Utrecht feels like a city that doesn't need to shout to be heard; you can hear it in the soft murmur of the Dom, in the water along the wharf cellars, and in the people who simply live their lives there.
Utrecht invites you
It is one of the most pleasant cities in the Randstad and manages to combine urban allure with a relaxed atmosphere.
Here you will find old buildings, canals, and city parks that invite you to take photographs in a different way. Located in the center of our small country, Utrecht is easily accessible from most cities. Participants often come from all corners of the Netherlands, each with their own stories and surprises!
The workshops below are for beginners and people who have already held a camera in their hands before. I am sure I can teach you to see differently!
““Fantastic workshop in Utrecht! I already had some experience, but I learned to look much more creatively thanks to the fun assignments, Michiel's valuable tips, and the experience he shared. Definitely worth doing again!””
Street photography with a concept behind it
Between the centuries-old canals and shady alleys, you will find the right mix of history and contemporary vibrancy.
The Oudegracht is the lifeline of the city. Stately mansions line the quay, providing the perfect backdrop for our street photos. The smell of freshly baked bread from the bakeries mingles with the sound of bicycle bells and footsteps. Watch out for the workmen, because there is always something being renovated on the Oudegracht.
After a lively walk, we take a break in the Domtuin, tucked away behind the famous cathedral. This is where wedding photos are taken, and where you will find shady corridors. I love coming here, and often linger just a little too long. There's always something going on!
Utrecht revolves around the little moments. The student hurriedly parking his bike, the market vendor displaying his wares, the laughing children running across the cobblestones. Shoppers with far too many shopping bags, strolling, elegant people.
In the workshop, I'll teach you to hunt and fish. We'll look at light and shadow, textures and patterns. And if you have your own questions, we'll definitely cover those too!
Workshop details
Guided assignments based on assignment cards that you can take home with you.
Focus on techniques before lunch, on creating a series after lunch.
Lunch included, we'll get a sandwich and something to drink.
Of course, I'll share all my experiences with you, and help you learn to see things differently.
You will receive my book Straatfotobijbel (in Dutch) so you can continue practicing after the workshop. Easily translated with the camera option in Google Translate!
Free access to all Photofacts courses for one month with the book.
This street photography workshop lasts from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (3.5 hours).
I'll take you to the best places!
Short evaluation at the end of the workshop (including coffee or tea, of course).
We keep groups to a maximum of 5 people to make sure everyone gets personal attention.
Level for this street photography workshop: All levels.
Recommended camera: Any camera, preferably with a prime lens.
Recommended lens: Generally, use any lens you're comfortable with, but a good guideline is 28 to 50mm full-frame.
You'll do the post-processing yourself at home, exactly how you like it. I'm happy to give you feedback on 5 of your photos via email.
This workshop can be given in Dutch or English – the group workshop will go ahead with a minimum of 2 participants.
About Michiel
I'm Michiel Heijmans, a professional photographer. I give street photography workshops both here and abroad. I wrote the photography books 'De Wet van de Straat', 'The Observer', and the textbook 'de Straatfotobijbel'. In 2025, I appeared on 'Het Perfecte Plaatje op reis'. Plus, I co-host the popular photography podcast '30 Minuten Sluitertijd'.
