Amersfoort Koppelpoort

A medieval gate that is photogenic from every angle

The Koppelpoort in Amersfoort is one of the best-preserved medieval gates in the Netherlands. Built around 1400, it combines a land gate with a water gate spanning the Eem. That makes it unique: here you have a building that blocks both the street and the river, with imposing round towers on either side. For an architecture photographer, that is invaluable. You have dozens of angles to choose from, and each one gives a different image.

Light and season

The blue hour works exceptionally well here. The stones of the Koppelpoort take on a warm glow in the artificial light of the street lamps, while the sky is still deep blue. The reflection in the Eem completes the picture, especially when the water is calm. Arrive early, because once the city wakes up, cyclists and passers-by start appearing in the frame. That does not have to be a problem, but you want the choice.

Mist is the other great asset. In autumn and early winter, morning mist regularly hangs over the Eem. The gate then half disappears into the grey, and the water absorbs the atmosphere. That produces images you simply cannot make on a sunny day. Plan these sessions around sunrise, when the water is still cold and the air is just beginning to warm.

Composition and focal length

For classic architectural shots of the full gate, a focal length of around 24 to 35mm works well. You can then get the entire building in frame with enough context from the surroundings. If you want to emphasise the details of the brickwork or the wooden waterwheel construction, switch to 85mm or longer. Try standing on the bridge that meets the gate at an angle: from there you can see the depth of the archway and the reflection at the same time.

Practical

You can park at the Eemplein car park, a few minutes' walk from the gate. The gate itself stands on public ground, so no permit is required for photography on the public road. At the waterside there is room to get low for reflection shots. Bear in mind tourists and passing boats during the high season, they can disrupt your composition but can equally bring life to an otherwise static image.

Sources and further reading

• Gemeente Amersfoort: Koppelpoort
• Rijksmonumenten.nl: Koppelpoort
• Wikipedia: Koppelpoort