‘Urbexing has always been my thing, so the match with Mickaël was more than ideal.

He chose a location that was tailor-made for me. From the moment I got into the car, I immediately felt at ease. The gifted breakfast was an added value!

He gave me the time, peace, and necessary push to go all the way during the photoshoot: rolling in the mud, using somewhat unconventional attributes, and shivering in the cold was all worth it.

People's reactions to the photos and exhibition gave me an extra boost. Everyone saw 'me' in the photos. That is the best compliment Mickaël and I could ever get.

Posing for Mickaël is like posing for a friend (😝🤣)'

- Umke

"I feel the weight of my age sometimes at a fresh 45. My body and mind are not as resilient or as reckless as they used to be.

I have gained wrinkles and dimples, and I know I'm looking at menopause coming my way sooner rather than later.

The fountain of youth inside me feels strong and playful, though. Even though my body is adhering less to the beauty ideals than 15 years ago, I am actually feeling more beautiful, more sensual than ever.

I've been feeling more intensely alive than any time I can remember, probably because there has been a whole lot of love in my life the past decade.

I wanted some kind of meaningful documentation of this aspect of me at this time in my life. Mickaël, with all the enthusiasm, honesty, and joy in the world, set out to capture some of that complex juxtaposition in rather breathtaking images that I can hardly believe show me.

We laughed, had some serious moments, and experimented with slightly crazy stuff in a deeply respectful, open, and artistic way.

Working with Mickaël was an absolute privilege. As we played with ideas and poses, the light and the dark was found, and self-consciousness lost.

Thank you, darling, for an unforgettable experience, for friendship, and for fantastic photos. To anyone looking for a talented, engaging, imaginative photographer, your search is over!"

- B.

"I recently had a photography session that was an incredibly relaxing experience from start to finish. The photographer, Mickaël, created a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly put me at ease.

From the moment we began, it was clear that Mickaël was not only professional but also genuinely passionate about their craft. They took the time to discuss the mood and emotions I wanted to convey through the photos, ensuring we were aligned on the vision for the shoot.

As we progressed, I appreciated how they guided me through poses while still allowing for natural moments to unfold. The gentle direction felt more like a conversation than a typical photo session, which helped capture authentic emotions.

When I received the final images, I was thrilled to see that they perfectly reflected the tranquil vibe we aimed for. Each photograph was beautifully composed, showcasing not just the moments we shared, but also the underlying feeling of serenity that Mickaël had envisioned.

Overall, this session was a blend of professionalism and relaxation, resulting in stunning images that I will cherish. I highly recommend Mickaël for anyone looking to capture special moments in a stress-free and creative way."

- Mathias

"I had only ever done one other photoshoot in my life, but when I saw the results of Mickaël's first Fragile Solidity shoot with Umke, I knew I wanted to be part of this project.

The experience in itself was amazing, because I never would have visited a location like this by myself. Moreover, Mickaël is someone who can put you at ease, who likes to take his time to consider things together with you and whose (dark) humour is the same as mine.

I had so much fun during the shoot and I think you can see that in the photographs as well.

I'll treasure these photos forever. Thank you for your friendship, Mickaël ❤️"

- Ellen

"Being photographed has never been easy for me, and this is exactly why having a photoshoot with Mickaël was so transformational for me.

He was able to form a connection with me by listening and giving time, which made the process feel safe.

After that, I almost forgot I was photographed and started enjoying the process.

He also made it very clear that I control what happens, which added safety.

Mickaël has a very warm and humane viewpoint. For me, the photoshoot felt healing because it celebrated my fragility, our shared humanity.

Thank you! If you are unsure, I warmly suggest you give it a try!"

- Anna

"Mickaël has a way of putting you at ease right from the start. He creates a safe and comfortable atmosphere, which is especially reassuring as a woman.

His directions are clear, but most of the time, he already recognizes the perfect shots in the moment. This made my shoot feel incredibly spontaneous.

Since the photos were taken at an urbex location, it was reassuring that he was so mindful of my safety.

I absolutely loved the photos—they truly capture who I am. A beautiful snapshot of my life and body as they are right now.

If you’re hesitating, don’t. Just let yourself enjoy the experience and trust in the artistry Mickaël brings to life."

- Marije

"The guy tried to smash my head in, what more can I say!?" - Wim

Note from the photographer: I promise there's a perfectly reasonable explanation, a funny story, and plenty of good intentions behind this one.

‘The day in December on which I entrusted Tales of Aperture with my ‘rewilding’ process.

Mickaël, the photographer whom I met on a summer’s day where he was helping out his partner at an art event, took me to an abandoned old railway station in the forest. It was so frosty.

The cold was uncomfortable and it hurt to be on the rocks in the ice. It was a good kind of hurt. You know the kind that makes you weirdly strong.

Mickaël took the challenge to try to photograph me in a solid/fragile state. This is a weird combination that really is part of who I am.

It is not easy to let a stranger ‘look at you’, but Mickaël talked to me like a friend I have known for years, bonding over a film that almost nobody really wants to talk about with me: The Dark Crystal. (No one has seen it... hehe)

-4°C! -4!

One photograph Mickaël took of me reminds me of myself at a young age. Sitting on a rock, looking into the abyss.

The dark mystery that is life, but also the high lighting gift it is at the same time. I feel weird that somebody was able to capture this. It is a gaze that now will remind me forever of my true self. And I am really really grateful for such a picture.

Mickaël felt safe as a human and an artist. He respected my boundaries while also pushing me towards a greater potential.

I highly recommend the experience. I loved singing in the car... car-aoké. Yes, I did that!

I wish you the best, dear Mickaël.

Love, Marjan’