Capturing the Intensity of the Tour of Flanders: The Lens of Lars Crommelinck

The Tour of Flanders, known affectionately as De Ronde, is more than just a race. it’s a visceral experience defined by grueling climbs, unpredictable weather, and raw human emotion. While the riders battle for glory, photographers like Lars Crommelinck work to translate that intensity into still images that resonate long after the finish line. For Crommelinck, a Ghent-based freelance photographer and content creator, the race represents a masterclass in sports storytelling.

The Evolution of a Sporting Narrative

Capturing a world-class cycling event requires more than technical skill; it requires an understanding of the race’s emotional arc. By the 2024 Tour of Flanders, Crommelinck had spent five consecutive years photographing the event for Flanders Classics. However, the 2024 edition marked a strategic shift in his coverage.

Rather than focusing on the traditional finish line shot, Crommelinck was tasked with capturing the immediate aftermath. This transition allowed him to document the unfiltered emotions of the athletes and their inner circles. In a season characterized by “crappy” weather and pouring rain, the focus shifted from the victory itself to the human cost of that victory—portraying tears of emotion blended with rain and the visible stress on the faces of loved ones.

Focusing on Greatness: Mathieu van der Poel

A central figure in the landscape of modern cycling and a frequent subject of Crommelinck’s work is Mathieu van der Poel. The sheer scale of Van der Poel’s achievements makes him a compelling subject for any sports photographer. His resume includes:

• Cyclo-cross World Champion: 7-time gold medalist.
• UCI Road World Championships: 2023 winner.
• Milano-Sanremo: 2023 winner.
• Tour of Flanders: 2020 winner.

The challenge for a photographer in this environment is avoiding the cliché. While hundreds of cameras often crowd the finish line to capture the winner’s pose, the real value lies in the candid, high-pressure moments that occur in the periphery of the celebration.

Beyond the Peloton

While the Tour of Flanders is a cornerstone of his portfolio, Crommelinck’s expertise extends across various high-energy environments. His work as a content creator in Ghent includes diverse projects, such as capturing Charlotte de Witte in 2025 for Stubru, demonstrating a versatility that blends sports analytics with lifestyle and music photography.

Key Takeaways: Sports Photography at the Elite Level

• Emotional Depth: Moving beyond the “action shot” to capture the aftermath of a race provides a more comprehensive story.
• Consistency: Long-term assignments, such as five consecutive years with Flanders Classics, allow a photographer to evolve their style, and access.
• Adaptability: Working through extreme weather conditions is essential for documenting the true nature of the Flemish classics.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The relationship between the photographer and the race continues to evolve. With mentions of the Tour of Flanders ’26 (#RVV26) already appearing in professional circles, the focus remains on how to push the boundaries of sports content creation to bring viewers closer to the grit and glory of the sport.