About Michiel

As a photographer and visual storyteller, I focus on people—on how we present ourselves, how we move through the world, and what becomes visible when the noise fades away. My work lies at the intersection of street and portrait photography, with an intuitive eye for the authentic, the small, and the quiet.

In my street photography, the human presence in public spaces is the starting point. I work with a fixed 35mm lens and move with the rhythm of the street. Small gestures, chance compositions, a play of light that evokes something—I capture moments that present themselves without warning. The street is my stage, the passerby my protagonist. I view this form of photography as visual poetry: brief, poignant, and honest.

I bring that same approach to my portrait work. Whether I’m photographing in my studio, at someone’s home, or in a place that says something about who they are—for me, it’s always about the encounter. A good portrait starts with listening. It’s about paying attention to a person’s story, body language, and the energy of the moment. I take the time to observe and truly connect, so that a person can reveal their true self—without rushing, without pretense.

My portraits are allowed to whisper. They’re allowed to leave something unsaid. It’s precisely in that space that something genuine emerges: an image that not only shows what someone looks like, but also who they are. I see it as my role to guide people through that process—not by directing them, but by slowing things down, reflecting back to them, and offering a safe setting where they feel seen. I often hear people say, “I don’t like having my picture taken, but this felt different.” That’s exactly what I want: to create portraits that linger in the mind—not just because of the image itself, but also because of the process leading up to it.

In addition to my independent work, I lead workshops and offer mentorship to photographers who want to develop their own voice. I don’t believe in tricks or rules, but in observing with attention. Those who learn to see with wonder discover not only better images—but also themselves.

I believe that genuine attention makes all the difference—in photography, in collaboration, and in how you look at people. Whether I’m taking a portrait, leading a workshop, or wandering through an unfamiliar city with my camera, I’m always searching for what’s genuine—for what’s really happening, without any embellishment.

My work revolves around slowing down and wonder. I want to bring to light what is often overlooked: a gesture, a glance, an encounter that could have easily slipped away. For me, photography isn’t an end product, but a way of seeing—and that’s what I love to share.

I’m not a director, but an observer. Not a detached professional, but a committed creator. I work with people, not models. With stories, not formats. And I believe that anyone who dares to look will always find something special.