A Virtual Tour of Copenhagen
Just before lockdown, I spent several days in the wonderful city of Copenhagen. It was early March, so still rather chilly but the sun made its rare appearance throughout the day.
During my three days, I wandered the different neighbourhoods, taking in the colour and design and stopping for pastry breaks along the way. Copenhagen is one of those quaint European cities that balances tradition with ultra-modern aesthetics, a bit like London. If you’re a sucker for Scandinavian design, then be prepared to have your heart (and wallet) won over.
In this virtual tour, I’m sharing my favourite Copenhagen photography along with some background commentary about why I enjoyed shooting them. I hope you enjoy and are inspired to visit one day!
1. The Colourful Historic Port of Nyhavn
Of course I’m starting with the iconic historic port, Nyhavn. Lined with terraced restaurants and timeworn boats, this is a great place to stroll, people watch and enjoy the sun (when it makes an appearance).
I waited for low winds and still water to capture the reflection of the colourful buildings. Moving in closer to the boats, I loved shooting the textures of the old wood and used ropes which looked like they had been on many adventures.
2. Sample Danish Goods at Torvehallerne Market
Is it even a European city without a good food market?
Torvehallerne is one of those places with ready-to-eat meals, coffee, flowers, produce, alcohol and other Danish treats. So whether you’re looking for souvenirs or just want to collect affairs for a picnic in a park, this is the place to be.
Between the fresh flowers, produce, and strange fish I was drawn to all the colours and textures from each vendor.
3. Varied Vegetation at the Botanical Gardens
It was a cold and rainy morning when I took shelter inside the botanical gardens. Each room hosted a variety of plants from ranging atmospheres. There were aired desert cacti and lush rainforest florals.
I took my time, playing around with contrasting plants, vibrant colours and capturing the beautiful design of the building itself.
4. simplicity and Symmetry in Nybord
My favourite place to wander in Copenhagen was the residential neighbourhood of Nybord. These identical orange houses are old naval barracks that are still used as homes today.
I wanted to work different angles to show the scope and conformity of the buildings, while capturing some of the details that made each home unique.
5. City Views from The Top of the Round Tower
With so many climbable church towers and lookouts in Copenhagen it’s easy to get city views from up above.
I climbed the Round Tower just before sunset to capture the stunning city colours; playing with the orange light and heavy contrasts in the shadows.
6. Old Royalty at Rosenborg Castle
Rosenborg Castle is the 17th century, Renaissance stomping ground of King Christian IV. A wander inside takes you back in time as you’re surrounded by old Danish opulence and crowned jewels.
Crouching low to the ground I wanted to use the bridge as a gateway into the castle. When inside, I looked for pockets of interesting light that highlighted the art and intricate furniture.
7. Parliament and the Royal Horses
I wandered by parliament several times and was lucky enough to catch the majestic royal horses out for their exercise.
I watched the horses exercise for a while, capturing them from all angles. I wanted to show the full scale of their playground, paired with intimate portraits.
8. A Walk Along the water front
The Little Mermaid statue is a highly sought after attraction and though it’s nothing to get excited about, the walk along the water to get there was. There are parks to explore and even a gothic-revival church, St. Alban’s, which was built in 1887.
I spotted two trees in the park, they were symmetric and barren from the winter. I waited for the patrolling soldiers to walk by and add a sense a scale. When I got to the Little Mermaid statue I was more fascinated by the groups of people crowded around to take pictures of it. For a basic attraction, it had some of the largest crowds in the city.
9. Intricate doors and colourful buildings
The charm of Copenhagen lies in the colourful historic buildings. This, topped with beautifully designed doors, and bicycles peppering the streets make for a picturesque moment at every turn.
I purposefully got lost and stumbled upon interesting streets - always a welcomed surprise.
10. Modern Danish Design
While much of the city retains its historic roots; new buildings, like the Copenhagen Opera House, are a powerful display of modern Danish design.
There was something jarring in the elegance and simplicity of the Opera House, juxtaposed against the cranes and industry fumes directly behind it.
11. Present-Day Royalty
Denmark is one of the 12 monarchies that remain in Europe and Amalienborg Palace is home to the current Danish royal family. Four opulent buildings surround a courtyard displaying the Danish flag high on the flagpole when members of the royal household are home.
I loved the little pops of Danish red in the guard towers.
12. DeLICIOUS DANISH FARE
Can’t visit Denmark without eating some danish pastries (simply called “pastries” in Denmark). Vanilla custard, icing and cinnamon are just some of the many flavours that I experienced for breakfast. After my morning sugar rush, lunches and dinner consisted of delicious fish (smoked and fresh) served as a Smørrebrød, the Danish open-faced sandwich.
Food photography has never really been a passion, more a necessity that was born from blogging. In this instance, I couldn’t help but want to photograph the fresh pastries, still warm from the oven and the colourful Smørrebrød platter.
13. AND OF COURSE, LOTS OF BIKES
Locals use bikes to get around everywhere. The city is small and designed for cyclists so you’ll see them wizzing by at every turn.
