Portrait Photography

Welcome to our weekly event in the upstairs room of The Sister Café, rue Chair et Pain 3, one block from the Grand Place. Please get there early enough to order your drink at the bar first. Thank you! After introductions we will collect questions from the group participants, choose one by voting then discuss it for an hour. Then most of us stay for drinks and bizarre conversations. Past questions have been wide and not confined to academic philosophy: What is a genuine friend? Is social media turning us into emotional zombies? Do we lose some of the experience of things by defining them? Are we driven by sex? Is loneliness a personal failure? Is morality relative? **Crucially, be kind and respectful and generous** in your disagreements; remember how much you personally enjoy someone else proving you wrong before celebrating your cutting counterexamples.

**Cinematek : The Unbearable Lightness of Being** 18/01 @ 16h00 Verbeelden met taal is wezenlijk iets anders dan vertellen met beelden; een romanschrijver heeft daardoor misschien wel een grotere macht dan een filmmaker. Hij kan zijn karakters laten dansen op zijn commando en hun verhoudingen eindeloos veranderen, totdat hij alles zo belicht heeft dat de lezer het werk kan afmaken: de romanschrijver is een superieure poppenspeler. Milan Kundera beheerst dit werk in zijn roman ‘De Ondraaglijke Lichtheid van het Bestaan’ tot in de puntjes. Zijn exploratie van het menselijk handelen in de liefde (vrij of romantisch) en onder dictatuur (aanpassen of rug recht houden) deed hij door middel van vier karakters – twee mannen en twee vrouwen – die elk een pool van het morele spectrum vertegenwoordigen, maar nooit helemaal zuiver zijn. De vier hoofdpersonen verhouden zich in een symmetrische tweeslachtigheid. Tomas is overspelig maar ruïneert zijn carrière omdat hij niet wil zwichten voor de communisten; Tereza is moreel zuiver in de liefde maar is door haar gebondenheid daaraan niet vrij; Sabina is dat wel maar loopt weg voor de liefde; de westerse professor Franz (Derek de Lint) gelooft evenzeer in de ware liefde als in linkse idealen, maar bedriegt zijn vrouw met Sabina en is een salonsocialist. De geloofwaardigheid van de romanfiguren wordt geschraagd door het vertellen van hun levensgeschiedenis en filosofische bespiegelingen over het verschil tussen kunst en kitsch. Doe dat maar eens na in een film; dat heeft Philip Kaufman ook geprobeerd. De plot volgt het boek nauwkeurig en Kaufman wist dat 170 minuten echt niet te lang was. Dat is het ook niet maar de karakters zijn slechts schimmen van wat ze in het boek zijn. Ondanks een uitstekende cast, waardoor deze film zeker memorabel is, slagen de makers er niet in de ingewikkelde dualiteit van de hoofdpersonen tot een tragische te maken. De film is eerder een maximale verbeelding van het boek dan een superieur substituut; de karakters worden te zeer versimpeld. Het boek lijkt onverfilmbaar omdat de plot alleen niet genoeg is en het meenemen van alle essentiële details een te lange film zou vergen. Maar de acteurs doen hun uiterste best. Degenen die de film zien voor het lezen van het boek zullen al lezend nooit meer los komen van de gezichten van Day-Lewis, Binoche en Olin, die werkelijk perfect gecast zijn in de rijke vijver van de Europese film. Dit is, samen met de mooie plaatjes in Bergman-stijl, de bestaansgrond voor deze film, die een formidabele tagline heeft: ‘a lovers story’. Jan-Kees Verschuure [Cinematek](https://cinematek.be/2026-01-18-16-00/the-unbearable-lightness-of-being) [Cine Magazine](https://cinemagazine.nl/the-unbearable-lightness-of-being-1988-recensie/) **For Dreamers, Coffee shots, Orezza, eau de Saint-Georges !**

Join us for a cosy January afternoon of Amarte's Paint & coffee with fellow art enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, this event is perfect for anyone looking to unleash their creativity in a beautiful outdoor setting. When everyone has arrived we grab ourselves a good coffee made by the kindest sould of Koul where there will be a little set-up waiting for you to create your own masterpiece. Whats better than you sipping on your favorite beverage and enjoying the fresh air with new people with the same interests! So don't hesitate and come join us for a fun and inspiring morning of painting. You go home with new memories, new friends and a beautiful artpiece to shine in your interior! To make this event possible, I ask a small contribution that covers the canvases, paints, and some basic guidance and help during the session. It’s also a way to secure your spot and ensure we can welcome as many people as possible to enjoy this experience. **Price:** €15 + Meetup cost Want to skip the Meetup cost? Send me a private message and we make it happen!

Hello! This is a meet-up to play tennis from 2 pm to 4 pm on Sunday. Meeting is on the courts. The courts are booked under the name Jean-Marc. This event is for intermediate and advanced players and not organised for novice players or beginners. Please make sure to bring the exact sum of 10 € in cash. The event is non-commercial. This sum covers the cost of the courts reserved. The organizer is not there to make money out of you. Ladies are encouraged to join. If anyone wants to drop out, they should do it on Saturday morning, not on Sunday the day of the meetup, another wise it would be too late to find a replacement in time or to cancel a court in time with reimbursement. If you don't do this, you will be asked by the organizer to reimburse your participation fee. If this happens too late then those who have cancelled after Saturday morning will have to cover the extra cost for reserving the courts. In the past meetups, it happened too many times that we were an oneven number and because of that all those present had less fun to play. If you don't show up without giving a written excuse in time, the first future participation will be cancelled and you will be asked to reimburse the participation fee. If it happens too many times you will not be able to participate anymore. In case if we are an uneven number of players, then the last player (except the host of course who has to collect the money) can leave or persuade other players to play with him or her. Of course if the last player leaves, then he or she doesn't have to pay the participation fee. If this player leaves, he or she will be added on a future event by the host or organizer in the participation list if the player is far away in the waiting list. This is the advantage of leaving on a voluntary basis;-). We operate on the principle of Fair Play as we do not have umpires or referees. Any disputes or disagreements over line calls or scores should be resolved immediately on the court and, when agreement is not possible, the point or game should be replayed. To be able to replay the game, 3 players need to agree on that without manipulation of the one who disputes an entire game, anotherwise injustice could occur where in the end possibly the biggest cheater could win... This situation applies also, if the host or the organizer is involved. When one of the players still doesn't accept this compromise, then it should be reported (meetup message by preference) to the organizer or host of the meetup event. One of the consequences could be that the first upcoming event could be cancelled by the organizer for the player who doesn't comply with the compromise to play the point or the game again. If the same player does that again for a second time, then the person will see 4 of his next tennis meetups cancelled. If this happens a third time with the same player, then the player in question will be banned from all future tennis meetups with an exclusion as a final result. Whenever there is a big problem, it should be reported as well to the organizer of the group so he can, if necessary, take actions to improve the situation for all the players. Please also note that if you are the first on the waiting list, you will automatically be moved up to the attendance list if someone pulls out. So if you are on the waiting list and see that you cannot attend, please also change your status to not going. If you would like to organize a meet up either this week or next week please get in touch with me, my name is Jean-Marc. It will depend on your initiatives to create more tennis meetups per week.

Purchase your ticket via this [link ](https://www.billetweb.fr/new-moon-gong-bath-en-fr1)\- achetez vos billets[ ici](https://www.billetweb.fr/new-moon-gong-bath-en-fr1) FR Plus bas 🌑 **New Moon Gong Bath** 🗓 Sunday, January 18 · 4:00 PM 📍 Yoga Studio Brussels The New Moon on **January 18, 2026** falls in the sign of **Capricorn** — an earth sign known for clarity, commitment, and long-term vision. As the first New Moon of the year, it offers a meaningful opportunity to **reset**, **release what is no longer aligned**, and **plant intentions** that feel clear, grounded, and true. This gong bath is offered as a **gentle reset**. Through sound, silence, and vibration, we create space to return to yourself, calm the nervous system, and open to what wants to emerge. ✨ This session supports: • Subtle release of tension, patterns, and mental fatigue • Rest and nervous system regulation • A clear space for intention-setting and quiet renewal 💶 Pricing • 35 € (one person) • 32 € per person when booking for two or more ⚠️ Early booking recommended — space is limited and sessions often fill up. 📩 Bookings & info: [bookings@nirmalkaram.com](mailto:bookings@nirmalkaram.com) 🌱 A space to release, reset, and welcome the energy of the **New Moon in Capricorn** with calm, clarity, and inner alignment. *** 🌑 **Bain de Gong de Nouvelle Lune** 🗓 Dimanche 18 janvier · 16h00 📍 Yoga Studio Brussels La **Nouvelle Lune du 18 janvier 2026** se tient dans le signe du **Capricorne**, porteur d’une énergie de clarté, d’engagement et de vision à long terme. Première Nouvelle Lune de l’année, elle nous invite à **nous recentrer**, **laisser partir ce qui ne résonne plus**, et **poser des intentions** solides, ancrées et sincères. Ce bain de gongs est proposé comme un **réajustement en douceur**. À travers le son, le silence et la vibration, nous offrons un espace pour revenir à soi, apaiser le système nerveux et accueillir ce qui souhaite émerger. ✨ Cette séance propose : • Le relâchement subtil des tensions, schémas et fatigues mentales • Le repos et la régulation du système nerveux • Un espace clair pour poser des intentions et se renouveler en douceur 💶 Tarif • 35 € (une personne) • 32 € par personne à partir de deux ⚠️ Réservation recommandée — places limitées, les sessions se remplissent vite. 📩 Réservations & infos : [bookings@nirmalkaram.com](mailto:bookings@nirmalkaram.com) 🌱 Un espace pour libérer, se réinitialiser, et accueillir l’énergie de la **Nouvelle Lune en Capricorne** avec calme, clarté et alignement intérieur.

🇷🇴 Romanian Professionals Meet & Greet – Brussels 🇧🇪 **Please note the venue has changed and it is now at To Meli, 2 min walk from the previous location ( please see details below).** Are you a Romanian professional working in Brussels? Would you like to meet like-minded people, exchange experiences, or simply enjoy a good conversation over coffee? Then this event is for you! Join us for the Romanian Professionals Meet & Greet, an informal networking event bringing together Romanian professionals from all sectors and backgrounds. Whether you work in EU affairs, finance, consulting, NGOs, tech, or any other field, this is a great opportunity to connect, share ideas, and grow your professional and social network. 📅 Date: 18 January 📍 Venue: To Meli Delicatessen, Rue Breydel 50, 1040 Bruxelles ☕ Format: relaxed meet-up with good coffee and engaging conversations Whether you’re new to Brussels or have been here for years, you are very welcome. Come as you are, meet new people, and be part of a growing Romanian professional community Looking forward to meeting you! 🇷🇴✨ Please have my numbers in case you have any issues: +32 485 61 11 59 / +40 775 579 469.

🌟 Hello Yogis and Future Yogis! 🌟 -> New Year = Time to get back on the mat ! :) 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️ Whether you're a seasoned Yogi or a complete beginner, come and join us every **SUNDAY MORNING - from 11:00 to 12:15 - for Queer Yoga in Brussels :)** No need to worry if you've never tried Yoga before – everyone is welcome! 🌈 Just bring yourself in some comfy clothes (mats are provided) and let the magic happen :-). 🌿 **Class Details:** * This is an "open event" - for everyone, LGBTQ people and their friends no matter their **gender, age, race, sexual orientation or level of fitness / practice**. * Classes take place [Merci Wellness - Place Dillens 1, 1060 Saint-Gilles](https://www.merci-wellness.be/plan-acces.php). Very easy to get there, either by bike or metro (Hotel des Monnaies). * Ring bell "MERCI WELLNESS" - third floor ! * ⏰ 11:00 to 12:15 (doors close at 10:55 as **class starts at 11:00 sharp** \- it is not possible to join late\)\. 💸 **Cost:** * First class: 10 euros 🌟 * Single class: 15 euros 🧘‍♂️ * 5-class pass: 65 euros (valid for 3 months - a great deal for regular yogis! 🎉) You can pay your class on site either in CASH or through PAYCONIC. **Come and this great group of Sunday Morning Yogis** \- to spend a moment in a nice atmosphere and discover the benefits of Yoga\, from increased flexibility\, better posture\, a stronger body to a calmer mind\. See you on the mat! 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️✨ Edson P.S. Also, make sure to check out our new class **"Yoga for Men"** \- every Wednesday at 18:30 in the same location \- you can find the class list on our Meetup main page \!

Let's meet to write ! Schedule : 11:00 - 11:30 am : Presentation tour. Share briefly with the group about your project and your "goal of the day". 11:30 - 13:30 : Let's write ! 13:30 : Conclusion tour. Did you achieve your goal of the day ? See you soon !

You are looking for a change of scene, want something that move's you and wonder if dancing Salsa might be a good option. You're right – Salsa will lift your spirit and introduce you to a whole new group of people and an exciting scene. Join Oscar & Joke each Tuesday and/or Sunday as they guide you through Salsa from the basics, through to the advanced. Our classes are inclusive. We take the time you need to learn the style and take you step-by-step with us into the world of Salsa. We teach mainly in English and speak also Dutch, French and Spanish. Come and give it a go! Salsa is a good way to move your body, have fun and give your mind some mental sorbet after a turbulent day. Everyone welcome! Sundayschedule 13h45 to 15h Beginners 15h to 15h30 Footwork (shines) beginners & adv beginners 15h30 to 16h45 Advanced Beginners 16h45 to 17h15 Footwork Intermediate 1 & 2 17h15 to 18h30 Intermediate 1 Term dates Sundays: **18/1, 25/1, 1/2, 8/2, 15/2, 1/3, 8/3, 15/3, 22/3, 29/3** New students are accepted up to the 3rd class (latest start 1/2), after that please contact us for a private so we can get you up to speed with the material before joining the rest of the group. We teach the same class also on Tuesdays - so you can compensate a week of travel with a week where you take both classes. 10 classes are 120 euro ( classes of 1h15 + 30min of solo footwork for free) Additional information about prices and more: studionysalsa.be

You are looking for a change of scene, want something that move's you and wonder if dancing Salsa might be a good option. You're right – Salsa will lift your spirit and introduce you to a whole new group of people and an exciting scene. Join Oscar & Joke each Tuesday and/or Sunday as they guide you through Salsa from the basics, through to the advanced. Our classes are inclusive. We take the time you need to learn the style and take you step-by-step with us into the world of Salsa. We teach mainly in English and speak also Dutch, French and Spanish. Come and give it a go! Salsa is a good way to move your body, have fun and give your mind some mental sorbet after a turbulent day. Everyone welcome! Sundayschedule 13h45 to 15h Beginners 15h to 15h30 Footwork (shines) beginners & adv beginners 15h30 to 16h45 Advanced Beginners 16h45 to 17h15 Footwork Intermediate 1 & 2 17h15 to 18h30 Intermediate 1 Term dates Sundays: 18/1, 25/1, 1/2, 8/2, 15/2, 1/3, 8/3, 15/3, 22/3, 29/3 New students are accepted up to the 3rd class (latest start 1/2), after that please contact us for a private so we can get you up to speed with the material before joining the rest of the group. We teach the same class also on Tuesdays - so you can compensate a week of travel with a week where you take both classes. 10 classes are 120 euro ( classes of 1h15 + 30min of solo footwork for free) Additional information about prices and more: studionysalsa.be

This class is a practical, hands-on introduction to creating strong, dramatic portraits using a single light source. We’ll be working in a small studio environment with one model and one light, focusing on how light placement, distance, and modifier choice completely change mood and shape. This is not a lecture-only class—you’ll see the setup demonstrated and then rotate through shooting time yourself. What we’ll cover • How to shape dramatic light with a single source • Light placement for short light, broad light, and high-contrast looks • Controlling shadow depth and falloff in tight spaces • Using minimal gear to create intentional, cinematic portraits • Directing a model efficiently while lighting stays simple What to expect • Small group (10 photographers max) • One shared lighting setup, adjusted live so you can see cause and effect • Time to shoot the model and ask questions as we go • Emphasis on decision-making, not presets or gimmicks Who this is for • Beginner to early-intermediate photographers • Anyone who feels overwhelmed by multi-light setups • Photographers who want stronger, more intentional portraits What to bring • Any camera (DSLR or mirrorless) • A lens in the 35–85mm range is ideal • Fully charged batteries and memory card Lighting gear and model are provided. You just focus on shooting and learning.

## **Floral Fantasy: Experience Designing a Fine-Art Portrait for Your Portfolio** For one afternoon, step out of routine shooting and into a world built entirely for creation. This is a small, immersive fine-art portrait experience where flowers, light, and human expression come together in a fully realized set. Think less classroom, more of a creative process—a space where photographers gather, ideas are exchanged, and something beautiful is built collaboratively. You’ll photograph a professionally styled model in a custom floral environment designed in collaboration with a professional florist. The set, wardrobe, and makeup are intentionally crafted to support a painterly, fine-art aesthetic, giving you images that feel elevated, cohesive, and portfolio-ready. Throughout the shoot, I’ll guide you through the creative process in real time: * How fine-art portraits begin as ideas, not lighting diagrams * How to shape light for softness, texture, and depth * How to direct and pose a model to create emotion and flow * How to think creatively about building stylized scenes without large budgets This is a hands-on experience. You won’t just observe—you’ll shoot, adjust, experiment, and refine, while also connecting with other photographers who value creativity and craft. To keep the experience personal and focused, the day is divided into **small, timed shooting sessions**. The space is intentionally intimate and will accommodate **5 photographers per session** (with a maximum of 6), along with the model, florist and make-up artist. Sessions will run between **12:00 PM and approximately 5:00 PM**, with each group receiving **about 1.5 to 2 hours** of dedicated shooting and instruction. This structure ensures: * Ample shooting time without crowding * Direct access to the set, lighting, and model * Space for questions, experimentation, and refinement *Time slots will be selected or assigned closer to the event date to ensure a smooth flow throughout the day.* The entire experience will be professionally recorded. After the event, attendees will receive access to the edited recording, allowing you to revisit the creative direction, lighting decisions, and included editing guidance at your own pace. ### **Who This Is For** This experience is designed for photographers who are comfortable with the basics and ready to explore something more creative. This is a good fit if you: * Know how to operate your DSLR or mirrorless camera * Own a camera that can connect to studio lights and a tethered setup * Want to create more artistic or fine-art work for your portfolio * Are curious about lighting but don’t feel confident designing it alone * Enjoy collaborative environments and meeting like-minded creatives You do **not** need advanced lighting knowledge. The guidance is intentionally approachable and focused on learning through doing. **You are welcome to message me if you have any questions before signing up at 571-422-8066 or email at jberg@photoberg.io** ### **Who This Is Not For** This event may not be the right fit if you: * Are brand new to using a camera and manual controls * Are looking for a purely technical or lecture-based lighting class * Prefer rigid instruction over experimentation and creative flow This experience prioritizes creativity, collaboration, and exploration over technical perfection. **Early-bird pricing is available at $149.** *Your ticket directly supports the creation of this experience—helping fund the professional styling, set design, and dedicated time needed to deliver a meaningful, high-quality creative environment that elevates your skills.* You’ll leave with portfolio-worthy images, a clearer creative framework you can adapt to your own work, and new connections within the local photography community.

Northern Virginia Photographer’s Coffee Chat is a monthly Saturday morning meetup for photographers, videographers, and creators who want to meet more local talent, swap ideas, and leave with new connections (and better shoots). We’ll keep it simple: coffee, quick intros, what you’re working on, and time to network. No pitching, no awkward formal panel, just real people building creative momentum in NoVA. Hosted at The Studio by Nonagon Productions in Falls Church. Every month at 9:00am on Saturday.

**Did you know that female friendships are critical for every woman's well-being and longevity? Scientifically proven fact!** *Ladies, join me for a special gathering, let's celebrate the power of female friendships* *and* *empower each other through sharing our stories 💕* As a host & [Life and Relationship Coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/), I will be there to create a safe, fun space to truly connect and have conversations about life & love. Please [RSVP HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1979238487596?aff=oddtdtcreator) for me to know who is coming. **When**: January 24th at 2:00 pm. **Location:** True Food Kitchen in Reston Send me a direct message (571-315-1469) if you are running late and please only RSVP if you are coming. I look forward to seeing you there. \~ Irena

**Leave behind the rushed pace of traditional speed dating and embrace a more relaxed approach to meeting new people, facilitated by a [Dating Coach](https://lovedandfulfilled.com/) with prepared Conversation Icebreakers.** **💕 All ages!** **💕Different sections for different age groups.** Must[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1972845805913?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[RSVP HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1972845805913?aff=oddtdtcreator)** (Event is posted on multiple platforms, attendees list on Meetup does not reflect the actual number of RSVPs) * Easy-going meet & greet to socially warm up * Prepared questions to facilitate meaningful conversations and to assess compatibility * Engaging discussions in small groups * Opportunity to talk to every single person present * Stress free matchmaking by the coach after the event (no need to ask for contact info on the spot, you will get it after the event) * Fun games to play together Whether you are an introvert or an extravert, welcoming and easy-going environment is guaranteed. You won't have to sweat the small talk, and event will be structured to make connecting effortless. **Cost:** $35 (Pay through[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1299434316019?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1815006977729?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1815006977729?aff=oddtdtcreator)or **Venmo** to @Irena-Polyakova (1469) include your email address) **Location**: Uncle Jalapeno Restaurant in Herndon. **Time**: 3:00 pm \~ Irena

• What we'll do Learn how to take great pictures BEFORE you go on that expensive trip! And we will teach you how to use your camera IN THE FIELD, not in a classroom! Join our standard Monuments and Memorials workshop, offered Wednesdays and Saturdays, in which the instructor takes you to some of DC’s most popular attractions: White House, Lafayette Park, the Einstein, Lincoln, Korea, and Vietnam Three Servicemen Memorials, and finally to Union Station, where you learn to make all the moving people DISAPPEAR! Remember, it was Confucius who said: "I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do, and I understand." At Washington Photo Safari, we help you "do " and understand! That is why our motto is "See. Click. Learn." This $71 Safari (a 20% discount from the regular $89 price) begins with a 45-minute travel photography orientation, giving you basic tips in composition, F-stops and shutter speeds, portraiture, and interior photography. While you are taking pictures, you receive hands-on guidance on how to make those images even better! Advanced and smartphone photographers will appreciate the instructor’s extensive knowledge of the best camera angles in DC. This is suggested as a preliminary course before taking special safaris. Open to any photographers at any skill level with any camera, phone, or tablet. Transportation from site to site is provided by the instructor. • What to bring camera and all lenses • Important to know travel, architectural, portrait and street photography techniques