Nieuwe Achtergracht Canal at the University of Amsterdam
Nieuwe Achtergracht is a quieter canal than Amsterdam's more touristy waterways, lined with a mix of 19th-century brick facades and university buildings that give it a scholarly, unhurried character. The tree-lined banks create natural framing, and the still water regularly produces clean mirror reflections of the architecture above. Position yourself low on one of the stone bridges and shoot down the canal length to emphasize the symmetry and draw the eye into the frame; a 24-35mm lens works well for capturing both the reflection and the sky above. Early morning is the best time to visit, when light is soft, the canal surface is undisturbed, and you will have the bridges mostly to yourself. In autumn the overhanging trees add warm color that contrasts nicely with the dark water. The canal is easily reached on foot or by bike and the banks offer flat, stable ground to work from. (Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands)
