As policies shift and late-stage capitalism continues to compress spaces for diversity and coexistence, my work is driven by freedom of self-expression and identity. I create in spaces that actively support that freedom and on the individuals shaping subcultures within them, from artists to visionary entrepreneurs. Working in close collaboration with my subjects, I construct dreamscapes influenced by fashion and nightlife.
I aim to hold complexity without reducing people to fixed narratives or moral positions. In order to do so, I work from within the communities I photograph, rather than observing from afar. Through my proximity to the community, I use image-making to explore questions of identity and power beyond verbal debate. In my practice, freedom requires discipline. Through preparation, research and structure, I provide the conditions for release, allowing each shoot to be both intentional, yet open to unpredictability leading to undeniable freedom.
Each shoot is approached with a strong sense of responsibility. I create a structured yet open space for experimentation, vulnerability and playfulness, that is grounded in respect and dignity. Within that space, my subjects experience freedom, recognise their agency and step into the limelight as the protagonists of their own story.
From Medical School to Fashion School
From a young age, I followed my own rhythm, choosing paths that defied expectations. Despite of the expectations to go to medical school I followed my passion and studied Fashion and Design at the Amsterdam Fashion Institute (AMFI). Some saw it as throwing away potential, but to me, it was the only way forward.
Styling & Photography
After completing my BA at AMFI, I worked as a stylist for V Magazine which opened new doors. I discovered my love for the fast-paced, creative energy of a photoshoot. Back in Amsterdam I started working as a stylist at G-Star and doing photography in the Amsterdam nightlife scene. It was at one of these festivals that I crossed paths with Raymond van Mill, the photo editor at Vice. His suggestion to shoot for Vice was a dream come true, and within weeks, I was capturing my first series, “My NYC,” for the magazine.
Social impact & Activism
After two years of freelancing as a photographer and stylist, I reached another crossroads. While I loved the creative freedom, I knew I needed to expand my horizons. I returned to school, earning a Master’s in Cultural Economics and Entrepreneurship from Erasmus University. This chapter sparked a new interest in activism and social impact. As a board member of Native Agency, I worked to create opportunities for underrepresented photojournalists by collaborating with renowned platforms like Vogue, World Press Photo, and Visura.
Multi-Passionate Creative
I continued to explore new roles, working as an art director for Nachtlab Agency, curating an exhibition for Museumnacht Amsterdam at Sexyland World, and even designing an art installation for Mark it Down and ID&T. In 2022 joined Studio HER, a collective and agency supporting female and non-binary filmmakers.
Today my work is not only about creating striking visuals, but also about empowering voices, driving change, and telling stories that matter.
2026 Opening JN Studio at the Makerstoren
2026 First fine art print sale
2026 New York Times publication
2025 Carrière maken in de Big Apple, FD Persoonlijk
2025 Peter Pannekoek, NPO Special
2023 Group expo Studio Her, Amsterdam
2023 “Into the Night” retrospective photography expo,
Mark It Down and ID&T Amsterdam
2022 Nomination Best Costume Design New Vision International Film Festival Club Lockdown, Amsterdam
2021 Curator Native Agency Expo Vogue Photo Festival, Milan
2021Silent Night Expo Museumnacht, Amsterdam
2021 Music video "Vol" by Merol premiere at NFF
2021 Club Lockdown premiere NFF, Utrecht
2020 Gup Photography Talent Expo, Kahmann Gallery
2020 Gup Photography Talent 2021
2020 "Stille Nacht" publication FD Persoonlijk
2019 Music video "Hoop met Jou"
premiere Melkweg Amsterdam
2018 Expo "Nachtvlinders", Nachtlab Amsterdam
2018 Expo "Women in Non traditional Jobs",
United Nations & Dutch Embassy
Magda Grigorian - TEFAF Head of PR and Communications (Global)
“Jitske has been a valued member of the TEFAF creative family for several years, contributing significantly to our on-site photography at the fairs in Maastricht and New York. Her keen eye is unmatched, as she skillfully captures the essence of the TEFAF experience, engaging viewers with a sense of intimacy and drama. We are consistently impressed by her work, which has quickly set the gold standard for our team. We feel fortunate to collaborate with Jitske!”
Nicola Stein + Dianne Tanzer - Directors “THIS IS NO FANTASY”
“Jitske is the whole package. Her images are excellent and she's fantastic to work with - very personable and professional and she always meets deadlines.”
Ashar Medina - Screen writer & director
Known from Morco Maffia & Santos
“Jitske’s vision for the short film Club Lockdown was exciting, provocative and full of details. It brought the Covid-horror movie to life in a way, which was beyond my expectations. Her nomination for the New Vision Award is therefore well deserved.”
Joop Angenent - CFO Triomf, Booker Triomf Agency & DJ
“For the past decade, Jitske has been our go-to photographer for events and decor design. She captures our guests and products in the most elegant manner possible.”
Joanna Toetenel - Founder and Artist “Custom Ode”
“During my artist residency in Ibiza, Jitske Nap beautifully captured my creative process. With her eye for detail and sense of timing she doesn’t just take pictures; she tells stories. Without being intrusive, she managed to capture the essence of my work perfectly—every photo and video shines. Jitske is professional, authentic, and highly recommended for anyone looking to showcase their work in a unique way”
Carolien Vos - Hormone expert
“I really enjoyed the photoshoot with Jitske. I needed last-minute photos for the website where I work as a hormone expert. Jitske made me feel confident and had such great ideas. The photos perfectly capture the vibe I want to showcase on the website ❤️”
Fien Reerds - De Kiesmannen
“We are very happy with Jitske as our go-to photographer for our political theatre shows. She has the talent to have a perfect timing when capturing special interactions. She also always knows how to capture the atmosphere in the room beautifully in atmospheric pictures. We can definitely recommend her!”
Ezra Verhagen - Marketing Manager Orkater
“Jitske is a fantastic photographer and a pleasure to work with. She's flexible and open to feedback. She is dedicated and gives it all, which shows in the results. We're very happy with the photo’s she took of our program.”
Jordy den Haan - Director Museumnacht Amsterdam
“We’ve had the pleasure of working with Jitske for several editions of Museumnacht Amsterdam, where she captures the event’s photography.
Beforehand, we have a short briefing to discuss the team’s wishes, which Jitske effortlessly translates into images that truly reflect the atmosphere of the night. She has a great ability to step into the shoes of both the organization and the visitor, making her photos a genuine representation of the experience.
Working with Jitske is always a joy, her communication is clear, her delivery fast and flawless, and she offers valuable suggestions to make the briefing even more focused.”
Rachel Hansoul - Performance Artist “My Pussy is coming for you”
“Jitske is a photographer that understands the assignment and over-delivers! She captures magical moments and you are left with high quality pictures that reflect the essence of the story you're telling <3”
Kim Kuijper - Director “The Citydressers”
“Working with Jitske Nap has been a creative journey like no other. For over a decide long now. She doesn’t just photograph events; she brings them to life, capturing the mood, energy, and essence of each gathering, whether it's Confetteria or a Citydressers installation. And her lens tells a story, a story not to forget. She is our memory and one of us. Jitske’s mix of fashion-forward eye, uniqueness and a true gift for storytelling and capturing the light turns our moments into something memorable and iconic—leaving everyone with a lasting impression of both artistry and authenticity. We love to work with you Jitske <3”
Laura Kemp - Marketing Manager Bellevue Theater
“If we want to capture an event, Jitske is always the first person we call! She knows how to capture people in the most spontaneous moments and can adapt quickly to any situation.”
Nidhi Chadha - Actions coordinator Amnesty International
“Jitske offers a creative and unique vibe, combined with a professional way of working. She knows how to bring the right elements together and finds a way to deliver even more than you were looking for!”
Inge Kea - Director Ninjin Agency
“Jitske offers a creative vision to photography. She is solution orientated and helps us visualize our visions in an unexpected way.”
Connect with me on Insta!
