Michael's photographic vision is one of creative light. Like the Dutch Masters of the 17th century, he uses light to tell stories - but he uses modern and edgy techniques to make true 21st century images.

Corporate, family, journalism, commercial: His good business sense and thorough understanding of his clients' needs mean that  Michael can photograph whatever style the occasion, and the client, requires.


He is a born educator. He taught photography at the internationally known Sheridan College of Art and Design, and he teaches individuals and small groups in his studio, or on location anywhere, or worldwide via Zoom. He has taught at the School of Imaging, at Vistek, and at the annual Niagara School of Imaging (NSI). Michael's teaching methods are aimed at making you truly master photography, from the technology to the art, in a minimum of time.


Michael has written for a number of photography magazines, and his photography has appeared in The Globe and Mailthe National Post, The Toronto Sun, The Toronto Star, BBCThe Hamilton SpectatorWest of the City, and many other publications.

Based on his many years of teaching photography, Michael has written a series of acclaimed photography teaching e-books. They are available on Amazon - and here.


Based in Ottawa, award-winning photographer Michael Willems works from Ottawa as well as regularly working in Toronto, Las Vegas and Amsterdam.  Engineer by training, "C"-level business executive by experience, and photographer and educator by talent and choice, he has worked in 49 countries worldwide.

©2021 Michael Willems

A few of the organizations Michael has photographed for: