I am Katja Bouwman, a Dutch street photographer living in Zurich. Born and raised in the Netherlands, I moved to Switzerland in 2003. My first experience with photography came as a teenager when I transformed our bathroom into a darkroom, using black garbage bags to block out the light. I loved the process and the magic of watching the first tones of my creation vaguely appear. During my pharmacy studies and work as a hospital pharmacist across the German-speaking regions of Switzerland, my life became filled with professional responsibilities and family, leaving little room for artistic expression.

In 2023, following a severe burnout, I started taking photos with my mobile phone during long walks through nature and the streets of Zurich. This is how I rediscovered my love for photography. Just six months later, I bought my first digital camera — a Fuji X-T5 — and shifted from random color shots to a focus on black and white street photography, where I found my true passion.

For me, street photography is a form of meditation — a mix of mindfulness, focus and observation. It’s all about being fully present and noticing those little moments that tell powerful stories. The instant I press the shutter button to freeze time is incredibly satisfying. Through my lens, I want to share my unique perspective on the world in black and white with you — from joyful, light moments to the darker, more somber tones and all the shades of grey in between. Visit my portfolio to see what I’m talking about!