Qatar National Library Bookshelves

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. If you're facing the entrance, go all the way to the top left corner of the library to capture this perspective. I also recommend referencing the GPS coordinates once you're inside so you can have guidance on where I stood for this shot. Note: You'll need permission to take photos in this building, so contact the library before your visit: https://www.qnl.qa/en.

This interior shot of the bookshelves of the Qatar National Library can be photographed during any month of the year.

Because of the bookshelves, there will be some obstruction of light. I suggest taking a photo during the morning, midday, or late afternoon to ensure there is still some natural light coming into the frame.

Make sure to 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.

Since this composition focuses on strong leading lines, a wide-angle lens (29mm) will accentuate the space without distorting it.

Try using the bookcases in the library as leading lines in your composition. This will create symmetry and help to draw the viewer's eye into the center of the frame.

You can create more of a lifestyle shot by bringing a model into your shot. Have them grab a book and immerse themselves into the environment.

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.