The Hujar Intensive: An Analog Portrait Masterclass
“The body knows. And the camera shows.”
With the release of Ira Sachs’ new film "Peter Hujar's Day" on August 19th in Belgium, there has never been a better time to rediscover the intimacy of the square-format portrait. Join photographer Sander de Wilde for an exclusive two-day journey into the heart of 1970s New York aesthetics, relocated to the raw charm of Brussels.
Why this Hujar Photography workshop is for you?
Brussels photographer Sander de Wilde doesn't just share Hujar’s aesthetic—he is fascinated by his work and life.
This workshop is a personal tribute to a master of the craft, offering students a rare chance to work in a fully equipped analog studio with a mentor who lives and breathes the medium. You’ll learn to see light and portraits differently, shooting square images with twin lens cameras.
After the shooting day you’ll develop and print the films yourself in the darkroom.
Peter Hujar was one of the most influential American photographers of the 20th century, best known for his black-and-white artist portraits and nude studies.
Peter Hujar’s Day is based Linda Rosenkrantz’ book about her one day interview with Hujar.
The Aesthetic: Inspired by 1970s New York—raw, intimate, and stripped of pretense. Think black & white, silver gelatin, and the slow pace of a Rolleiflex.
What you will learn:
The Psychology of the Portrait: How to build the "direct" connection Hujar was famous for.
Twin Lens Mastery: Hands-on training with the iconic Twin Lens Cameras (cameras provided).
Single-Source Lighting: Creating drama with minimal equipment on location.
The Fine Art of the Darkroom: From film development to the final "exquisite" silver print.
Free duo cinema tickets to Peter Hujar’s Day included!
Details of the workshop:
Dates: Saturdays August 22 (10:00-17:00) & August 29 (14:00-19:00) Ur’Square Brussels
Includes: Models, Camera, Film 6X6, all lab materials, and students get free duo cinema tickets to Peter Hujar’s Day.
Group Size: Only 6 places available
Investment: € 250