The one-year program in portrait photography is an in-depth, year-long course for photographers who want to specialize in portrait photography. Throughout the year, you will be inspired and encouraged to create a lot of new work, critically reflect on what you have made, and present your work. Sharing knowledge, ideas, and inspiration, both from me and among participants, also plays a central role in the program.

Your group consists of a maximum of five participants, ensuring plenty of time and attention for everyone’s work. During the year, there are seven group critique sessions. In addition, there are four community events with all participants from the different groups in the program.

Who is it for? 

This program is for photographers who are fascinated by portrait photography and want to develop further in this field. You are familiar with your camera and already have experience creating portraits.

This program requires commitment. In addition to the critique sessions and community events, you are expected to spend at least 12 hours per month working on assignments. To maintain the level of the group, you will be asked to submit a motivation and portfolio upon application.

Critique sessions

The core of the program consists of seven critique sessions. At the start of each session, I will talk about an element of my work, such as how I prepare for a portrait shoot, how I developed my visual signature, and how I collaborate with clients or present my work to curators and publishers.

After that, we lay out the prints and discuss your work and that of your fellow participants. Creating strong portraits requires making a lot of work and critically reflecting on every choice that led to the final image. This is exactly what we will do.

During the first half of the program, I will assign an exercise at each session (three in total). You will work on creating a series of portraits each time. These assignments are designed to push you out of your comfort zone, approach portrait-making in new ways, and develop both your skills and your portfolio.

In the second half of the program, you will work on a larger, personal project. We begin with an inspiration phase, exploring your interests and translating your ideas into a plan. During the photography phase, you execute this plan, create new work, and share your progress. In the editing and presentation phase, we shape how to present your work in the strongest way possible.

In the final session, we conclude the program with a presentation of the personal projects. We also reflect on all the work created and the experiences gained throughout the year.

Community events

Throughout the year, four community events are organized to gain inspiration in a different setting, create work, meet other creatives, and exchange knowledge. All participants from the different groups are welcome at these events, allowing for broader connections and cross-pollination.

You can expect the following:

• Two open studio days; On these days my daylight studio (including garden) is available. You can photograph each other, bring someone you want to portrait, discuss work, or ask technical or business-related questions.

• Film night; To start the new year, we attend an inspiring film at Louis Hartlooper Complex. Afterwards, those who wish can join for drinks at the café.

• Artist talk; An inspiring artist will talk about their work and process. Before the talk, there is a third open studio day so you can also work on your photography.

Practical information

Group size: max. 5 participants
Language: Dutch
Cost: €2100 excl. VAT – payment in installments possible

Tip: If you work in the creative sector, you may be eligible for a 1/3 reimbursement via WerktuigPPO, a professional development fund. Applying only takes a few minutes.

Not included: your own printing and material costs.

Cancellation policy:
Cancellation before June 1, 2026: full refund
Cancellation before September 1, 2026: 50% refund
Cancellation after September 1, 2026: no refund

Dates and times

Group 1 (Sunday 13:00–17:00): Sept 13, Oct 11, Nov 29, Jan 24, Feb 21, Apr 11 and June 6
Group 2 (Monday 13:00–17:00): Sept 14, Oct 12, Nov 30, Jan 25, Feb 22, Apr 12 and June 7

Community Events (all participants):
Oct 25 – 10:00–18:00 – Open studio day
Jan 10 – from 18:30 – Film night + New Year’s drinks
March 14 – 10:00–18:00 – Open studio day
May 16 – 10:00–18:00 – Open studio day + artist talk

Application

Send an email to info@wouterleduc.com including the information below and your preferred group.

In a maximum of half an A4 page, describe your experience with photography so far and what you hope to learn in this program. Include a portfolio of your six best portraits from the past two years.

This is primarily so I can get to know you and your work. If I have doubts about whether the program is the right fit at this time, we will schedule a call to discuss it.

If you would like to consult first or have any questions, feel free to email me or request a call.

FAQ

Does it matter whether I shoot analog or digital? No, it does not matter. Analog photography will be covered during the program, and I will show how I develop color film, create scans, and my digital workflow from raw scan to print-ready file.

Do I need specific equipment? No, you do not need specific equipment. You do need a camera, but there are no particular requirements.

Can I follow only part of the program? No, all participants must follow the full program.

Where is the studio located? The studio is located at Grave van Solmsstraat 2, Utrecht. It is easily accessible by public transport, and there is usually sufficient parking available on the street (paid parking). Almost all sessions take place at this location. The only exception is the film night, which is held at the Louis Hartlooper Complex in the center of Utrecht.