Learn to look, feel and build light
A good portrait starts not with technique but with attention. During the 1-on-1 portrait photography workshop in my studio in Wijchen, it's all about that interplay of light, people and moment. You and me, a model, a couple of lamps and four hours to learn, try and discover.
We work practically, play with shadow and reflection, talk aloud and explore light. No big group, no rush. Just look, photograph, understand together.
A studio full of light, ideas and conversation
My studio in Wijchen is set up to work but mostly to discover. We start with a conversation about what you want to learn or where you get stuck. Then we build up the light step by step. Sometimes with one lamp, sometimes with several. We use what is there: reflections, walls, daylight, maybe a background roll or a piece of foil that breaks the light just a little differently.
We work with a model, but I will also occasionally put you in front of the lens myself. Not to pose but to feel what light does. How it feels to be in front of the camera. I find that extremely important to make the right connection. We discuss everything we do out loud, so you learn from the process.
"A portrait is not made in the camera but on either side of it."
Edward Steichen
Technique and feeling
The 1-on-1 workshop is suitable for amateur photographers and professionals who want to deepen their portrait photography. Whether you are just starting out with flash or already have studio experience, we will build on your knowledge and style.
We discuss settings, light shapers, reflectors and the use of continuous light or flash. But equally, we talk about posture, connection and calm. About what makes a good portrait, and why a photo touches.
This workshop is not a lesson but a conversation about photography, about looking and about choices.
Or contact us for more information via the contact page.
What to expect
We work together for four hours. In that time, we build one or more setups, discuss the images in between, and really learn to understand light. Half the time we work with model, the other half we use to watch, analyse and try new things.
The focus is on insight. How do you take direction? How do you play with light? How do you trust your own view? Afterwards, you go home with images, but above all with ideas. New ways of looking. Probably a renewed curiosity about portrait photography.
Who this workshop is made for
This 1-on-1 portrait photography workshop is for anyone who wants to move forward. For those who want to understand why a photograph works. For those who are not looking for buttons but for direction. Who wants to look differently, interact, develop their own style.
Whether you use portrait photography for clients, free projects or your own growth, here you are allowed to practice, fail and discover. Everything is allowed on the table. Everything is negotiable.
Why 1-on-1?
Because learning is personal. In a group, you often don't get as far. In a 1-on-1 workshop, you have all your attention. Everything revolves around your way of working, your style, your questions.
We take the time to really look at what you want to learn. This could be about light, direction, or how to bring depth and calm to your portraits. The best moment of such a session is that moment when the light is right and the portrait breathes.
Investing in yourself
You don't become a good portrait photographer overnight. You grow by doing, learning, talking and watching. This 1-on-1 workshop is an investment in your development as a photographer. For four hours we work intensively together in my studio in Wijchen. We talk briefly beforehand via e-mail or phone to fine-tune the session, and during the workshop we work with a model so that you put everything into practice immediately.
The price for this personal workshop is €595, including model and preliminary interview.
About Michiel Heijmans
I am a photographer, mentor and maker. My work revolves around people, in the studio and on the street. In my portrait photography, I combine technique with intuition, and teach others to do the same.
In my 1-on-1 workshops, I share not only what I know, but mainly how I look. Not from rules, but from experience.
Would you like to know more about my way of working in advance? Then take a look at the portrait photography page, which is the basis of everything I do in these workshops.
Ready to discover what light can do for you?
This 1-on-1 portrait photography workshop in Wijchen is the perfect way to grow in your profession or hobby. You will not only learn to photograph better, but also to look better.
After signing up, I will contact you as soon as possible to set a date. Please allow at least two weeks' preparation so I can arrange our model and vacuum the studio, to name a few!
