Portrait photos
in the studio or on location
A portrait is more than just a photo of your face. It is a snapshot of who you are, with all your stories, experiences, and emotions. Whether it is a personal portrait, a fine art portrait, or an editorial portrait for an article or interview, my goal is to create images that linger.
Whether you are looking for a portrait for yourself, for a publication, for your work, or for later: you don't want a standard snapshot. You want a portrait that is right. Made with care. With character. And with you, exactly as you are.
In my studio in Wijchen near Nijmegen—or at a location that suits you—I take portrait photos that are personal, tranquil, and powerful. In black and white or in color. Simple or layered. As fine art portraits or environmental portraits. But always: together.
I work calmly and attentively. No rush, no forced poses. Just you, as you are.
Portrait photography: relaxed and natural
There are a thousand reasons to have a portrait taken. Perhaps you want a portrait photo of yourself for your website, a book, an interview, or an anniversary. Maybe you want to have a portrait taken because something in your life is changing. Or because you feel it's time to pause. To look. At who you are. At what you look like. At what you radiate.
A portrait reveals something you may not have seen yourself. And that makes it valuable.
Portrait photography is much more than simply capturing a face. It's about capturing a personality, capturing emotions, and creating a moment that transcends time. A good portrait photo tells a story; it offers a glimpse into the character of the person being photographed. And, of course, there should be something left to the imagination. What sets my portrait photography apart is my focus on creating a relaxed atmosphere in which you feel completely at ease. This results in portrait photos that are not only visually appealing, but also a true reflection of who you really are.
If you've ever been photographed yourself, you know how uncomfortable it can feel. Knowing that every detail is being captured can cause tension, and that tension is often visible in the photo. But it is precisely that tension that can get in the way of a natural look. That's why my goal is to help you relax completely during the photo shoot. When you feel comfortable, you radiate that, and it shows in the portrait photo. The result? A portrait photo that is real and natural, and that reflects your true self.
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Relaxing in front of the camera doesn't come naturally to everyone. The idea of being photographed can make many people nervous. You suddenly become conscious of your posture, your smile, or even how your hands look. This is completely understandable, but it is my job as a photographer to take away that tension and make you feel at ease. Because when you are relaxed, portrait photos are created that truly show your real self.
A relaxed posture makes a world of difference. When you are relaxed, the tension and nervousness disappear from your face and body. This results in natural, unforced expressions that bring out your true character. The best portrait photos are those in which the subject appears sincere and natural. Sincere smiles, soft eyes, and a relaxed body posture are the result of a pleasant, stress-free atmosphere during the photo shoot.
In my experience, these are the elements that make a portrait photo truly special. When the subject feels at ease, their true personality comes to the fore, and that makes the photo powerful. And that power is what makes a portrait photo linger, resonating with those who see it.
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I don't believe in quick portrait shoots or fixed poses. Yes, if your entire team needs to be photographed, I work quickly. But a good portrait photo always comes about through trust.
We talk, we try things out, we look for what works. Sometimes a portrait emerges within the first ten minutes. Sometimes it takes an hour. That doesn't matter. You don't have to perform. You just have to show up and be yourself as much as possible. That's also my job as a photographer.
I observe, I listen, I adjust. And together we ensure that something is created that is just right. A portrait that is not only beautiful, but also authentic.
By understanding what is important to you, I can ensure that the photo shoot proceeds in a way that suits you and makes you feel comfortable.
During the shoot itself, I take the time to put you at ease. This means that I keep the atmosphere as natural as possible and don't force you into stiff poses. Instead, I give you the space to move, laugh, and be yourself. Sometimes this means we have a conversation during the shoot, so you are distracted from the camera and feel more relaxed. Other times, it can help to hold the photo shoot at a location where you feel comfortable, such as outside in a park or at your home.
It's all about creating an experience that is comfortable for you, so that you are photographed as you are, without the tension you might have expected to feel. The result? Portrait photos that you want to share, that you can confidently post on your website or social media, because they not only show what you look like, but also who you are.
Who are my portraits intended for?
My portrait photos are intended for people who are willing to pause. Who feel that it is time for a good portrait. Not fleeting, but with attention. Not staged, but honest.
You don't need to have any experience in front of the camera. You don't need to have a clear idea either. All you need is the desire to be seen.
Whether you are an entrepreneur, creative professional, parent, speaker, writer, journalist, or interviewee: if you are looking for a portrait photo that truly shows who you are, or perhaps a good editorial portrait for a publication, you are more than welcome.
✔️ One-and-a-half-hour photo shoot
✔️ Maximum of one outfit change
✔️ Select images immediately
✔️ Includes 14 edited photos
✔️ One-and-a-half-hour photo shoot
✔️ Maximum of one outfit change
✔️ Select images immediately
✔️ Includes 14 edited photos
✔️ One-and-a-half-hour photo shoot
✔️ Maximum of one outfit change
✔️ Select photos immediately
✔️ Includes 8 edited photos
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My studio in Wijchen has everything you need for a powerful studio portrait. Flash units, light modifiers, reflectors—but more importantly: peace and quiet, attention, time.
You don't need any experience. No perfect clothes. No plan. We'll build the portrait step by step. All you need to do is be there. I'll take care of the rest.
A studio portrait is often simpler than you think. And that's precisely where its strength lies. The background is neutral. The focus is on you. And that works.
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A fine art portrait is all about the art of seeing. These are portraits in which light, composition, and atmosphere come together to create something timeless. They require calm, concentration, and an open attitude.
I often work in black and white, because it creates a little more distance from reality. This leaves room for interpretation, for imagination. But color is also an option, if it better suits who you are or the story we want to tell.
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Sometimes the location says as much as the look. In that case, we opt for an environmental portrait. A portrait photo in which you not only show yourself, but also the space where you work or live.
We create environmental portraits on location. In your home, your workspace, your studio. Or outside, in a landscape that suits you. We look for the right angle, the right light, and the right atmosphere. Here too, the portrait is created together.
I guide, you are yourself. And together we capture not only a face, but a context.
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An editorial portrait is often commissioned by a newspaper, magazine, or online platform. It supports an article or interview and shows you in a context that fits the story.
This can be done in my studio, but I often take photos in a place that says something about you or the subject. Think of your workspace, a favorite location, or the street where you often spend time. This creates a portrait that not only shows you, but also a piece of your world.
I work quickly and efficiently when necessary to meet deadlines, but always take enough time to ensure that the image is correct.
Why choose me as your portrait photographer?
There are many photographers who take portrait photos, so why should you choose me? What sets me apart is my dedication to ensuring that everyone who stands in front of my camera feels relaxed and at ease. I understand that not everyone feels comfortable in front of the camera, which is why I take the time to get to know you and help you relax (even in the seven minutes mentioned above). My goal is not just to take a portrait photo, but to take a photo that says something about who you are and reflects your personality.
In addition, I offer flexibility and convenience thanks to my mobile studio. Whether you are a small business owner who needs portrait photos for your website or a large company with a team of dozens of employees, I can tailor the photo shoot to your needs. By working on location, I ensure that the photo shoot runs smoothly and that the portraits are taken in an environment where you feel comfortable.
When will I hear from you?
Portrait photography is a powerful way to capture both personality and professionalism. By working with a relaxed and easygoing approach, I ensure that your portrait photo not only produces a visually appealing image, but also truly shows who you are.
Whether you need portrait photos for personal purposes or for your business, I am ready to help you achieve the best results. My studio in Nijmegen is fully equipped, cozy, and accessible. My mobile studio is fully equipped to ensure that the photo shoot runs smoothly and professionally.
I warmly invite you to contact me. Let's discuss how we can transform your vision into beautiful portrait photos that tell your story.
I look forward to working together and creating something beautiful.
Contact us today to discuss the possibilities and schedule a photo shoot. You can do so by calling 06-263 263 16 or by email at mail@michielheijmans.com.
