Around the World in Analogue: Greenland (Ilulissat, Sisimiut & Kangerlussuaq)

In this edition of Around the World in Analogue, film photographer Martin Goltermann shares his experiences and enchanting images of Greenland taken during his second trip to the island situated in the North Atlantic Ocean.

Name: Martin Goltermann
LomoHome: @iammartingoltermann
Social Media: Instagram: iammartingoltermann
Camera: Pentax 67 • 45 mm f/4.0 & 105 mm f/2.4
Film: Lomography Color Negative 400, Kodak Portra 400, Fuji Pro 400h & Kodak Gold 200
Location: Greenland (Ilulissat, Sisimiut and Kangerlussuaq)

Photo Credits: Martin Goltermann

Greenland, whose primary residents are the indigenous Inuit, is distinguished for its glaciers such as the massive Greenland Ice Sheet which covers roughly 80% of the whole island.

In his second trip, Martin was able to visit Ilulissat in western Greenland, which is popular for the Ilulissat Icefjord in Disko Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its splendor and is crucial in the study and understanding of climate change. He also travelled to the scenic town of Sisimiut, as well as Kangerlussuaq with its breathtaking views of Greenland's landscapes and wildlife.

The latter also serves as the island's major transportation hub and houses its airport and a museum. According to Martin, Greenland's awe-inspiring beauty and 'slow tempo' way of living stirred up his interest and appreciation.

This was my second trip to Greenland and my first time lugging around a big heavy medium format camera everywhere I went. Coming from a loud big city to what feels like the edge of the world, the beauty of the nature and the calm and slow tempo in the cities force you to slow down and breathe it all in. Greenland made an incredible impression on me and the 'arctic fever' really got to me. I hope I haven't been there for the last time!
Photo Credits: Martin Goltermann
Almost everything was memorable but something that I won't forget, was standing next to and looking into what is called 'the Old Women's Gorge' (Kællingekløften) where people would throw themselves into to end their lives when they got too old and/or would strain the community when food were scarce/insufficient. This was long before Christianity arrived on Greenland. That really put things into perspective and you appreciate how difficult life was here.
Photo Credits: Martin Goltermann II Kællingekløften & Midnight Sun over Disko Bay
When I was in Greenland in 2017, I got to see aurora borealis in all its glory dancing across the sky. That is something I will never forget, absolutely mesmerizing!
This time around I got to experience the midnight sun, which were so beautiful to look into the horizon and seeing the sun over the Disko Bay with Disko Island peaking through the clouds while being surrounded by complete silence. Quite a sight!

Martin has this to say to anyone planning their own Arctic trip:

Check how the conditions are around the time of year you plan to visit. Bring sunglasses, sun tan lotion and dress in layers! Most importantly - bring your camera! I recommend low ISO film, the sun can be quite harsh and the snow only brightens everything up even more.
I love how the photographs turned out, and I hope you get a chance to experience this part of the world for yourself, it is a must experience!

Thank you Martin for sharing your tips and experiences with us! Check out more of his work by following him on Instagram.

Want to take us Around the World in Analogue? Drop a line to aj.bajo@lomography.com with the subject Around the World in Analogue and share your unforgettable travels with the rest of the community! Read the guidelines here.

written by sylvann on 2022-09-21 #places #around-the-world #arctic #greenland #ilulissat #around-the-world-in-analogue #sisimiut-kangerlussuaq #martin-goltermann #disko-bay #disko-island #kaellingekloften

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