Many Content Creators visit Munich and capture the city in videos, articles and photos. We have compiled a questionnaire to get an insight into their creative work and to find out what inspired them about Munich. This time, Romina Kultesa from Munich and Christian Theile from Planegg share their photography tips for Munich.
You live in/near Munich. What do you particularly like about Munich?
Munich is very multifaceted. On the one hand, Munich can offer a wide range of cultural activities, great restaurants and current events. On the other hand, Munich's proximity to the mountains and lakes allows for various outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, mountain biking or skiing. We really appreciate this combination in our city.
The most interesting place?
The Kunstareal (art quarter): with changing exhibitions; you can always discover something new here. It's also a great place to capture beautiful perspectives. Especially because of the different lighting moods, the whole area keeps having a fascinating effect on us. It's a superb spot to take creative pictures. One of our favourites is Pinakothek der Moderne (art gallery), designed by architect Stefan Braunfels. The minimalist building affords plenty of space for creative shoots.
Your latest new discovery?
Recently, we had the opportunity to visit and photograph the EPO's art collection. We were overwhelmed by the variety of artworks and the interior design. That's why our insider tip for everyone would be an art tour of the European Patent Office in Munich.
What do you think distinguishes the city's architecture?
For us, Munich is characterised by the many different architectural eras and districts. For one thing, the impressive buildings in the heart of the city by Leo von Klenze and others, such as the Residenz (city palace) with the Hofgarten (court garden), Königsplatz (square) and the Nationaltheater, which always make Munich seem like a visit to Italy. It lends this part of the city the flair of the "Bavarian Dolce Vita". Then again, there are also very urban places, such as the area around the 'Bahnwärter Thiel’ (area), the 'Werksviertel' (area) or the 'Macherei’ (area). The Olympic village features many magnificent buildings from the Brutalist period. At BMW Welt by architect Coop Himmelblau or in the Allianz Arena (football stadium) by star architects Herzog & de Meuron, you can experience impressive modern architecture, which we particularly like.
If you could give a friend three tips for a trip to Munich, where would you send them?
A visit to the Viktualienmarkt (food market), where you can enjoy a coffee at the Kaffee-Rösterei Viktualienmarkt (coffee roasters) and literally absorb the vibrant hustle and bustle the city and taste many delicious Bavarian delicacies. For the evening, a visit to one of Munich's amazing rooftop bars, such as the Mandarin Oriental, M'Uniqo Rooftop Bar or the Frau im Mond roof terrace, from where you can admire the great view and sunset over Munich. Or grab a bike to explore the city: this way you can gather many impressions and see various sights. Or simply cycle along the Isar (river) and take a break in the beer garden.
What is the source of inspiration for your photos?
We have a keen interest in architecture, design/art and urban development. That's why we always try to stay up to date. Since we like to travel and discover or experience new things, we bring back many ideas and inspiration from our travels and research. With every photographed location, with every shoot, we gain valuable experience for future projects. But we also draw inspiration from films and magazines, which helps us gather ideas and recognise trends. Ultimately, though, it is simply our passion for photography!
What is the greatest challenge?
Our quest for perfection definitely poses the biggest challenge for us. When we take photos, we are always on the lookout for optimal conditions. This involves good planning, sometimes getting up very early to have as few people on location as possible. Spontaneous rescheduling if the weather doesn't cooperate. Hardly any breaks, as ambition is often greater than hunger. ;)
You post a lot of Munich photos, which one has received the best feedback from your followers lately?
When we started our photo series ''Shooting and showcasing architecturally interesting places in Munich", we generally received great feedback, which we didn’t expect in such abundance. We enjoy exciting and inspiring people to visit or revisit these places and see them from a different perspective. The Olympic swimming pool in Munich was a fantastic photo series, and many people gave us exactly the feedback we are so enthusiastic about. Some comments said that they had never perceived some places like this before, even though they already knew them.
Which Munich photo do you like best? And why?
Each of our photos has something we like. But one of our favourite Munich photos or experiences is definitely the visit to the Allianz Arena (football stadium). Partly, because we really appreciate the work of the architects Herzog & de Meuron. Then again, we were very impressed to have an empty football stadium all to ourselves and to be able to photograph it.
Your personal tip for the perfect holiday photo?
A mix of the top sights and places that not everyone knows straight away. You can certainly impress your family and friends with this mix. Also pay a little attention to time: this can often help you avoid or reduce crowds. Try out different perspectives and look for an impressive foreground: this way you immediately have an exciting and interesting composition.
Who are you and what do you do?
We are long-time friends and colleagues who are passionate about architecture and photography. Our different strengths make us a wonderful and well-coordinated team. Our fascination with architecture drives us to find the best and most impressive buildings and places and capture them creatively through photography. With new buildings popping up all the time, we are constantly looking and dreaming of places for our future photos.
Instagram: Romina Kutlesa
Instagram: Christian Theile
Thank you very much, Romina and Christian!
