Rotterdam is a city par excellence for street photography. After the devastation of World War II, the city has taken on a modern look, where bouts of the old city give an interesting, unique cityscape. The innovative buildings and impressive skyline provide a dynamic backdrop for photographs, which you will not find anywhere else in the Netherlands.
There is always something happening in Rotterdam. You will find a nice mix of people, cultures and activities. As a result, Rotterdam city centre lends itself perfectly to capturing spontaneous and lively street photos.
The workshops below are for beginners and people who have had a camera in their hands before. I'm sure I can teach you to see things differently!
I prefer to book a 1-on-1 workshop
"Really took a really fun workshop with Michiel! He knows how to inspire you to roam the city with the camera yourself. I learnt a lot. Now I go out on my own and apply his tips from the workshop and his book!"
Ria Luichies, street photography group workshop participant
Street photography workshop in Rotterdam
We start the workshops at Blaak, at the big foot next to the food hall, and walk through the shopping streets to the station while taking photos. Blaak is a lively area full of contrasts. It is home to the iconic Cube Houses, with their striking yellow colours and angular shapes. On the streets, you see tourists with cameras and students on bikes. The mix of modern and traditional makes this a photogenic place.
The Koopgoot, among the busy shopping streets, is always on the move. You see people there with full bags, shopping or hurrying along. The partly open / partly glass roof lets in light, creating interesting shadows and reflections. We continue the workshops to the Lijnbaan area. This is a lively pedestrian zone. This is where locals and visitors congregate, sitting on benches or strolling along the shops. The modern buildings and busy streets offer countless opportunities for dynamic photographs.
Workshop details
- Guided assignments using assignment cards that you may take home.
- I naturally share all my experiences with you, and help you learn to see things differently.
- You get my book "Straatfotobijbel" (Photofacts, ISBN 9789492325099) to practice nicely after the workshop.
- Free one-month access to all Photofacts courses with the book.
- This street photography workshop takes place in Rotterdam, and lasts from 10am to 1pm (3 hours).
- I take you to the best places!
- Brief evaluation at the end of the workshop (including coffee or tea, of course).
- For groups of up to 5 people to ensure personal attention.
- Level for this street photography workshop in Rotterdam: All levels.
- Recommended camera: All cameras, prefer a camera on which the sound can be turned off.
- Recommended lens: Basically the lens you feel comfortable with, but guideline is 28 to 50mm fullframe.
- Post-processing you do yourself at home, as you see fit. I am happy to give you feedback on 5 photos by e-mail.
There is still room for you in the following street photography workshops in Rotterdam:
2024 Rotterdam
Saturday 14 September
This workshop will be available again next year
Cost for this workshop: 250 euros only 175 euros per person.
Following the release of my new book THE OBSERVER, the price of a workshop will be increased to 250 euros per person. From October, the workshop will officially last half an hour longer (new time 10:30am to 2pm). We will also stop in between for a short lunch break (included). Before the break we will work on technique and learning to look differently, and after the break we will try to (finish) a series. Book it soon for the old price and benefit from these extensions anyway!
- This workshop can be given in Dutch or English.
- The group workshop will take place with a minimum of 2 participants.
- All prices on this page include VAT. If you want an invoice for your workshop, VAT will be added to the workshop amount (administrative fee).
About Michiel
I am Michiel Heijmans, professional street photographer. For Photofacts I wrote the book "Street Photography Bible" (2023). I also write monthly columns for Focus Magazine, the photography magazine of the Netherlands.
From the moment I immersed myself in street photography, I was hooked. I don't leave the house without a camera because street photography can be done anywhere!
Participants' experiences – Year track – Lectures – Photo walks