskrant Groningen and appeared in a monthly, full-page feature called Joris Kijkt.
De Nieuwe Wildernis (Teaser)
De Nieuwe Wildernis is a documentary feature film about the Oostvaardersplassen that will appear in theaters in 2013. It is produced by EMS Films, who have commissioned me to film the underwater scenes.
0:57 minutes
Passion for the Whale
How two women are taking on Chilean industry and government to save the giants of the oceans—and winning. Passie voor de walvis ('Passion for the whale') appeared in the May 2012 issue of National Geographic Magazine Netherlands–Belgium.
Featured Posts
-
Photo of the Month: Porcelain Crab
May 9, 2013
Only three centimeters in size, his beautiful porcelain crab is seeking shelter between the tentacles of a carpet sea anemone. Like anemonefish, it has a special trick to keep safe from the poisonous sting of its host.
-
Spring Gets in Swing
April 23, 2013
Ah! Can you smell it? It's nature's season of romance... Or is it?
-
New National Geographic Story Out: Mystery of Mount Kinabalu
February 1, 2013
My new story for National Geographic, Mystery of Mount Kinabalu, is now out in the Netherlands and Belgium.
-
Blogging From the Field
December 20, 2012
In the wee hours of the night, when most of the expedition party had long retired to bed, I would typically find myself sitting outside in the dark under a porch, sheltering from the never-ending rain, and quietly cursing at my laptop.
-
The Field Biologist
December 6, 2012
The field biologist. He braves cold, miserable mountain peaks, exposes himself to parasites, leeches and tropical disease, spends months away from family and loved ones... and for what?











