Camera-Friendly Copenhagen

I can’t believe that it’s been five years since I visited the city of Copenhagen! This week I was looking through some old photos, in part looking through shots to see if I wanted to add any to my new website http://projectorperiod.com/.

Unlike the academic C.V., I see the website as a venue to expand upon rather than remove or ignore other interests and creative-critical pursuits–in my case graphic design, photography, video production, music / sound . . . poetry and translation?

This leads to a larger question of what goes into a portfolio and how to select the most appropriate shots. Maybe this can be saved for a future post. In the meantime, here are some of my favorite photos from my November 2012 tour of Copenhagen.

Points of Interest

Just a few days in Copenhagen? Here’s my short list on what to visit if you just have a day or two in your schedule.

1. Nyhavn

The must visit! This is the iconic shot of the city. The colorful facade of this 17th century waterfront harbor is breathtaking. And there’s lots of wonderful restaurants and bars along the canal. Blankets and outdoor space heaters–and a nice glass of wine–will keep you warm in the evening hours and allow you to relax and enjoy the view and company . . . even in November!

2. The Little Mermaid

Located at Langelinje Pier, this 1913 bronze and granite sculpture is one of Copenhagen’s most famous tourist attractions. A gift to the city from Danish brewer Carl Jacobsen, it commemorates fairytale writer Hans Christian Andersen (1805-1875), arguably Copenhagen’s most famous export.

3. Tivoli Gardens

The second oldest amusement park in the world! We didn’t make inside back in 2012, but they were already getting prepared for Christmas! Theaters, roller-coasters, pirate ships, live music, brilliant lights and fireworks . . . there’s something for everyone. Next time, I hope!

4. Børsen

A seventeenth-century stock exchange located right next to Christiansborg Palace, the seat of the Danish Parliament. You can see its green roof and decorative four-dragon spire from most spots in the city.

5. Amalienborg & Kastellet

OK! So I couldn’t pick just one! Amalienborg is the home of the Danish royal family and consists of four classical palace façades with rococo interiors around an octagonal courtyard. There’s a beautiful garden along the canal leading to the palace, with spectacular views of the Opera House, the Masting Crane and the Guard House across the waterway. Depending on what time you reach the palace, you might spot live music and the changing of the guard, who are on duty night and day. A short walk further north and you reach Kastellet, a seventeenth-century pentagram-shaped fortress with bastions at each corner. Along another nearby park, you’ll be greeted by a number of other surprises, including a classic windmill. I won’t spoil the rest! It does have the best views, no contest.