Qatar National Library Staircase

This image was taken inside the Qatar National Library. To get here, it's best to drive or take a car, but you can also take public transportation (Qatar National Library via Green Line). For either option, input the "Qatar National Library" into the car's GPS and you'll arrive at the building. When entering the library, you'll walk into a big open area that's basically the center of the space. The area we used in this photo is along the back wall towards the left side. The camera operator will need to be standing on the raised platform that has rows of books so you can get this perspective of the model across the way. Note: You'll need permission to take photos in this building, so contact the library before your visit: https://www.qnl.qa/en.

The Qatar National Library is open year round, so it's available for use during any time of the year.

The more natural light coming in from outside, the better. We were at this location a bit late in the afternoon and the light was not as ideal as I hoped, but with the interior library lighting, it still worked!

Contact the library before visiting so you can book an appointment and get permission to photograph the building.

Since this is a library, it's important to be courteous and as quiet as possible for the people studying and reading.

Make sure to line up the shot so that the stairs become the center of composition. This will help to create a well-balanced image.

I recommend raising the camera about 15 feet into the air to achieve this aerial angle (long monopod required).

Before visiting, download a remote app on your smartphone so you can take photos on your camera from your phone.

If you don't have a pole, raise your perspective by holding your camera over head and then taking the photo from a higher viewpoint.

Have your subject stand in the middle of the staircase, about halfway up, so they serve as the focal point.

Try to create clean lines by using your camera's grid interface. It's a helpful tool that'll assist you in your composition.

Take advantage of the space by emphasizes the strong leading lines down the middle of the aisles.

There are rows and rows of books to explore, some with lots of colorful spines that can make for an interesting photo op.

After taking your photos, head to the library cafe. It's is a great spot for a quick refreshment!

The library is located in Qatar's Education City, which is an area developed by the Qatar Foundation. All within walking distance, you can find museums, satellite campuses for eight international universities, botanical gardens, restaurants and more.