24 Hours of Waiting. 20 Seconds with a Lynx
Ferry Vermeulen
Duration
1h 20min
24 Hours of Waiting. 20 Seconds with a Lynx.
What does it take to photograph one of Europe's rarest wild cats? Sometimes, 24 hours of waiting for just 20 seconds of opportunity.
In the very first episode of Into the Hide, host Martijn sits down with founder and wildlife photography enthusiast Ferry Vermeulen to explore what really happens behind the camouflage.
From Childhood Curiosity to Wildlife Photography
Ferry shares how his childhood fascination with animals eventually led him back to nature photography during the COVID pandemic. What started with wildlife photography workshops gradually developed into a passion for spending time in hides, observing animals in their natural habitats.
The Lynx Encounter
Deep in the Spanish countryside, Ferry spent two consecutive days waiting for an Iberian lynx. Twelve hours on the first day brought nothing but a few birds, rabbits, and plenty of time alone with his thoughts.
As the second day drew to a close, just minutes before the rangers were due to collect him, a rabbit suddenly burst from the bushes. Moments later, a lynx appeared.
The encounter lasted barely 20 seconds. But after 24 hours of waiting, those few seconds made the entire experience worthwhile.
Beyond the Photograph
The conversation goes beyond camera settings and wildlife encounters. Ferry reflects on the challenges of solitude, the difference between patience and being truly present, and one of the most important lessons wildlife photography has taught him: letting go of control.
You can choose your equipment, prepare your camera, and find the perfect hide. But nature decides what happens next.
And sometimes, the experience of waiting becomes just as meaningful as the photograph itself.
Listen to the episode to discover the full story behind the encounter and the philosophy that inspired Into the Hide.