Solo Photography Expedition in Ilulissat, Greenland

A Day of Quiet Contemplation

Today in Ilulissat was a day of quiet contemplation, a gentle pause amidst the grandeur of Greenland. Sometimes, the most profound experiences come not from grand adventures, but from the simple act of being present. I decided to embrace the slower pace, allowing myself to absorb the essence of this unique place without the pressure of constant activity. It was a day to savor the small moments and reflect on the journey so far.

The day began, as it has every day here, with breakfast at Hotel Hvide Falk. The spread was as delightful as ever, a mix of familiar and local offerings. I took my time, enjoying the strong coffee and the view of the harbor coming to life. Even though the weather forecast predicted partly cloudy skies, the early morning light cast a soft glow over the water, illuminating the bobbing fishing boats. I watched as they set out for the day, their silhouettes stark against the shimmering surface. It’s a comforting ritual, this daily departure, a reminder of the rhythm of life in this remote corner of the world.


Discover comfort at Hotel Hvide Falk, a pet-friendly haven in the heart of Ilulissat, with easy access to stunning Arctic landscapes and local attractions.

After breakfast, I resisted the urge to immediately head out with my camera. Instead, I decided to spend some time simply wandering through the town. Ilulissat is small and easily walkable, with colorful houses clinging to the rocky landscape. I strolled along the main street, popping into a few local shops. I found a small handicraft store selling intricate carvings made from bone and soapstone. Each piece told a story, a connection to the land and the traditions of the Inuit people. I picked up a small carving of a polar bear, a reminder of the Arctic wilderness that surrounds this town.

Sometimes, the most vivid photographs are those we capture not with a lens, but with our hearts.

Lunch was back at the hotel. I opted for a light meal, a simple sandwich and a cup of soup. The dining room was quiet, a peaceful respite from the cool August air outside. I sat by the window, watching the clouds drift across the sky. The light shifted constantly, transforming the landscape in subtle yet profound ways. It’s a photographer’s dream, this ever-changing light, but today I was content to simply observe, to let the beauty of the moment wash over me.

The afternoon brought a gentle rain, a soft patter against the windows of my room. I decided to use the time to catch up on some writing, to reflect on my experiences so far. I wrote about the icebergs, of course, those colossal sculptures of ice that dominate the landscape. But I also wrote about the people, the warmth and resilience of the Greenlandic community. And I wrote about the silence, the profound sense of peace that settles over you in this remote place.

As the day wore on, the rain subsided, and a sliver of sunlight peeked through the clouds. I decided to take a short walk along the coast, just to breathe in the fresh, clean air. The landscape was transformed, the colors intensified by the rain. The tundra was a vibrant green, dotted with wildflowers in shades of purple and yellow. The icebergs in the distance seemed to glow with an ethereal light.

Dinner was, again, at the Hotel Hvide Falk. I decided to try the Greenlandic buffet, a selection of local delicacies. There was dried fish, smoked reindeer, and a variety of other dishes I couldn’t quite identify. It was an adventure for the palate, a chance to taste the flavors of Greenland. The food was hearty and flavorful, a testament to the resourcefulness of the people who have made this land their home.

After dinner, I sat in the hotel lounge, sipping a glass of wine and watching the sunset. The sky was ablaze with color, a fiery spectacle that painted the icebergs in hues of orange and pink. It was a breathtaking sight, a reminder of the raw, untamed beauty of this place. As the light faded, I felt a sense of gratitude, a deep appreciation for the opportunity to experience this remarkable corner of the world.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore more actively. I'm considering a boat trip further into the Icefjord, or perhaps a hike to Sermermiut to see the ancient Inuit settlements. But for tonight, I am content to simply be here, to soak in the silence and the beauty of Ilulissat. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are those that take place within, in the quiet spaces of our own hearts.

I also made sure to confirm my transportation to the airport for my departure in a few days. While I'm sad to leave, I know that the memories of Ilulissat will stay with me forever. I am looking forward to seeing Liam again back in Banff, and sharing all my photos and stories with him.

It's funny, I almost forgot to pack extra memory cards for my camera, and thermal gloves. Lesson learned: always double-check the essentials, especially when venturing into the Arctic! It would have been a disaster to run out of space for all these stunning landscapes. Luckily, I was able to purchase some at a local store.

As I reflect on my time here, I realize that Ilulissat has offered me more than just stunning photographs; it has given me a chance to reconnect with myself, to find peace in the silence, and to appreciate the simple beauty of the natural world. And for that, I am eternally grateful.