Binnendieze Den Bosch

Photography in the hidden city

The Binnendieze is one of the most remarkable photo locations I know in the Netherlands. It is a network of waterways that runs through and beneath the old city centre of 's-Hertogenbosch, partly covered by buildings, partly open to the sky, always unexpected. You turn into an alley and suddenly find yourself standing above a canal. Or you follow a passageway and emerge onto a quayside that few people ever find.

What makes this so photogenic is the combination of water, stone and light. The reflection of the water on the underside of cellar vaults creates patterns you will not see anywhere else. During the day, light filters through openings and gaps, giving you strong contrasts between shadow and light. In overcast conditions that harshness softens and everything becomes gentler, but the atmosphere remains powerful.

Light and timing

The covered sections call for a high ISO and a steady hand, or a tripod. ISO 800 to 3200 is not unusual here. A wide focal length, something like 24mm or 28mm, lets you show the space without too much distortion. But a 50mm works well too if you want to isolate details: a reflection, a passageway, a bridge in the background.

Early in the morning the city is still quiet and you have the canal sides to yourself. In summer it is beautiful when warm light falls at a low angle through the openings. In autumn and winter the atmosphere is rawer and quieter, and that suits these kinds of places well. The Binnendieze works throughout the year.

Practical

Part of the Binnendieze can be seen from boat tours, but the best of it you experience on foot. The access points are scattered throughout the city centre. Look for the Molenstraat, the Verwersstraat or the area around the Zuidwal. Some passageways are public and freely accessible. For the boat tour you can book through the municipality or the VVV. No permit is required for photography in public spaces.

Your best option for parking is one of the car parks on the edge of the city centre, as the streets are narrow and the centre is largely closed to cars. Walk in from there and let yourself be surprised. The Binnendieze reveals itself best when you are in no hurry.

Sources and further reading

• Gemeente 's-Hertogenbosch over de Binnendieze
• Stichting Binnendieze
• Wikipedia: Binnendieze