Amalienborg Palace Square

Amalienborg Palace Square is the octagonal courtyard in the Frederiksstaden district of Copenhagen, Denmark, surrounded by four matching rococo palaces that serve as the residence of the Danish royal family. At the centre stands an equestrian statue of Frederik V. The square's defining photographic frame is its axis: looking west along Frederiksgade, the green copper dome of the Marble Church rises directly behind the statue, and looking east the axis opens toward the harbour and the Opera House across the water. Standing on the axis of Frederiksgade aligns the dome with the statue and the palace facades on either side. Light is even for most of the day because the square is open and the pale stone reflects ambient light; the changing of the guard at noon adds colour and movement, with the Royal Life Guards in blue trousers and bearskins marching in from Rosenborg. Blue hour is the best time for the architecture, when the facades are lit and the sky is deep blue. The square can be photographed all year, and winter evenings offer early dusk. Crowds gather for the guard change, so those wanting an unobstructed frame should photograph the square in the early morning or after the ceremony. Tripods are possible outside the guard routes, but guards and police can ask photographers to move, and the courtyard itself is a secure area where the guards must not be obstructed. Drones are not permitted over the royal residence. Entry to the square is free, while the museum inside the palaces charges admission. Public toilets and cafes are found on Bredgade and near the harbour. A 24-70 mm lens covers the square, and a longer lens helps pick out guards.