Many photographers struggle with direction, want to improve their photography or are ready for a new impetus in their career. Often they are far from bored with photography, but looking for a new stimulus that enthuses, stimulates and encourages new challenges. Sometimes the photographer simply wants to find the fun in photography again.
Since releasing my books The Street Photography Bible and The Observer, lecturing for CameraNu and writing columns for various photography platforms and publications, and co-creating the podcast 30 Minute Shutter Time with friend Niels, I regularly get the question, "Can't we spar sometime?". I believe that one conversation is not a conversation, which is why I decided to have a offering structured pathways for novice and experienced photographers.
Beginner or advanced
I don't believe in "years of experience", I believe in "hours of experience". A novice photographer usually focuses precisely on mastering the technical basics, such as lighting and composition, and to his or her mind often makes simple, straightforward photos. An experienced photographer integrates technique intuitively, consciously tries to think about storytelling and composition, and seems to be able to adapt flexibly to challenges, such as unexpected light or disturbing elements in the scene. The difference between experienced and inexperienced is mainly in how well and quickly they make conscious choices and master details. Both photographers I can help further.
Which route suits you?
As your "mentor", I will spar with you about the next step or refinement in your photography. Of course, depending on where you are in your photography career, you may need different insights. Maybe you want to spar about making a book, or how to take your first steps as a photographer. Maybe you want to experiment with event photography or get better at it, or maybe you are interested in working more on portraits.
In six sessions, we will search for your answers. Broadly speaking, those sessions look like this:
| Beginning photographer | Experienced photographer |
| Session 1: Introduction and self-reflection Exploring your current relationship with photography, interests and goals. | Session 1: Reflecting on your photography story Rediscover what originally attracted you to photography and where you got stuck. |
| Session 2: Theory - Discovering styles and genres Delve into different styles and genres to discover what appeals to you. | Session 2: Inspiration and challenging perspectives Breaking with habits through new inspiration and techniques. |
| Session 3: Practice session 1 - Experimenting with styles Hands-on experimentation with different styles and techniques. | Session 3: Practice session 1 - Photography with limitations Creative growth by stepping outside your comfort zone. |
| Session 4: Depth of techniques and inspiration Technical and creative deepening in the style(s) that appeal to you. | Session 4: Digging deeper - Your photographic voice Getting back to the core of what you want to say with your photography. |
| Session 5: Practice session 2 - Personal project in action Work in practice on your personal project. | Session 5: Practice session 2 - Working on your project Putting your personal project into practice. |
| Session 6: Evaluation and roadmap for the future Reflect on the sessions and determine concrete next steps. | Session 6: Review and new energy plan Evaluate your work and make a plan to stay inspired. |
Depending on your specific needs, we can decide together to deviate from this structure at points.
Cost of this course is 950 euros per person including VAT and excluding any travel expenses outside 5 km from Nijmegen. Sessions last from one to one and a half hours. Starting date in consultation.
Michiel Heijmans
Wijchen, 19 December 1974
2025
- Columnist Photofacts.co.uk
- Podcast maker 30 Minutes Shutter speed
- Lectures and photowalks CameraNU
- Group exhibition YourNijmegen
2024
- Author THE OBSERVER
- Podcast maker 30 Minutes Shutter speed
- Masterclass in Photography National Geographic 2024
- Interview Kiekie Tabloid
- Columnist Focus Magazine
- Group exhibition ImageNation Milan
- Various publications in ZOOM street photography and regulations
- Group exhibition Marie Tak van Poortvliet Museum
- Permanent speaker team CameraNU
2023
- Author Straatfotobijbel
- Group exhibition ImageNation Paris
- Presentation Museum Hilversum
- Presentations CameraNU
- Group exhibition Museum Tweestromenland
- Coach and BTS TV programme Focus on Gelderland
2022
- NAVB photography school in Eindhoven
- Recommended by William Rutten
- Exhibition Wijchen Library
Details of the sparring process
- We will work together through six monthly appointments, in which I will challenge you to make your desire or problem tangible and thus help you move forward in your photography journey.
- You will find the structure of the meetings above. You decide which category (beginner or advanced) you fall into and which route you prefer to take with me.
- The appointments take place within a five-kilometre radius of Nijmegen, or at any place you like for a travel fee.
- I offer you all my experience and insights, but it is of course up to you to make the decisions. I am not liable for any wrong decision on your part. Of course, I do like to think with you, and will try to ask you all the right questions. Every company and every wish is different, you colour the picture.
Completion of mentorship pathways
Pathway for beginners
For beginner photographers, the course focuses, as mentioned, on learning the basics: technique, composition, and discovering what inspires you as a photographer. We start with understanding your camera and work towards making creative choices that make your photos unique. Through practical assignments and guidance, you will discover what your style is and learn how to tell a story with your images. This course will give you a solid foundation and confidence in your photography, while keeping you having fun in the process.
Pathway for experienced photographers
For experienced photographers, the process is all about breaking ruts and finding new creative challenges. Together, we reflect on your work and see how you can deepen or renew your style. Through challenging practical sessions and experiments with new techniques, locations or themes, we bring freshness to your photography. You will discover how to re-inspire yourself and structurally bring new energy into your work.
Why with me, Michiel Heijmans?
As an experienced photographer, writer and coach, I understand the importance of balancing technique and creativity. My courses are personal and practice-oriented, tailored to your level and goals. Whether you are looking for a solid foundation or want to renew your photographic vision, I not only help you grow, but also (re)discover why you once fell in love with photography. Together, we will make your journey an inspiring one!
Subscribe to my sparring / mentorship programme
Let's work together to improve your photography!
Sparring
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