location-photo
camera
len
Sony Alpha 1
Sony FE 24-240mm f/3.5-6.3 OSS Lens
Shutter Speed
1/320 sec
Aperture
f/4.5
Focal Length
52mm
ISO
2000

Qatar National Library Staircase

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@asenseofhuber
Whether you're looking to unwind with a new book or sip a cup of cozy coffee at the cafe, Qatar's National Library is one of the most aesthetically pleasing places to visit in Ar Rayyan. You'll be surrounded by all walks of life—from children picking out storybooks to college students studying for their exams. Head to this spot and then get your camera ready to capture the sleek architecture of this literary landmark.

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Moderate
Accessbility
Public Location

Hours

Mon-Thurs, Sat, Sun 8AM-8PM; Fri 8AM-4PM

Fee

Free

Pack

  • Normal lens (52mm)
  • Model
  • Telephoto lens (for various focal lengths)
  • Extendable camera poll (ours was 33ft)
  • Smartphone (to operate your camera remotely)

How to get there

N25° 19' 05.155"E51° 26' 30.0347"
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.

Tips

When to go

Best season

All months

Best time

Late afternoon
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!

Field tips

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.

Current weather

Ar-Rayyan
Clear
83o
F
Wed
84o
66o
Thu
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Fri
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Sat
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Sun
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Blue Hour

02:07
83o
Clear

Sunrise

02:30
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Clear

Golden Hour

14:19
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Clear

Sunset

14:49
83o
Clear

Do nearby

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.

Locations nearby

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