Chiesa della Gran Madre di Dio
Perched above the Po River on Turin's eastern bank, this neoclassical church is one of the city's most striking architectural landmarks, its columned portico and dome drawing an unmistakable parallel to Rome's Pantheon. The wide ceremonial staircase leading up to the entrance is one of the best compositional elements you have to work with, especially when combined with the two flanking statues of Faith and Religion as foreground anchors. Shoot from Corso Vittorio Emanuele II or from the bridge itself to capture the church framed by the river, particularly effective at golden hour when warm light hits the facade directly. A 24-70mm lens covers most angles well, from wide establishing shots to tighter details on the columns and pediment. Early morning keeps foot traffic low and gives you cleaner frames on the staircase. The elevated position also makes it a useful backdrop for portraits with the city and river below. (Turin, Piedmont, Italy)
