Qatar National Library Zig-Zags

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. Upon entering the Qatar National Library, walk forward toward the middle of the space. From there, you'll see this zigzag handicap ramp towards the right side of the back wall. The camera operator will need to be standing on the raised platform 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.

If needed, adjust your settings to fit the lighting conditions.

I recommend raising the camera 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 zig-zags, 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.

Check out the other staircase on the far left side of the library for another aerial photo op. The rows of bookcases also make for strong leading lines if you fancy an image that has lots of colorful book spines showing.

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.