photomattjames

[photomattjames]

𝟰𝟬,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗿𝘂𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀. 𝗧𝘄𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀. 𝗢𝗻𝗲 𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗴𝗲. This weekend, I had the privilege of photographing the 2025 Broløbet — a half marathon that takes participants from Copenhagen, across the Øresund Bridge, and into Malmö. It was hot. It was windy. And it was unforgettable. There’s something surreal about standing in the middle of a structure that normally belongs to cars, trains and freight — surrounded instead by thousands of runners, each with their own story, pace, and purpose. Some were chasing personal bests. Others just wanted to say they’d done it. And many were simply soaking in the rare chance to cross this iconic stretch on foot. As a photographer, moments like this are gold: determination, exhaustion, joy, struggle, celebration — all playing out against the backdrop of one of northern Europe’s most spectacular pieces of infrastructure. Huge respect to hosts Øresundsbron, organisers Sparta Atletik & Løb and MAI, the hundreds of patient volunteers, and of course the participants for making it happen. And to the wind: thanks for the drama. You did your part (I lost my hat). 📸 A few selects from the day below.

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Royal Run Copenhagen/Frederiksberg: A Day of Gratitude Yesterday offered several moments of genuine appreciation. The first came during my morning bike ride along the harbour to the Det Kongelige Teater, where the Press Centre for the Royal Run team was located. There was no traffic, the sun was shining, and the view across the water was something an Instagram-influencer would have spent hours trying to capture for a Reel, or something 🫤 Later, while chatting with Camilla Hylleberg, I was reminded how far we’ve come since our days shooting for a client who didn’t value our work—or pay on time. Now here we were, receiving briefings on royal protocol and national media coverage. Quite a leap. The final feeling of gratitude arrived as I unfolded my DJI Mini drone and prepared to fly over Frederiksberg Allé. Permission had been granted by the relevant authorities, the wind had settled down, and everything was going according to plan. The drone once belonged to my dad, who passed away a couple of years ago. I can remember his enthusiasm and support when I first expressed an interest in owning one for corporate photography work. This flashback was in my thoughts as I carefully piloted the craft safely away from the crowds and the runners, and once again I thought: "Look how far I've come." I'd like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who makes Royal Run such a positive and successful event. Each of us – especially the runners – has their own story or motivation, and I'm just grateful to be invited to be a part of it. So, thanks to Lars Møller, Camilla, Signe Sjølund Torp, Britt Spangsberg, Marianne Skytte, Marianne Flensborg Hansen, Trygve Laub Asserhøj, Thor Thestrup Schnetler, Jeanette Marie Grøn Nielsen and the friendly faces I didn't get the chance to speak with yesterday. And of course, Københavns Kommune, Frederiksberg Kommune, the team from Kongehuset, and the cameraman from TV2, who alerted me to the whereabouts of certain participants along the route. For that I was also very grateful :-)

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It’s not every day you get to be in the room while global climate policy is being shaped. But that’s exactly where I found myself during a recent assignment for the Washington-based NDC Partnership. Their international members gathered for a high-level summit at the Copenhagen Marriott, where national commitments to reducing carbon emissions were discussed face-to-face. Before the main event, delegates explored three powerful symbols of the city’s climate ambition: ⚡️ Middelgrunden wind farm out in the Øresund ♻️ The pristine canals that run through Copenhagen’s heart 🔥 And ARC – Amager Ressourcecenter – the iconic waste-to-energy plant that’s changing how we think about urban sustainability. I was there to document the visit as the group explored the ARC facilities, took in the views from the top of CopenHill, and got a closer look at Copenhagen’s history and architecture from the deck of a Spar Shipping boat. The weather was completely on our side, and when the sun is shining, Copenhagen feels like an ideal place to live. But behind the postcard views, the urgency of climate change is real, and it’s conversations like these that give me hope. I feel incredibly lucky to be invited into spaces where those conversations are happening — and to do what I love while witnessing ideas that could shape the future. #ClimateChange #Environment #EventPhotography #EventFotograf #Copenhagen #København

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A man, a sandcastle, and a positive reminder I needed this week.

This editorial image I took at the start of my Danish journey shows a sculptor carefully shaping the final details of a massive sandcastle. It’s easy to admire the top — the intricate work that catches the light — but the real strength lies beneath, in the foundation he built long before the crowds arrived.

Earlier this week, I received some feedback that hit me hard. It was the first time I’ve faced criticism that didn’t feel fair — and I’ve been turning it over for a few days. Like most creatives, I welcome constructive feedback. It’s how we grow. But I also stand by my work, and after years behind the camera (and 42 five-star Google reviews), I know the effort, care, and craft I bring to every job.

My work is my reputation! So, I thought I'd turn this experience into a positive Call To Action :-)

If we've worked together and you’ve enjoyed the results, I’d love it if you left me a review — it helps more than you know. https://goo.gl/1WeC5W

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What a Sunday. The 2025 Copenhagen Marathon – my 11th year capturing this incredible event. From the first light at the start line, where thousands of runners gathered with nerves and energy in equal measure, to the vibrant streets of Østerbro, where local crowds cheered relentlessly, the atmosphere was electric. Then back to the finish line, just in time to capture the champions breaking the tape, emotional embraces, and the quiet moments of personal victory that say so much without words. As the official photographer, my job is to document more than just a race. It’s about stories. Commitment. Grit. And joy. I moved between locations throughout the day, anticipating key moments and doing my best to visually represent what makes this marathon one of Copenhagen’s standout events. Huge congratulations to everyone who took part — runners, organisers, volunteers, photographers, sponsors and supporters. You made it unforgettable once again.

[photomattjames]

Photographers aren’t just hired to take photos. We’re hired to see what others don’t. Twelve years into this game, and I still find myself chasing the shot that others might miss. Like this one: Copenhagen’s Cykelslangen, captured not long after the bridge first opened. The paint was fresh, the lines were clean, and the light… well, that was just luck, mixed with professional patience. I’m always on the lookout for those angles — the ones that feel familiar, but haven’t quite been seen like this before. That curiosity, that instinct to go a little further, is what’s kept me going all these years. Whatever you’re working on — creatively or otherwise — I hope you find your own version of that spark this weekend. ⚡️

https://www.photographybymatthewjames.com/index/C0000GrYVSk8D_dg

[photomattjames]

The last time I set up my mobile studio, something surprising happened. It reminded me just how much the little things matter. The light settings were dialled in. Background smooth (enough). Cameras ready. And my Spotify playlist? Already playing in the background. Something ambient, a bit rock-inspired; just enough to fill the space without taking it over. It helps me stay calm and focused. But more than that, it helps clients feel at ease. Because when the first person walks in, there’s often a bit of tension. A nervous smile. A few deep breaths. So I ask: “What would you like to listen to?” It breaks the ice. It turns the session into a conversation, not just a shoot. And just like that, we’re not strangers anymore. Often I take it for granted, but last time a client walked in and said: “Wow. This doesn’t feel like a typical headshot photo shoot.” They weren’t talking about the gear. They meant the vibe. The atmosphere. The way the room felt. Because a great portrait isn’t just about nice lighting or a good lens. It’s about making someone feel relaxed and confident — sometimes in just five minutes. 👉 If you’re planning portraits for your team or your next event, I’d love to help you make it a little less awkward — and a lot more memorable.

https://www.photographybymatthewjames.com/p/portrait-photography

[photomattjames]

This week I was told I’m the most expensive photographer my client has worked with in Copenhagen. Honestly? I took that as a compliment. Because they also said they were very happy with the results — and the feedback they’d received had been excellent. For me, that’s everything. Can you really put a price on trust, quality, and reliability? I always go above and beyond to capture the very best images for every client. Whether that means investing in new gear and software, adapting quickly to a changing plan, or going the extra mile (literally) to find the perfect angle. That was exactly the case on Monday. Once I’d wrapped up photography for OrangeDoor and ServiceNow at Tivoli Hotel & Congress Center, there was just one shot left to get — a final image of the venue. But I knew a quick snap outside the front entrance wouldn’t cut it. So I jumped on my bike and rode over to Kødbyen, where I knew the view would be far stronger. And this was the result. Huge thanks to Helen and the team at Raccoon London Event Photography for hiring me for this assignment. If you’re planning an event in Copenhagen and need a photographer who cares about the details, the results — and your reputation — let’s talk. https://www.photographybymatthewjames.com/p/event-photography

[photomattjames]

Enghaveparken: Shot for the Financial Times

Almost 100 years ago, Enghaveparken was designed as a green oasis for Copenhagen’s residents. Today, it has a new role: protecting the city from extreme rainfall.

For a recent Financial Times feature on climate resilience, I dusted off my drone and took to the skies over Enghaveparken. From above, the transformation is striking—this historic park is now an essential part of Copenhagen’s flood defense strategy, designed to store excess rainwater during heavy downpours.

Copenhagen has faced increasingly erratic weather, including a devastating cloudburst in 2011 that caused over €1bn in damage. In response, the city is rethinking urban design—integrating green spaces that double as flood protection, expanding tunnels to handle stormwater, and reinforcing 18th-century infrastructure to meet 21st-century challenges.

It was a privilege to capture these changes from the air and contribute to a conversation about how cities can adapt to a changing climate while staying livable and vibrant.

Check out the full article here: https://lnkd.in/drzH3U9Z

Huge thanks to Esan Swan for the commission!

[photomattjames]

Capturing the Vibe of Sandbox Films at CPH:DOX For the third year in a row, I had the pleasure of photographing Sandbox Films’ invite-only party at Strøm, one of Copenhagen’s best cocktail bars. This year’s event coincided with the European premiere of their latest documentary, How Deep is Your Love—a visually stunning and thought-provoking exploration of deep-sea life and the urgent challenges it faces. As always, Sandbox Films brings together some of the most creative minds in documentary filmmaking, and their CPH:DOX party was no exception. The room was filled with passionate conversations, clinking glasses, and the unmistakable energy of people dedicated to storytelling that challenges and inspires. For me, this was also an opportunity to challenge myself. Instead of sticking to my usual setup, I shot the evening with an 85mm f/1.8—pushing myself to see the event through a new lens (literally). A tighter focal length meant leaning into candid moments, playing with depth, and capturing an atmosphere that felt more intimate and immersive. A huge thank you to Sam Lazar Riviello, Jessica Harrop and the rest of the Sandbox Films team for having me once again. Can’t wait to see what’s next! Were you at CPH:DOX this year? What films stood out to you?

https://www.photographybymatthewjames.com/p/event-photography

[photomattjames]

Capturing the Face Behind Denmark’s Most Iconic City Posters. You might not recognise his face, but you've likely seen his work. Martin Schwartz's series of detailed city illustrations capture the essence of a city—its character, its quirks, its DNA. His detailed city posters aren’t just about architecture; they’re about storytelling. So when it came time to photograph him, I wanted to capture that same authenticity. We started with flash and reflectors, but the look didn’t quite match Martin’s relaxed, approachable style. Instead, we turned to natural light in the yard outside our shared office on Vesterbrogade—creating a portrait that feels as honest and timeless as his work. Martin’s process is fascinating—he cycles through cities for weeks, documenting every hidden gem before meticulously illustrating each one. His posters blend the iconic with the overlooked, celebrating the beauty of a city as a whole. This portrait is one of my recent favourites, not just because of the subject but because of the story behind it. A reminder that, whether through illustration or photography, great visuals start with understanding your subject.

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When Connor Zazzo from Onomondo reached out to me about shooting some PR photos and headshots for an upcoming press release, he emphasised the importance of finding a neutral location for the photo shoot. Right away, my mind started running through a list of possible venues, and I quickly landed on Zoku. Having photographed there before, I knew the building's layout, its funky furniture and lush, plant-filled foyer – all vital elements for the look we wanted to achieve. The goal? PR images that radiate vibrancy, personality, approachability, and professionalism — ensuring their team looks just as good online as they do in person. But professional photography isn’t just about looking good. It’s about building trust, creating a strong first impression, and making sure your business stands out for all the right reasons. The end result? A set of colourful, eye-catching images that Onomondo could confidently distribute to the media and showcase on their website. Huge thanks to Michael Freundt Karlsen, Rasmus Jensen, Henrik Aagaard, Mille Hertz, Nicolai Alexander Troensegaard and Connor for for trusting me with this project – and for making the entire experience fun and easy-going. And thanks to the team at Zoku for accommodating my request and for being so helpful.

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Why leave the office for headshots when the studio can come to you? I don’t shoot classic studio portraits all that often, but I completely get why clients love that clean, polished look. That’s exactly why I invested in portable, professional studio gear — compact, mobile, and perfect for on-location shoots. It’s so mobile, in fact, that I recently packed the entire setup — including a white backdrop — into a suitcase and flew to England for a photo shoot. The client, thevaluecircle, were hosting an event and, with their whole team together in one place for the first time, it was the perfect opportunity to capture some professional headshots alongside the event coverage. CEO David Cockayne had this to say about working with me: "Professional, organised and focused on his craft. Matthew James creates brilliant photography for corporate use - working with us as the client to match our needs and also to challenge us to go further creatively. Highly recommend." Bringing the studio to you means less disruption, more convenience — and high-quality results. Is it time to update your team’s headshots? Let’s make it happen.

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Winter is truly here, but you wouldn't believe it from these latest portraits. Shot in a backyard one sunny morning for bro, I'd promised both Eva Rieks and Louise Guldager that we'd only be outside for five or ten minutes. Luckily for them (and me), Nick Scriven, Christiane Meisling and I had already been outside on a scouting mission. And, despite the cool temperatures, we were all in awe of how warm the light appeared in that courtyard: we'd hit the jackpot. The irony wasn't lost on me. Earlier that morning I'd been setting up my studio lights and background for Louise's official company headshot for the website. It's a process that takes about 45 minutes, and to get the best results takes a little bit of patience and lots of experience. So to then 'nip' outside and nail some natural-lighting press release shots in just a few minutes felt a bit…surreal. It was a reminder that sometimes, the simplest setups can produce the most striking results. Lighting, whether natural or artificial, is all about understanding and adapting to the environment. In this case, the soft winter sun did all the heavy lifting—we just had to be in the right place at the right time. Which do you prefer: the control of studio lighting or the spontaneity of natural light? As always, huge thanks to Helle Bro and the rest of the team for making me feel so welcome that day.

https://www.photographybymatthewjames.com/p/corporate-photograph

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A photographer’s reflection on Copenhagen’s ever-changing skyline As I precariously leaned over the edge of the building, I gave my harness one last tug to make sure I was securely anchored to the wall. I’ve always had a fondness for heights, and as a photographer it’s an excuse to get an entirely unique view, regardless of what you’re photographing. The sun was setting in the late September sky, and I marvelled at how absolutely gorgeous the skyline of Copenhagen is. Unlike many capital cities around the world, CPH isn’t overrun with skyscrapers or tall buildings. Instead it’s a hybrid of centuries-old spires and towers, side-by-side with modern Scandi architecture. With that said, it’s an ever-changing landscape. In the past year alone we’ve lost the irreplaceable hashtag#Børsen spire to a devastating fire, and gained a growing collection of high-rise apartments and offices out towards hashtag#Carlsbergbyen in the west and hashtag#Nordhavn north of the city centre. Many will say that the buildings are an eyesore; an unwelcome sight. I say they’re inevitable in the 21st century. As a photographer, I see the skyline not just as a collection of buildings, but as a story in constant motion—a balance between preserving history and embracing progress. Copenhagen’s ability to evolve while staying true to its heritage is something I deeply admire. Whether capturing the intricate details of a centuries-old spire or the clean lines of a modern high-rise, every building tells a story about where we’ve been and where we’re headed. For me, the skyline is a reflection of resilience, creativity, and ambition—a city proud of its past yet unafraid of the future.

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Why Natural Light (and a Touch of Flash⚡) Is a Game-Changer for Portraits in Scandinavian Winters❄️ Scandinavian winters are defined by short days and long nights, which can make natural light feel like a rare gift. But that’s also what makes it so special for portrait photography—when it’s there, it’s absolutely worth embracing. The low angle of the sun during these months creates beautifully soft and diffused light, which is perfect for flattering skin tones and adding an ethereal quality to portraits. That said, the fleeting nature of winter light means it doesn’t always arrive when you need it—or last as long as you’d like. That’s where flash becomes a game-changer. A well-placed flash, especially one balanced with available light, can recreate that natural glow even on the darkest days. By using soft modifiers or bouncing light, it’s possible to mimic the softness of winter sun while adding just enough brightness to make the image pop. Combining these two techniques—leveraging available natural light and augmenting it with flash—can result in portraits that feel warm, authentic, and timeless, no matter the time of day or weather. It’s about working with the season, not against it. So whether it’s a professional headshot or a team photo, winter portraits don’t have to feel cold or dull. With the right balance of natural and artificial light, they can shine. Do you embrace the unique beauty of winter light in your portraits? I’d love to hear your thoughts—or help you capture it in your own!

[photomattjames]

Thrilled to Receive Weply’s 5-Star Feedback! It’s inspiring to work with a company whose mission extends beyond profit. Since 2018, Weply has been hiring people with disabilities as chat consultants, offering flexible work arrangements tailored to individual needs. These roles empower their team members to contribute meaningfully, regardless of location or hours worked. Today, they’ve already hired 31 people with disabilities and aim to employ 500 by 2030—an incredible commitment to social and economic inclusion. I’ve had the pleasure of photographing leaders from the hashtag#Weply team on a couple of occasions now. Here’s what Maggie Jane Magaard from the company had to say about our collaboration: “I have now returned to Matthew a few times after he was first recommended to me in my network. Each time I am impressed with his professionalism, ability to put people at ease, and of course the results are always top notch.” To learn more about how Weply’s mission, visit https://lnkd.in/d4JjQmqD