Photographer Rob Blanken is the Edge of Humanity Magazine contributor of this photo essay. From the project ‘Vulnerability’. To see Robert’s body of work, click on any photograph.

In 2017, I was involved in a traffic accident resulting in motor problems with my right arm. Consequently, I could no longer fully perform my work as a dermatologist. In short, an accident with far-reaching consequences and an event that made me realize how vulnerable we are. I decided to start a project with vulnerability as its subject.

Vulnerability refers to the diminished capacity of an individual or group to withstand the effects of a hostile environment.

This theme has several aspects: physical vulnerability of the individual, of larger groups and of species but also vulnerability of ecosystems. Beauty and strength also lie in vulnerability. Man is perhaps the most vulnerable species, both physically and mentally.

 About the photographer: 

Rob Blanken (1956) is a passionate nature photographer from the Netherlands. Rob has special interest in creative photography and has developed a distinctive style. He calls it NATURE's ART. Birds, insects and abstracts are his main interests. He wants to tell a story with his images and likes to work on projects. 'I want to discover how more, or less ordinary subjects can be made visible in a special, in-depth but also artistic way. Making the 'unseen' visible, both for the photographer and the viewer. That's what it's about'. Important parts of this trip are studying the subject, a good portion of imagination and courage and sparring with fellow travelers. Technically, unusual positions, extreme exposures, high magnifications and extremely slow shutter speeds have frequently been used. 

Rob lives in the countryside of Friesland, the Netherlands. He used to work as a dermatologist, a profession where good observation is very important.  

Rob’s work has been recognized in several photographic competitions.

All images and text © Robert Blanken