Kirche am Steinhof
Perched on a hillside in Vienna's western suburbs, this Otto Wagner masterpiece is one of the finest examples of Viennese Jugendstil architecture in the world, and a rewarding subject for architectural photographers. The white facade, gilded details, and distinctive copper dome reward a wide-angle lens for full facade shots from the forecourt, while a longer focal length lets you isolate the ornate column angels by Othmar Schimkowitz and the intricate Kolo Moser mosaic windows. The elevated position of the church means you can also step back and use the surrounding trees and hillside paths to frame the dome rising above the canopy. Overcast days work surprisingly well here, keeping reflections off the metallic surfaces manageable and revealing the texture of the facade. The church is only open to visitors on Saturdays, so plan accordingly and arrive early before tour groups fill the forecourt. (Vienna, Austria)
