Some places change completely once you see them from above. The World Port Center in Rotterdam is one of those places. Over the past two years, I joined two photography workshops on top of this iconic skyscraper—one in 2024 and one in 2025.

Both evenings couldn’t have been more different. One was defined by strong winds and limitations, the other by calm skies, perfect light, and a spectacular fireworks finale. Together, they became two very different but equally memorable photography experiences.

The 2024 Workshop — Learning to Work with Limitations

The 2024 workshop was more extensive than usual, mainly because there was no major public event taking place that day. We started with a short introduction about camera settings, followed by a simple but welcome meal: a sandwich and a bowl of soup. After that, everyone was eager to head upstairs.

As with both workshops, the building manager of the World Port Center was present. That evening, however, the wind played a leading role. You only really feel how strong it is once you’re standing at that height.

At first, conditions seemed manageable, but as the evening progressed the wind grew stronger and stronger. Eventually, the building manager had to decide to close one part of the rooftop shortly after the workshop had begun. This meant we could only photograph from the side of the building.

The downside was obvious: only a limited number of people could stand there at the same time. We had to rotate frequently, and you didn’t always have the best spot at the exact moment you wanted it. Still, it was a valuable reminder that photography isn’t about perfect conditions—it’s about making the most of what you’re given.

The 2025 Workshop — Sunset, Blue Hour and Fireworks

In January 2025, I noticed a new workshop announcement on Cameranu.nl during the World Port Days in Rotterdam. These days traditionally end with a large fireworks show, and that immediately convinced me to sign up.

This edition was organized a bit differently. We had to take care of our own food and meet at the World Port Center around 5:30 PM. I arrived just in time—finding parking nearby turned out to be difficult, so I reserved a spot near the Markthal. The only drawback: a 30-minute walk to the location.

At 6:00 PM, everyone was there and we went upstairs. This time, the weather was on our side. There was hardly any wind, which meant we could walk around freely and photograph from multiple viewpoints.

The sun slowly set in the direction of the Euromast, and we followed the light as Rotterdam transitioned into evening. Then came the blue hour—which, despite its name, often lasts much shorter than an hour. Sometimes it’s just ten quiet, perfect minutes where everything feels balanced.

Around 10:30 PM, the fireworks show finally began. It was an impressive, well-choreographed spectacle. Watching it from above, I was reminded why professional fireworks displays are in a completely different league—more refined, more controlled, and far more beautiful than anything private individuals could ever create.

Two Evenings, Two Perspectives

I’ll be sharing photos from both workshops here. Feel free to leave a comment and let me know what you think.

One evening was about adapting to restrictions and strong winds. The other was about patience, light, and timing. Both reminded me why I keep returning to the city with my camera: Rotterdam always looks different, depending on where you stand—and when you press the shutter.