Pause
Authentic portraits.
Plan your PAUSE now ›
“Ifyou get the chance to work with Michiel, do it. Without hesitation. He is an incredibly professional photographer who knows exactly what he is doing. His eye for detail, calmness, and craftsmanship are guaranteed to produce beautiful results .”
Portrait photographer & street photography
I create portraits. I also take headshots for companies throughout the Netherlands. I give workshops and lectures on street photography —a passion that has shaped my way of seeing and that I love to share with other photographers.
In June 2025, I was a guest on the RTL 4 program Het Perfecte Plaatje. My work has been exhibited from Domburg to Paris and Milan. I have written three books on photography, contribute monthly to Photofacts, and wrote columns for Focus Magazine for two years.
My passion for photography also has another major outlet. For more than 100 episodes now, I have been producing the podcast 30 Minuten Sluitertijd(30 Minutes Shutter Speed) with my photography friend Niels de Kemp, which has become a fixture in the Dutch and Belgian photography landscape.
My experience as a street photographer is reflected in my portrait work: I quickly see what works, recognize the right moment, and know how to put people at ease. No stiff poses, just real photos you can be proud of.
Michielknows how to capture beautiful moments from everyday life with surprising compositions and tasteful images.
"Man, you take such beautiful photos."
Business portraits & headshots
I take portrait photos and headshots for medium to large companies. Team photos for your website, LinkedIn portraits for colleagues, portrait series for annual reports, or profile photos of the management team.
What makes my approach different?
I help you decide on the look and feel. Accessible and warm or professional and sleek? That choice determines the location, lighting, and poses. We discuss in advance what suits you best.
Fast, yet with plenty of time
During headshot sessions, I often photograph 15 to 20 people in a day. Even then, I maintain a relaxed atmosphere, without any rush. Everyone gets the time they need to take a photo they are happy with.
(Street) photography workshops
In addition to my portrait work, I give workshops on street photography. Not just any workshops - I work conceptually. No random snapshots, but working from a keyword that gives your photography structure and depth.
From individual images to a story
In my workshops, you choose your own keyword: Solitude, Interaction, Reflection, Rhythm. That keyword becomes a filter for your gaze and ensures that you look more purposefully. You come home with the beginning of a series that feels right.
Small and personal
Maximum of 5 participants per workshop. This allows time for questions and personal feedback. After the workshop, you send me five photos, which I will review and discuss at my leisure.
Portraits with attention
Through my street photography, I have learned that you should not judge a book by its cover. Every person has their own story, and only after knowing that story can a photographer create a true portrait.
Coffee and cameras
During my PAUSE session , we take the time to talk. In a half-day session, the first two hours may be spent solely on getting acquainted and building mutual trust.
A summary of the conversation
The relaxed portrait that follows is a summary of the conversation we have. You will see that you radiate calmness and confidence, without an awkward look.
Motivational and inspiring lectures
I regularly give lectures on street photography, in which I take you through my process and overwhelm you with lots of examples. I tell my stories from the street and explain why I never encounter any problems when photographing people.
The Law of the Street
Of course, the legal side of things will also be discussed. The large gray area and the things that are crystal clear. What constitutes secret photography and why it is not allowed, for example. And what exactly is privacy anyway?
Conceptually hitting the streets
After all my experiences, I now approach the street differently, conceptually. Fewer photos, and more focused. In the lecture, I explain how I see and approach this.
I really enjoy working for these fantastic companies.
Poelmann van den Broek Advocaten
Merlet College
NMG Wonen
Van Winssen Personeel
ITV Studios
Briskr / Radboudumc
Atelier Meer²
ROC Nijmegen
Municipality of Nijmegen
CBT North Limburg
Museum Hilversum
Frans & Dave Insurance
Eigen Haard
DAR
Want to collaborate?
Please contact us
Want to collaborate? Need a new portrait? PAUSE? Or perhaps you have questions about my workshops or lectures?