Manuel Heywinkel
Photo: Manuel Heywinkel

Docu Interview with Manuel Heywinkel

1) Can you tell us a little about yourself and your background in photography?
MH: I’ve actually been taking photos since my youth. As an architect, I’ve developed a special sensitivity for architecture, lines, perspective, and image composition.
Instagram has become the ideal platform for me to share my photographic work with a broader audience. I’m all the more pleased that my images have received such positive feedback and recognition in such a short time.

2) What was the story or concept behind your Docu special edition?
MH: I came across Docu Magazine on Instagram and reached out right away.
The printed edition makes a great impression – high-quality design, a nice feel, and also a wonderful gift for friends and family.
For me, it was also a fantastic opportunity to present my photos to an even wider audience.
I was absolutely thrilled when I received confirmation for my own special edition.

3) What happened after the publication? (I’d love to hear more about the exhibition and how it came about.)
MH: Docu Magazine actually paved the way for my very first solo photo exhibition.
Of course, I brought a copy of the magazine to my meeting at the gallery – it was the perfect way to showcase my work in a high-quality format.
I’m convinced that the magazine was one of the key reasons I was ultimately offered the exhibition.

4) Looking back, do you think the publication played a role? In what way?
MH: Oh yes – absolutely!
The publication not only brought me more visibility and new followers on Instagram, but it also opened the door to connecting with other photographers.
People often ask me about the magazines – I’ve published two special editions now – and that makes me happy every time.
It’s also a great feeling knowing that some copies have been sold and that a part of me now lives on in someone else’s bookshelf (laughs).

5) What advice would you give photographers thinking about being published in print? What are the benefits? What’s challenging? And how about doing an exhibition – how does that process work?
MH: If you love photography – whether professionally or as a hobby – and already share your work on Instagram or other platforms, I can only recommend getting in touch with Docu Magazine.
It’s a fantastic feeling to hold your own printed work in your hands.
Unlike the fast-paced online world, flipping through a magazine encourages you to slow down – to take your time with the images, the thoughts behind them, and your own photographic journey.

For me, publishing in Docu Magazine was an important step in presenting myself beyond the digital space.
The process is refreshingly straightforward: select your photos, edit them if needed, upload them to the website, and include a short description of yourself, your work, and your motivation – and you’re done.

In terms of an exhibition, the magazine was also a valuable tool. It provided a professional, tangible way to showcase my work.
Overall, the experience of being published has been incredibly enriching – and I’m already looking forward to future opportunities!

A heartfelt thank you to Tuomas and the entire team for the great collaboration!

Follow Manuel on Instagram: @manuel_242neo

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