So I'm attempting to remove the oil filter housing to do the gaskets.
Next step is to remove the two bolts that hold the bracket holding the aux water pump to the oil filter housing.

I can see these two bolts. How in the world can someone remove these?

I can get a socket on one from below. Something gets in the way for the other bolt. I'm also concerned that if they're this hard to access and get out, how am I going to get them back in? Most of the challenge is getting a bolt located and started.

Removing heat shields seems like a piece of cake compared to these two bolts!

 

How about posting your model and year---

 

8mm short socket with a 1in extension on a 1/4in air ratchet. You can disconnect the coolant expansion tank and sling it out of the way and u can get the bolts from the top. That's the best way to do it. Done it countless times.

 

We have a 97 cooper S.
In case it benefits someone later, a couple of notes:
I removed the expansion tank like Tylanger1 said. I also slipped off the tube from the bottom so the tank could be laid aside more easily.
I also pulled off the intake hose going into the turbo.

Doing both of these gave me a much more open path to the bracket with the two bolts. One is clearly visible. The other is not but I could get a finger on it to guide my socket onto it.