How to Get the Most Out of Photokina 2020
- Off-the-Beaten-Path Photography Locations in Germany You Have to See
- Top Photography Workshops to Attend in 2019-2020
I couldn’t tell you how many trade shows I’ve been to over the years, but there is one thing in common about my trips - I spend half a day or maybe a full day at the show, and then I spend the rest of my time out exploring and taking photos.
So that got me thinking…
With Photokina coming up in May 2020 in Cologne, Germany, what other things can I see and do in the area.
Here’s a few things I think would turn a trip to Photokina into a photography adventure of a lifetime.
Photographing Cologne’s Architecture is a Must
Princeton Photo Workshop: North Rhine-Westphalia-Photokina Photography Tour & Workshop
Cologne is a 2,000-year-old city, and its mix of ancient and modern buildings is beautifully unique.
The Cologne Cathedral likely sits at the top of the must-see building list in this city, with its twin spires rising above the surroundings like a beacon to parishioners.
Aside from the incredible details of the building’s Gothic architecture, there are many things inside to see, from 15th Century stained glass windows to the black marble high altar from the 1300s.
In fact, the cathedral houses so many precious antiquities that it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also the most visited landmark in all of Germany.
Quick Tip: Don’t miss the gilded shrine dedicated to the Three Kings. The sarcophagus is adorned with scenes from the life of Jesus, his apostles, and prophets. The reliefs were done in the 12th Century by Nicholas of Verdun and are one of the most celebrated works in the cathedral.
Take Time to Visit Cologne’s Old Town
Photo by SeanPavonePhoto via iStock
The Old Town area of Cologne is an historic, hundreds-year-old residential and commercial area that offers many different opportunities for taking photos.
There’s street scenes that harken back to the old days with cobblestone streets and open plazas. Likewise, you’ll find 19th Century fountains, like the Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, that depicts Cologne’s gnomes, where were believed to have done all the work in the city at night so its residents could rest and relax.
Perhaps even more interesting is that the majority of Old Town (and the rest of Cologne, for that matter) were destroyed in World War II. Seeing the rebuilt city thriving today is a testament to humankind’s ability to overcome incredible obstacles.
Learn More:
Be Sure to Experience German Cuisine (and Beer!)
Photo by kabVisio via iStock
From Michelin-star restaurants to local mom and pop eateries to vendors on the streets of Old Town, there is no lack of superb food to be found in Cologne.
While you’re out exploring the city with your camera, why not pick up a bratwurst with sauerkraut as you stroll?
Or, you can sit down in a restaurant and enjoy a full meal, featuring German classics like schnitzel (a breaded cutlet), kartoffelkloesse (potato dumplings), and apfelkuchen (apple cake)
Photo by MoreISO via iStock
And though I’m not much of a drinker, you can bet I’d be searching for a pub to grab a stein of German beer. After all, though the Germans didn’t invent beer, they’ve been making it for over 1,000 years, so it stands to reason that German beer has a long-standing tradition of being some of the best in the world!
In fact, since 1516, German brewers have worked under the Beer Purity Law, which mandates that beer must be made from barley, hops, and clean water - and nothing else. And while more liberal beer laws have since been passed, many brewers continue the strict tradition of using no more than the three allowed ingredients.
Maximize Your Time at Photokina
Princeton Photo Workshop: North Rhine-Westphalia-Photokina Photography Tour & Workshop
In addition to knowing what to photograph, where to go, and what to eat and drink, perhaps the best tip you can use to get the most out of your Photokina 2020 trip is to maximize your time while you’re there. And to do that, why not join a photography tour of the area?
I’ve had an opportunity to get to know the folks at Princeton Photo Workshop over the last month or so, and their passion for photography and dedication to providing top-notch experiences for their clients is truly inspiring.
Princeton Photo Workshop: North Rhine-Westphalia-Photokina Photography Tour & Workshop
On their North Rhine-Westphalia-Photokina workshop (which runs May 24-30, 2020), you’ll get to experience out-of-the-way locations that many tourists don’t get to see.
From the breathtaking architectural wonders of abandoned industrial complexes in the Ruhr District to medieval villages like Aachen, where you can explore the gorgeous Aachen Cathedral, to the cobblestone streets of Monschau, a tiny village that has changed little in the last three centuries, you’ll have all kinds of opportunities to explore and photograph this unique region of Germany.
Princeton Photo Workshop: North Rhine-Westphalia-Photokina Photography Tour & Workshop
Princeton Photo Workshop, together with their local photography expert, has devoted a lot of time and effort to ensuring the best experiences for photographers to get the most out of your time.
Speaking of time, you’ll get to spend a day at Photokina, where you’ll witness the unveiling of the latest and greatest photography gear and gadgets. Likewise, you’ll have time to explore all the Cologne has to offer.
Princeton Photo Workshop: North Rhine-Westphalia-Photokina Photography Tour & Workshop
Throughout the trip, you’ll gather with the other tour participants and the workshop leaders to review images, discuss techniques, and see post-processing demonstrations. This focus on education, growth, and sharing, along with the warmth and support of the tour leaders, is what makes a trip with Princeton Photo Workshop worth every penny.
If you’re excited to explore Photokina, make a true trip of it and add an exploration of the North Rhine-Westphalia area to your list for 2020!
Get more details about the North Rhine-Westphalia-Photokina Workshop.
