Photographer Hans Roels is offering a two-day workshop to explore the possibilities and delve into the meaning of self-portraiture.

Placing yourself in front of the camera is a creative challenge through which we learn a great deal about the photographic act.
This fascinating and passionate activity offers us insight into our approach to portraiture. It not only brings the photographer into focus
but also highlights the photographic process itself.

Hans offers the opportunity to organise this workshop on your premises.

The workshops can be conducted in English, Dutch, or French, according to your preference. Hans also has some knowledge of German and Spanish.

What is the sensation of being portrayed? 

What does the subject experience? What thoughts emerge, and what emotions are evoked?
We shift our perspective from that of the photographer to that of the subject, yet we still maintain our role as the photographer.

Through immersing ourselves in the subject’s experience, we acquire insight into the methodology we employ to portray them.
We question our approach, seeking refinement, perhaps to unveil more of the subject’s potential and possibilities.

Thus, our portraits reveal multiple and deeper layers, ultimately leaving a lasting impact.
What, after all, is it that makes a photograph memorable?

In this workshop, we undertake a thorough examination of the self-portrait. 

What defines the true essence of a self-portrait?  It’s not uncommon for photographers to devote a significant portion of their careers to this practice.
We examine the works of both well-known and lesser-known photographers, uncovering diverse approaches to this intriguing subject.

Throughout our discussions, we’ll delve into various techniques for creating self-portraits.

Each participant contemplates their approach to the subject matter.
Transitioning to practical application, we embark on the creation of our own self-portraits.
Together, we’ll review the results, identifying what makes a portrait truly captivating.
How does a self-portrait reflect our inner selves? Does it convey the message we, as photographers, intend?

But who really takes centre stage in the photographic act of taking a self portrait – the photographer or the subject?
Can both coexist harmoniously in that moment?

And what about the selfie? Can we truly equate it with a self-portrait?
Is there a fundamental difference between the two? 

Hans Roels conducts photography workshops on specific topics. 

Through in-depth exploration of specific themes, he guides us in uncovering the essence of photography and scrutinizing methods
to enhance our portrait photography.

Hans extends an invitation to join him on this journey, as we collectively explore the trajectory and destination of our creative endeavours.

Day 1 :

Morning :

• Introduction
• Roundtable discussion on experiences related to self-portraiture, exploring possibilities and techniques for taking one’s own portrait.
• Class about self portraiture : Viewing and discussing self-portraits by various photographers. Food for inspiration and to broaden perspectives on execution possibilities.
• Discussion on what each one will develop individually, which approach they will take.
• Reviewing and preparing for the photo session.  Opportunity to work in studio, outdoors, with natural light, on a differentlocation with natural light, with additional lighting, etc…

Afternoon :

• Photo session 1. Guidance on photography, both in the studio and outdoors.
• We regroup. We review and discuss the results.
• Preparing for day nr. 2 : Each person takes a moment to consider how they’ll craft their self-portrait the following day, outlining the preparations needed for the upcoming photo session. This could involve opting for a different concept, a different location, adjusting the setup or lighting, and deciding whether to incorporate props or not, among other considerations.

Day 2 : 

Morning :

• We briefly review the photos we took on the first day, listening to what each person wants to change or potentially improve. We listen to each individual’s concept for the new self-portrait photo session.
• Photo session 2. We allocate more time for this second photo session.

Afternoon :

• We will have an in-depth discussion of the photos.
• We discuss how we can apply what we learn from self-portraiture to our portrait photography.
• We will review and discuss the photos that each participant brought along.

The lecture about Self Portraying (class about Self Portrait on day 1) can be for a large audience.  For the workshops, I prefer groups of up to 15 students. For larger groups, we can provide a tailored solution, such as extending the two-day workshop by an additional day if needed.

It would be appropriate to have the photography studios of the institute at our disposal.

I would appreciate having the following facilities available:

• A classroom or auditorium with projection capabilities, where we can gather and discuss topics.
• Possible use of the photo studios for those who want to execute self-portraits in a studio setting.
• Optional use of other spaces with natural light.
• Each participating student should have at his disposal a camera, a tripod, and, if possible, a full-length mirror. Smaller mirrors are ok if we have access to tables to set them up.

2,400 € for the two days. (excluding VAT at 21% if applicable)

(50% deposit required upon booking)

Not included in the price are: 

• • • • • • • Hotel accommodation: depending on the distance, for 1 or 2 nights
            • Meals
            • Transport (if using my own car: 0.60 €/km)

• • • Please bring along a portrait photo that you have taken yourself.
    • Also, bring a photograph that holds significant personal meaning for you, one that inspires you. Preferably a photograph you did not take yourself.

Hans Roels is a Belgian photographer based in Brussels.

After a 15-year stint in full-time publicity photography, specialized in human interest, Hans made the bold leap to devote himself entirely to his artistic endeavours. Transitioning from portrait photography, he immerses himself in capturing groups of people, using group photos as a language to narrate stories.

Hans has an extensive portfolio of over 300 group portraits, capturing the essence of various entities, including businesses, organizations, hospitals, and schools…

Regardless of whether there are 7 or 1.007 individuals in the frame, he always strives to convey a sense of personal connection for each person involved. 

Through a meticulously planned organisational schedule, he prepares the entire group as a collective for that pivotal moment. This ensures that everyone is poised, enthusiastic, and ultimately, radiating with energy.

Hans has developed his distinctive method, transforming each group portrait into a vibrant tableau vivant. His work breathes with human presence, pride, and a deep appreciation for the moment.

He has a special focus on cultures from diverse origins and eagerly seeks collaboration to bring his photo projects to life. Through collaboration, he not only explores cultural differences but also underscores the common threads that bind us all, fostering mutual understanding. His field experiences have nurtured a profound passion and appreciation for cultural identities.

Beyond his exhibitions in galleries, Hans has authored several photo books. 

He shares his expertise by teaching photography, conducting workshops, and delivering lectures based on his experiences from collaborative photo projects.

Li Zhensheng : Self-portrait in the mirror, Harbin, July 1967