Interview with the journalist, TV director and Founder of Board Copenhagen Light Festival- Anders Kongshaug

Founder TV production company. Board member of Copenhagen Light Festival. Among most award winning TV-director’s in Denmark with my teams – most winning within tourist films.Founding board member of Copenhagen Light Festival. Responsible for the PR, nursing development and international relations with other grand lightfestivals.
Main owner of Kongshaug Productions, that makes vnr.TV (since 1996), Within 10 Minutes, and awardwinning random artistic short content-PR productions. The video news releases (vnr) can you see below are now seen by more than 100 mio. in average. I develope this all the time with a pioners spirit. Within 10 Minutes is the small films known from public transport in DK, about places along routes within nature, culture and history. The app with a map are showing where
the films are made, adding links to the best websites about it, that I find during research (Lonely Planer, Michelin, local news and touristorganisations). The app-map hosted 50.000 downloads during Copenhagen Light Festival, where all the artworks can be found from where you are.
Achievements I guess are also, that I in Denmark are the most nominated TV-director/producer and only winner of The Worlds Best Touristfilms. Still winning – 59
international PR- film awards.
Information taken from LINKEDIN PROFILE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anders-garde-kongshaug-24a92b11/?originalSubdomain=dk

Mr. Kongshaug, could you please tell us about the beginnings of your career as a producer and organizer of festivals?
It all started when I was young and trying to figure out what I wanted to do. As a creative person, it was difficult to determine the right path. Eventually, I realized my passion for visual picture-screening and decided to pursue a degree in film and video production at the university. After graduating, the landscape of television broadcasting in Denmark underwent significant changes, with the emergence of numerous TV channels. This prompted me to embark on my journey as a producer, initially working with MTV and producing videos. Subsequently, I moved to London and began working on international projects.

Could you elaborate on your role as a board member of the Copenhagen Light Festivals and your responsibilities in public relations, development, and international relations with other light festivals?
The Copenhagen Light Festivals is a prominent event in Europe, showcasing a multitude of light installations, each requiring substantial financial investment. As a result, we actively seek partnerships with other festivals, such as the Stockholm Nobel Light Festival, Oslo, Helsinki, Britain, and Italy. My role involves fostering communication and collaboration to share the costs and resources required for these spectacular events.


How has Kongshaug Productions evolved since its establishment in 1996, and what are the key projects and achievements that you are most proud of?
I take great pride in the transformation of Copenhagen’s global recognition since 1996. Through our extensive coverage of events, we have contributed to the city’s positive image, attracting increased support and funding. This collaboration between event producers and external TV stations has been instrumental in elevating Copenhagen’s profile on the world stage.
As a highly awarded TV director and producer, what do you attribute your success in creating award-winning tourist films and PR productions, and how do you continue to innovate in this field?
My success in producing award-winning tourist films and PR productions stems from my dedication to showcasing Denmark and other destinations in a competitive and compelling manner. By staying inspired and learning from international festivals, I constantly seek to enhance my video productions and promote the beauty of these locations.
Could you share more about your collaborations with BBC, CNN, and other international TV channels?
Since 1996, I have maintained ongoing communication with BBC, CNN, and other international TV channels, sharing my videos and stories. This established rapport has led to the utilization of my content in various competitions and broadcasts. I am proud of the recognition and exposure my work has received through these esteemed channels.

I understand that you have pioneered the concept of DRONE FILM or filming with drones. Could you provide further insights into this innovative approach?
Indeed, I introduced the concept of filming with drones, which has proven to be highly successful in capturing dynamic and engaging footage. By manipulating the speed of the films, I aim to create a visually captivating experience for the audience, the same as to a replay in a football match.I never produced a film who has the natural speed, because when you change the speed it will be distanced from everything and I think this aspect became more interesting to be watched.
You were honored at a prestigious tourism festival in Spain a couple of years ago. Could you elaborate on this recognition and its significance?
This recognition holds great significance as it was bestowed at one of the fourteen esteemed tourism film festivals worldwide. Every time you get an award to this festivals, you get it from one to teen points.I have reached from one point to five eight times, and once I been on the first place. Receiving awards at these festivals carries substantial weight, and I am proud to have been invited eight times, the most in Denmark. This acknowledgment reinforces Denmark’s standing as a top tourism destination.
In your opinion, where does Denmark stand on the global tourism map?
I perceive Copenhagen as an outstanding tourism destination, ranking at a high level of eight on the global tourism map. Denmark’s allure lies in its natural beauty and cultural experiences, making it an attractive destination for travelers.
How do you balance your professional pursuits with your personal interests, such as your background in breathing therapy and your passion for nature and solitude?
Maintaining a sense of peace and balance is essential amidst the busyness of professional endeavors. Engaging in breathing therapy and embracing nature allows me to find tranquility and harmony, which is crucial for personal well-being.

You recently became a part of the Danish Foreign Press Association. What does this achievement mean to you?
Being a member of the Danish Foreign Press Association is a significant achievement for me. It signifies a transition from persuading TV stations to accept my videos to being entrusted with producing content about Denmark for international audiences.
What are your future plans and aspirations for expanding the reach and impact of your productions, as well as your involvement in promoting cultural and artistic experiences through festivals and events?
My future plans involve expanding the Copenhagen Light Festival and strengthening the international network with TV news stations. Embracing emerging networks will enhance the distribution of my TV news, and I aim to utilize my footage in an app called Within 10 Minutes, offering a tourism product to hotel guests visiting Denmark. This endeavor aligns with my commitment to promoting cultural and artistic experiences through festivals and events.
Interview conducted by Andreea Arsene