while everyone else is
playing checkers, we’re
playing chess. literally.
for one of the University of Amsterdam’s oldest student associations, Rostra Economica, we took charge of photography for a number of their 2026 events. perhaps the most invigorating was Rostra’s 2026 chess tournament.

Rostra Chess

the challenge

the approach

our chief photographer, Romain Faure, worked his usual magic, contrasting competitive intensity with laughter and joy through his compositions. for this event, we used the venue’s natural lighting to amplify the emotions of rivalry.

the soloution

concentration and content, determination and deceit. the players’ eyes are shadowed when looking down at their boards, but their smiles emphasised as they look across at their opponent.

the result

The result is a selection of photos that highlights how light-hearted competition can bring us closer together. A night of community, beers and games, we couldn’t have been happier to be a part of it.

while everyone else isplaying checkers, we’replaying chess. literally.for one of the University of Amsterdam’s oldest student associations, Rostra Economica, we took charge of photography for a number of their 2026 events. perhaps the most invigorating was Rostra’s 2026 chess tournament.