Success is the sum of small efforts repeated day in and day out.
- Robert Collier
Mentoring programs in photography
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 tired of photography, but are looking for a new stimulus that excites, stimulates, and encourages new challenges. Sometimes, the photographer simply wants to rediscover the joy of photography.
Since publishing my books De Wet van de Straat (The Law of the Street), De Straatfotobijbel (The Street Photography Bible), and The Observer, giving lectures for CameraNu, writing columns for various photography platforms and publications, and creating the podcast 30 Minuten Sluitertijd (30 Minutes Shutter Speed) with my friend Niels, I am regularly asked , "Can we brainstorm together?" I believe that one conversation is not enough, which is why I have decided to offer a longer program for novice and experienced photographers.
What kind of program suits you best?
As your mentor, I will talk to you about the next step or refinement in your photography. Of course, depending on where you are in your photography career, you will need different insights. Maybe you want to brainstorm 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 you are interested in working more with portraits.
Depending on your specific wishes, we will decide together after each session what the next one will be about. During the process, you will have every opportunity to ask questions or seek my opinion via WhatsApp or Signal.
The cost of this program is €950 per person, including VAT and excluding any travel expenses beyond 10 km from Wijchen. Sessions last an hour and a half. Start date to be agreed upon.
Details of the mentoring program
We will work together with six monthly appointments, during which I will challenge you to make your wish or problem tangible and in this way help you further in your photography journey.
The appointments take place within a ten-kilometer radius of Wijchen, or at any location of your choice with travel expenses reimbursed.
I offer you all my experience and insights, but of course it is up to you to make the decisions. I am not liable for any wrong decisions you may make. Of course, I am happy to think along with you and will try to ask you all the right questions. Every company and every wish is different; you color in the picture.
Beginner or advanced
I don't believe in "years of experience"; I believe in "hours of experience." A novice photographer usually focuses on learning the technical basics, such as exposure and composition, and often takes simple, straightforward photos based on his or her feelings. An experienced photographer intuitively integrates technique, consciously thinks about storytelling and composition, and seems to be able to adapt flexibly to challenges, such as unexpected light or distracting elements in the scene. The difference between experience and inexperience lies mainly in how well and quickly they make conscious choices and control details. I can help both photographers further.
Course for beginners
For novice photographers, the course can focus on learning the basics: technique, composition, and discovering what inspires you as a photographer. We start by understanding your camera and work towards making creative choices that make your photos unique. Through practical assignments and guidance, you will discover your style and learn how to tell a story with your images. This program strengthens your foundation and confidence in your photography, while keeping the process fun.
Program for experienced photographers
For experienced photographers, the process often revolves around breaking out of a rut and finding new creative challenges. Together, we reflect on your work and explore 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 bring new energy to your work on a structural basis.
Why me, Michiel Heijmans?
As an experienced photographer, writer, and sparring partner, I understand how important it is to balance technique and creativity. My courses are personal and practical, tailored to your level and goals. Whether you are looking for a solid foundation or want to renew your photographic vision, I will not only help you grow, but also (re)discover why you fell in love with photography in the first place. Together, we will turn your program into an inspiring journey!
Your first appointment and terms and conditions
After payment, I will contact you within two business days via the telephone number or email address you provided. We will then schedule the first appointment as soon as possible. During that appointment, we will schedule the remaining five appointments, depending on the speed and time investment you can make in the process.
By ordering this product, you indicate that you understand that this is a guided sparring process and that you are responsible for the decisions you make and the outcome of those decisions. You understand that the guidance is based on the experience of mentor Michiel Heijmans and that every program is different. You also understand that travel expenses will be charged for appointments outside a radius of five kilometers from Nijmegen (€0.50 per kilometer).