Echoes of Time
TIMELESS PORTRAIT
Historic SWISS Villa 2026
FASHION TO ARTISTIQUE NUDE
November 11-14, 2026
An intimate fine art photography workshop in a historic Swiss villa.
CREATED BY RETO HEIZ AND SEPHORA SCHAFFNER
Surrounded by a romantic park, Villa Elfenau is a beautifully preserved 19th-century residence in Biel where history and creativity come together.
For three days, photographers will enjoy exclusive access to this extraordinary location, creating alongside two professional models under the guidance of Swiss portrait photographer Reto Heiz.
THE EXPERIENCE
Echoes of Time is an intimate creative workshop designed for photographers seeking inspiration, meaningful exchanges and portfolio-worthy images.
With only four photographers, participants enjoy generous shooting time, personal guidance from Reto Heiz and exclusive access to Villa Elfenau and its romantic gardens.
WORKSHOP PROGRAM
November 11
From 6:00 PM
Arrival & Welcome Dinner
Meet the group, settle into Villa Elfenau and enjoy an informal dinner together before the workshop begins.
November 12
9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Villa Elfenau – Interior Sessions
A full day dedicated to portraiture and storytelling within the elegant interiors of the villa. Participants will work with two professional models while receiving personal guidance from Reto Heiz.
7:00 PM – Dinner at the Villa
November 13
9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Villa Elfenau & Romantic Gardens
A second day of shooting between the villa and its enchanting gardens, focusing on portraiture, creativity and portfolio development.
7:00 PM – Dinner at the Villa
November 14
Breakfast & Departure at 9:30 AM
THE PHOTOGRAPHER
Reto Heiz
Known for his poetic and emotional approach to portraiture, Swiss photographer Reto Heiz creates images that feel both intimate and timeless.
Throughout the workshop, Reto will share his creative process, approach to directing models and use of natural light, helping participants strengthen both their technical skills and artistic vision.
THE MODELS
Sephora Schaffner
Sephora Schaffner is a fashion and artistique model. Published by prestigious magazines such as Playboy and The Normal Magazine, she has no shortage of ambitions to create dream images. Over the past three years, she has participated in workshops across Europe with the most inspiring photographers. Now she’s taking the lead in co-creating this immersive workshop, bringing together all the ingredients of experience and creativity.
Photo by Reto Heiz
Halyna
Halyna is an international fashion and fine art model with over seven years of experience working across Europe and North America. Published in renowned magazines such as Vogue Italia and Playboy France, she brings elegance, sensitivity and artistic depth to every project.
With a background in dance and a strong sense of visual storytelling, Halyna combines graceful movement and emotional expression, making her an inspiring presence in front of the camera.
BOOK NOW
Limited to 4 photographers
An intimate experience designed to maximize shooting time, personal guidance and creativity.
INCLUDED
✔ 3 nights accommodation at the Villa
✔ Breakfasts, lunches, dinners
✔ 2 full shooting days
✔ Guidance by Reto Heiz
✔ Two professional models
✔ Styled wardrobe for both models
✔ Small group of 2 photographers
✔ Access to all indoor and outdoor shooting locations
Travel expenses are not included.
PRICE
Early Bird CHF 1,600 until 30.09
Regular price : CHF 1,800
We look forward to sharing this enriching experience with you in Switzerland !
INFORMATIONS
PHOTOGRAPHY EQUIPMENT
This workshop will be primarily conducted using natural light. We will have two reflectors available (one for each group) throughout the shooting sessions.
Participants who wish to use flash are welcome to bring their own equipment.
For any questions regarding photography equipment, you can contact Reto directly at reto.heiz@fotopix.ch.
MODEL RELEASE
Each participant will receive a non-commercial model release after the workshop.
WELCOME DINNER
A welcome dinner will take place at Villa Elfenau in Biel on the evening of arrival at 6:00 PM.
This is a great opportunity to meet the group, discuss the workshop and get to know each other before the shooting days begin.
Participants will also receive the detailed schedule for the workshop during the evening.
THE LOCATION
Elegant interiors, a spiral staircase, luminous verandas and enchanting gardens provide a unique variety of photographic settings.
